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January 24, 2013 Find us on

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

INSIDE: Check out The Gazette’s complete guide to the perfect wedding P15

Soccer:

Swords sweep to FAI Youths cup win in Malahide Page 30

Hurling:

Fingal upbeat despite DCU loss in opener Page 31 and 32

Parties clash on property tax hit  NATALIE BURKE

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

JOBS BOOST: Taoiseach announces 78 new Tayto Park positions Page 4

LOCAL Labour TD Brendan Ryan has branded claims made by Fianna Fail Senator Darragh O’Brien as “hypocrisy”, after a war of words broke out this week between the two local representatives.

The row started when Senator O’Brien claimed that Labour and Fine Gael have failed to realise the

huge impact the property tax will have on Fingal residents.

The claims come in the aftermath of a recent survey carried out by the Irish League of Credit Unions, which showed that 1.6 million working adults are surviving on €50 or less after paying their bills each month.

Full Story on Page 2

Unforgettable Ne-Yo: Star strikes a cool note in Swords

THE WRIGHT Venue played host

to R’n’B superstar Ne-Yo recently as he was in town to officially launch Malibu Red in Ireland.

The star gave an exclusive performance of his greatest hits including Closer, Let Me Love You, Because of You and his

brand new single, Burning Up, the song he penned especially for Malibu Red. The crowd of lucky winners to the event were brimming with excitement and were not disappointed as Ne-Yo brought the house down with an unforgettable performance.

2 swords gazette 24 January 2013

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

rebuttal Labour hits ‘hypocrisy’ of claim

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 Sales: 01 - 6010240

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Fianna Fail Senator Darragh O’Brien: Launched an argument

Labour TD Brendan Ryan has branded the tax issue claims as

against the Labour and Fine Gael parties

“hypocrisy”

Ability to pay home tax is being ignored – FF

A war of words has broken out between two local representatives this week after claims that the Government has failed to address issues relating to people’s inability to pay the family home tax.

Fianna Fail Senator Darragh O’Brien has launched an argument against the Labour and Fine Gael parties, claiming that they have failed to realise the huge impact the property tax will have on Fingal residents.

Reacting to the comments, local Labour TD Brendan Ryan has branded the claims as “hypocrisy”.

 natalie burke nburke@gazettegroup.com

The claims come in the aftermath of a recent survey carried out by the Irish League of Credit Unions, which showed that 1.6 million working adults are surviving on €50 or less after paying their bills each month.

Senator O’Brien stated that the results show “the folly of the Government’s new family home tax which will hit thousands of homeowners in

Fingal”.

“Homeowners simply don’t have the money to pay a tax on the family home. Ability to pay is a major issue and it’s just being ignored by the Government.

“Government TDs in Fingal, Minister Reilly, Deputy Alan Farrell and Deputy Brendan Ryan pushed this tax through despite the fact that homeowners in Dublin will be paying up to five and six times the level of tax that will be applied to the same modest homes around the country,” he continued.

“If Government TDs in Fingal now genuinely

believe the property tax is unfair, they must admit their mistake in voting for it and take action to help homeowners,” he concluded.

In response, Deputy Ryan said he found the attack on himself and other members of the current Government “incredible”.

“Senator O’Brien and Fianna Fail are engaging in a total optics exercise and pursuing the most cynical form of opposition politics. The fact remains that it was the Fianna Fail government of which Darragh O’Brien was a member which had to bring in the

IMF, and which signed us up to a four-year programme which included a property tax.

“The fact is, I was due to speak on this matter with respect to the helping hard-pressed homeow ners during the Budget debate, but I was denied the opportunity due to cynical timewasting tactics from the opposition. It’s no wonder that politics is being discredited in the public mind with this kind of hypocrisy. If Fianna Fail want to regain the trust of the people of Fingal, then they’ll need more than cynical statements and exercises in optics.”

Jobs boost for new DCU campus Dublin North will enjoy an economic boost over the next five years, after a massive 500 jobs were announced for the new DCU campus.

The Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Richard Bruton TD, officially opened the DCU Innovation Campus this week, which will play a significant role in

increasing green economy growth in the cleantech, or environmentally-friendly technology, sector in the north Dublin area.

The new campus will be located on the Old Finglas Road, Glasnevin, and 200 jobs will be initially created in the first 18 months. It is hoped the establishment of the campus will lead to the creation of thousands of

jobs in the years ahead.

Local TD Terence Flanagan (FG) welcomed the announcement, saying the campus would play a “pivotal role” in the growth of the cleantech sector. “One of the Government’s main priorities is to create jobs and by driving growth in the green economy this will be achieved,” he said.

24 January 2013 swords gazette 3

reading

warning: registration needed by February 1 for grant assistance

eBooks a big hit at library

Septic tank alert as deadline nears  natalie burke nburke@gazettegroup.com

Fingal County Council is reminding all its citizens that the closing date for septic tank registration is looming.

To be eligible for grant assistance, local residents must register their septic tank systems

by Friday, February 1.

The cost of registering is a one-off fee of €50.

Once your system is registered, a process of inspections will start during 2013, and residents will be notified in writing by the local authority in advance of an inspection.

If, for any reason your system fails the inspection, there may be a

grant available to you.

To qualify for these grants you must have registered by February 1.

Anyone who fails to register may be liable for a fine of up to €5,000.

The new registration and inspection system for septic tanks and other domestic wastewater treatment systems was introduced by the Water Services (Amendment) Act of 2012 in order to protect water supplies, protect the environment and to protect health.

Registration The registration can be paid online at www. protectourwater.ie or by a cheque/postal order.

bank draft payable to Protect Our Water by post to Protect Our Water, PO Box 12204, Dublin 7.

Application forms are available from local authorities, local libraries or by ringing LoCall 1890 800 800.

Fingal County Council County Hall is located in Swords at the junction of Main Street, Nor th Street and Seatown Road, and the Civic Offices are at Grove Road, Blanchardstown, directly opposite the Blanchardstown Centre cinema entrance.

The opening hours of both cash offices are 9.30am to 3.30pm, Monday to Friday.

Team spirit: Macra and Dairy Council supply thrilling finals the all-ireland finals of Macra’s National Dairy Council Indoor Soccer competitions were held on Sunday, January 13 in Gormanston College, Co Meath. Thirty-five teams battled it out for the coveted All-Ireland titles.

Pictured at the event are the team from North County Macra, Co Dublin (back from left) Aisling Baronwall, Michelle Morris, Aisling Kenny, Kelly Morris, (front from left) Niamh Amerlynck, Fiona Gallagher, Clodagh Baronwall, Agatha White and Grace Dowling with Macra National President, Alan Jagoe. More information is available on the macra.ie website, along with details of upcoming events.

The use of electronic books almost doubled over the Christmas period in libraries across Fingal.

According to the library services, the Fingal libraries were delighted that so many borrowers enjoyed the library’s wide range of ebooks during the recent festive season.

“Throughout the year we will continue to add to the wide selection of ebooks, both fiction and non-fiction, that are already available for children, teenagers and adults,” a spokesperson said.

Library users can check out and download books using many devices including a PC, Mac, iPhone, iPad, Sony eReader and more. For information, log on to www.fingalcoco. ie/library.

4 swords gazette 24 January 2013

FastNews

economy Food industry ‘vital’ to recovery charity:

football match

Free nutrition workshops to be held in Fingal area

Gardai take on local legends

Two nutrition workshops will be held through the Fingal Parenting Initiative with public health nutritionist Gaye Godkin, in two locations in Fingal over the coming weeks.

The workshops will be free to attend with limited places, and the Dublin North workshop will be held in the Carnegie Court Hotel in Swords on Wednesday, February 6 from 7 to 9pm, while the second workshop will be held in Dublin 15.

To register for attendance, call 01 807 7660.

 natalie burke

Search for missing Rush man in its second month The search for missing Rush man Paul Byrne is now entering its second month, with efforts failing to provide any clues to the young man’s disappearance.

The 24-year-old man was last seen at approximately 3pm on Christmas Day, on Sandy Lane in Rush.

Recent searches for the local included a major trawl of the coastline in the Rush area by the Skerries Coast Guard.

Paul is described as being 5’5’’ in height with blue eyes and short brown hair and was last seen wearing a short black jacket with a Ralph Lauren logo on the left side.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Balbriggan Garda Station on 01 8020510 or call the Garda Confidential Telephone Line on 1800 666 111.

The announcement of almost 80 new jobs at Tayto Park was made by An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny

Taoiseach announces 78 new Tayto Park jobs  Natalie Burke nburke@gazettegroup.co

Almost 80 new jobs were announced this week for Tayto Park in Ashbourne.

The announcement was made by An Taoiseach Enda Kenny, along with founder of Largo Foods, Ray Coyle.

The 78 new jobs are set to bring the total number of people employed by Largo Foods and Tayto Park to 798. According to Coyle, he was delighted to welcome the Taoiseach to what he described as “a positive news story”.

“Little did I envisage, four years ago when we started building Tayto Park, that in two short years we would have welcomed 750,000 people to Tayto Park and all because people showed

some interest in the bison we kept in the same field,” he said.

“We have spent €15 million to date in developing Tayto Park, and will spend another €2.1 million this year. We see this as an investment, not only in this great Irish family attraction, but also in the people who work here.”

Speaking at the official announcement, the Taoiseach said: “I’m delighted that Tayto, as an Irish food icon, continues to grow strongly with the addition of 78 new jobs.

Ireland’s food industry is a vital part of our domestic economy and is central to our exportorientated recovery. In addition, I’m delighted that Tayto Park continues to attract in more visitors, especially in this year of The Gathering.”

Tayto Park, set on 55 acres, hosts a variety of playgrounds, restaurants, shops, animal areas and open plains hosting rare creatures such as ocelots and Amur leopards. With only 30 Amur leopards left alive in the wild and 300 in captivity, the two at Tayto Park are part of a worldwide conservation programme in which Tayto Park is actively involved.

Popular attractions in Tayto Park include the Eagle Sky Adventure Zone, the Tayto Sky Walk and the largest four-line zip line in Europe, which opened in 2012.

The Largo Foods factory in Ashbourne is less than 100m from Tayto Park enabling a fun crisp factory tour to be part of the entry fee to Tayto Park. Close to €3.4 m illion was invested in

plant and equipment for the business in 2012 with €3.2 million projected to be invested in 2013.

We l c o m i n g t h e announcement, Frank Ryan, chief executive of Enterprise Ireland, said: “Enterprise Ireland has worked closely with Largo Foods in supporting its strategic investment and continued international growth.

“This is a highly ambitious and innovative company and its success underpins Ireland’s international reputation in food innovation and capability. Food is Ireland’s number one export sector and critically important to our economy and to exportled growth, and we look forward to continuing to work with and support Largo Foods as they grow their business.”

Gardai will take on some “local legends” next week when a special charity fundraiser is held in Balbriggan.

The fundraiser will see members of An Garda Siochana from the Balbriggan district take on a team of local residents, the Balbriggan Legends in a charity football match on Sunday, February 3.

Gardai based in Balbriggan from the uniform, detective, drugs and policing units will play a team of representatives from local businesses, teachers, spor ts and community groups from the Balbriggan area in the match, which will be held at 3pm in Glebe North Football Club.

In memory

The fundraiser will be held in aid of the Tania McCabe Foundation, which was set up in memory of Tania, who died after giving birth to twins, one of whom also passed away.

Adam, the surviving twin, spent a considerable amount of time in the care of the Special Care Baby Unit in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda and Unit 8 of Holles Street Maternity Hospital in Dublin.

The funds raised will go towards buying equipment for these units. Tania McCabe served as a Garda sergeant in Santry Garda Station, and her husband Aidan McCabe is a sergeant in the Balbriggan District.

24 January 2013 swords gazette 5

crime €10,000 stolen from Costcutter

Three men held following armed robbery  natalie burke

nburke@gazettegroup.com

Three men remain in custody this week following an armed robbery that took place in Lusk village last weekend.

The men were arrested as part of an investigation into an armed robbery which took place at the Costcutter shop and post office in Lusk Village. The robbery took place just after 10pm on Saturday, January 19, and the men were arrested moments after leaving the premises with close to €10,000 in cash.

It is believed the three men in question entered the shop wearing balaclavas at approximately 10.05pm, armed with what appeared to be a firearm. They proceeded to threaten staff members who were on duty at the time before fleeing with almost €10,000.

Later, the three men, aged in their mid-20s to late 40s, were apprehended by detectives from Balbriggan Garda station just as they were leaving the local shop. Recent media reports stated that the men locked themselves in their getaway vehicle before being arrested by the gardai.

Seized

According to a spokesperson for the gardai, two firearms were recovered, along with all of the property taken from the premises. A car was also seized at the scene.

“The men are currently being detained under section 30 of the Offences Against the State Act, 1939, at Swords, Raheny and Clontarf Garda station,” a spokesperson for the gardai told the Gazette.

No customers or members of staff were injured

10th annual theatre fest for Rush Dramatic Society Rush Dramatic Society will be holding their 10th annual drama festival at the Millbank Theatre next month.

The festival will run from Thursday, February 21 until Saturday, March 2, and will feature a host of very different plays over what will be a 10-day event.

The plays to be performed by the talented local society will include The God Of Carnage

by Yasmina Reza and Playboy of the Western World, by JM Synge, among others.

Shows will start at 8pm each night and tickets are priced at €12 or €10 concession. For more information, log on to www.millbanktheatre.ie.

Got a story?

One of the men in custody is being held at Swords Garda Station

during the raid and no firearms were discharged.

T he shop remained closed the day following the incident as gardai carried out examinations at the scene but has since reopened. The matter currently remains under investigation.

The robbery comes eight years after elite gardai from the Emergency Response Unit shot dead two armed robbers, Colm Griffin (33) and Eric Hopkins (24), during a post office raid in Lusk.

Those involved in the 2005 raid had been under surveillance after intelligence allowed gardai to hear about the planned robbery in advance.

The Lusk Post Office is on the same premises as the shop targeted last weekend, forming part of the same business.

Safety spot checks at Ridgewood Close Fingal County Council are to carry out spot checks at a local housing estate in an effort to assess potential safety concerns.

Concerns were raised recently by local councillor Darragh Butler (FF), who asked the council to investigate the issues of dangerous parking and speeding in the local Ridgewood Close housing estate, and to consider the implementation of ramps and other traffic calming measures.

While the council has confirmed that funding has not been identified for such

FastNews

measures at this time, and the location of Ridgewood Close is not considered a high priority for ramps, the traffic section of FCC will investigate the concerns raised.

“The placement of double yellow line markings at such locations generally would set an unsustainable precedent at a time of significant financial constraints.

The traffic section will undertake to continue to carry out spot checks within the estate in order to further assess safety concerns,” a spokesperson for the council said.

Call our news team on 60 10 240 or email news@gazettegroup.com

6 swords Gazette 24 January 2013

gazetteGALLERIES

Nisa Pope, Andrea Ward and Megan Daly

Ne-Yo recently took to the stage at The Wright Venue

smooth: ne-yo strikes a cool note

The Wright party

Debbie McQuillan and Janine Murphy

Mary Charmasa and Falone Mukundyi

T

HE Wright Venue had an extra touch of glamour recently, when international superstar Ne-Yo arrived to officially launch the new Malibu Red drink in Ireland.

The Grammy award-winning singer took to the stage to get the party going, with his

Fiona Allen and Louise Barry

hit songs such as Closer, Let Me Love You, Because Of You, and Burning up.

Models including Rachel Wallace, Faye Rooney and Emma Waldron attended the event, alongside the limited number of guests who had the chance to meet Ne-Yo backstage after his performance.

Jim Jones and Carolynn McCarthy

24 January 2013 swords Gazette 7

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

Diego Del Bello and Noreena Hannigan. Pictures: Una Williams

taking the lead: bootcamp workouts to help Dogs Trust

B

odyShape Fitness Bootcamp is hosted charity workouts in Swords, Malahide, Balbriggan and Portmarnock on Saturday, January 19 in aid of Dogs Trust. With many people wanting to get fit this New Year, the workshop came at the perfect time and received plenty of local interest. Bootcamps were also held at Malahide Rugby Club, St George’s National School in Balbriggan and St Colmcille’s GAA Club in Swords. For more information, visit www.bodyshapefitnessbootcamp.com.

Eamonn Flemming

Steven Bateson and Tania Zorillo

Emily White and Suzanne Conway Eve Stafford and Stephen Spade

Rachel Wallace and Faye Rooney

Paddy Kelly and Maria Cruise

8 swords gazette 24 January 2013

council: plan for year ahead

entertainment Malahide mum Roz Flanagan on her

‘I enjoyed Wives and

First sitting for new chamber  natalie burke

The newly-elected council members of Fingal Dublin Chamber met for the first time recently to plan for the year ahead.

It was the first sitting of the chamber for their members since the annual general meeting in November, and the gathering saw the new council elect the new officer board for 2013.

T he new chamber council is made up of 23 members of local community groups and businesses, including Tony Lambert, company secretary and chief executive of Fingal Dublin Chamber; Sarah Bohan of Engage Ireland; Bryan Hourigan from Bank of Ireland, Swords; Ian Hunter of the Pavilions Shopping Centre; Lucia O’Riordan of AIB Swords, and Tara Shortall of Home Instead Senior Care.

“Following a ver y successful year in 2012, the chamber is setting out its plans for another year of serving the business community in the Fingal/nor th Dublin region,” said the new chamber president, Siobhan Moore.

“There will be networking events for businesses in all sectors and sizes to meet and develop rewarding business relationships. The chamber is also committed to growing the membership throughout the region and will be welcoming all business men and women who wish to join us on our journey,” she said.

Those who want to get involved can contact Tony Lambert on 890 0977.

The Gazette speaks to Roz Flanagan on what it’s really like to adapt to life in front of the camera  natalie burke nburke@gazettegroup.com

Malahide mum, Roz Flanagan

With TV3 still reeling from the aftermath of the feisty Dublin Wives, which dominated television screens across the nation in recent weeks and took a turbulent episode of Midweek to its knees, the outcome of the reality TV show is most certainly the topic of stirring conversation at most coffee meetings this week.

The second season of the series saw Lisa Murphy, Jo Jordan, Virginia Macari, Danielle Meagher and Malahide resident, Roz Flanagan once again showcase their lives and – in some cases – some significant life moments during the four short episodes.

Despite having had a hectic schedule since the show was aired last week, mum-of-four Roz Flanagan took time out to talk to the Gazette and spill the beans on why the girls won’t speak to botox doctor Danielle, how it feels to reveal a life’s secret on live television, and how easy it was to adapt to life in front of the lens.

“I really enjoyed doing Dublin Wives and I have no regrets. It was fun – most of the time,” Roz explained.

“The highlight of the whole show was definitely going to New York.

I thought my daughter Melissa wouldn’t be able to come as she was moving to Australia, but then it turned out she could, so I was delighted. It was a really nice family holiday with all my girls, as well as my girlfriends.”

Despite the country being in the depths of recession, it wasn’t long before viewers were involved in the glamorous lives of the five Dublin women. There were highlights, which included a trip to New York, a romantic engagement and new career ventures, but there were also

“The first time I said it, halfway through the programme, I was getting so many tweets and text messages and my phone was buzzing. Some people even said to me that I helped them, so I’m delighted I did it. It doesn’t have to limit your future – it doesn’t define you in any way at all,” she said.

One of the biggest dramas of the show was the tension between Danielle, who owns a botox clinic in Dublin, and the other four girls, which originated during an argument in Season One. For

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‘I’d nearly rather eat my Louboutins than talk about her’

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Malahide mum, Roz Flanagan on the tension between Botox doctor Danielle and the other four girls from Season One of Dublin Wives

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moments that proved even hard for viewers to watch. During the season, Malahide mum Roz revealed her own experience of child abuse.

“Obviously, the hardest for me was talking about my whole personal experience. It’s not something a lot of people would talk about, but I felt that it was important. It’s part of my work with CARI and what I do with charity, so it was important to me. But I’ve got amazing support.

Roz, however, the turmoil hasn’t weakened.

“To be honest, I’d nearly rather eat my Louboutins than talk about her,” she admitted. “It has gotten worse. It’s just awful and I don’t think it will get any better. Words fail me in how, why and what. I get on really well with Jo and Lisa and got very close to Virginia during filming, but what Danielle said about her in the papers was just horrible. If you read something that’s very untrue,

24 January 2013 swords gazette 9

R1

hectic schedule after the TV3 reality show

being in Dublin have no regrets’ it’s not nice. I don’t think it was fair and that’s my opinion,” she said.

It seems that being on a reality show can reveal a lot of truths and Roz admitted that having the TV cameras following her around her Malahide home was something she almost grew used to.

Supportive

“The first morning the cameras came to my house and followed me for the day, I didn’t know how I was going to cope.

It’s weird as you get used to them and build up a little bit of a bond with the camera guys. They were lovely and were very supportive of me the whole time I was filming about myself and the whole issue. You nearly got used to them being there!”

W hile the show received some negativity, Roz says she has received only messages of support from her friends and neighbours in the area.

“I’ve had nothing but support from all my friends and neighbours.

I love living in Malahide, people are genuinely really nice and I get on well with them. All my friends have really been there for me as well.

“I was in the village today and a lady I didn’t even know told me that she loved me on the show. I’ve got a lot of responses like that. I suppose nobody is going to come up in the street and say anything negative to you, are they? Some people love you and some people hate you, but I try not to look at anything like that.”

With the second series wrapped up, it seems that

FastNews

Community invited to take part in Climb for Concern Over the next few months, Concern is inviting members of the local community to climb the highest peak in all four provinces as part of the Climb for Concern. The fundraising event will start with Mweelrea on March 2, which at 814 metres, is the highest mountain in Connacht.

Open to people of all fitness levels, climbers are asked to raise €50 for Concern, the charity that works to eliminate poverty, and pay €25 as a registration fee. On Friday, March 1, a bus will leave Mullingar and travel through Dublin to bring climbers to Westport.

Accommodation is available at The Helm in Westport, with two nights’ bed and breakfast with one evening meal priced at just €75.

Gazette readers are guaranteed a great weekend for an all-in price of €150. To find out more information or to book your place, contact Zoe Holyoak at 01 4178028 or email zoe.holyoak@ concern.net.

Fingal Women in Business Network event

Clockwise from bottom left: Lisa Murphy, Virginia Macari, Danielle Meagher, Roz Flanagan and Jo Jordan

while a third series isn’t quite on the cards yet, it’s not something Roz is writing off just yet.

“I would definitely do it all over again, I have

to say, it has been fun.

And ner ve-wracking and daunting and all those things but if you never take a risk in life, you’ll never achieve

anything. I made a lot of new friends and met a lot of lovely new people and I’m at a stage in life now, with my girls all grown up, that it’s

just something different that I never thought I’d ever do. It wasn’t on my to-do list but it has been fun and I’ve definitely made the most of it.”

The Fingal Women in Business Network will be hosting their first event of the New Year on Wednesday, February 6.

The event, entitled Developing Your 2013 Sales Strategy, will see guest speaker Nicola O’Neill, managing director of Harvest Resources Ltd, a leading people development specialists, join the event to provide guidance and insight in the area of sales and business development in 2013.

Nicola will discuss the most important activities and priorities for a Strategic Sales Plan.

The event will be held at 6.30pm on February 6, at the Carlton Airport Hotel on the Old Airport Road. To find out

more about this event or request a booking form, contact network manager Eve Bulman, on 087 649 7036, or email wib@fingalceb. ie.

Investigation into flooding problems Following concerns raised by residents living in Holywell, Fingal County Council (FCC) have confirmed that flooding problems are currently being investigated in the area.

On foot of a complaint made by a Holywell resident in November 2012, FCC stated that a visual inspection was recently carried out on the area and that a consultant is currently investigating the issues.

According to FCC, the inspectorate division is awaiting the resulting report which will address trenching as a possible solution.

10 swords gazette 24 January 2013

gazetteGALLERY

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

Elaine O’Brien and Ciara Lambert

Helen Dwyer and Valerie Roe

Christine Urban and Ally Morron. Pictures: Una Williams

That’s a wrap, as TV show ends on a high D

andelion on Stephen’s Green hosted the official wrap party for the cast and crew of the hit TV show Dublin Wives recently.

The wives, or shall we say wannabe wives, as only one of them is married, Lisa Murphy, Virginia Macari, Jo

Jordan, Roz Flanagan and Danielle Meagher were all in attendance and looking as glam and sparkly as ever.

The group of five opinionated, ambitious and very glamorous young women had the nation fascinated with their fluffy antics around Ireland and beyond.

Lisa Murphy, Roz Flanagan, Virginia Macari, Jo Jordan and Danielle Meagher

Jane Lundon, Deirdre Lundon and Melina Skvortsova

Patricia Olufemi and Joanne Kimani

Emma English and Bernie Cafolla

24 January 2013 Gazette 11

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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

dance ireland: honouring European dance

Putting best foot forward to mark coming of age Dance Ireland is celebrating its 21st anniversary over the next two months with a series of performances which honour a variety of European dance traditions to mark Ireland’s EU Presidency.

Made In Dublin is the first part of Dance Ireland 21; a year-long programme of dance events to celebrate the organisation’s anniversary.

Dance Ireland will

showcase the Irish dance community throughout the year with a programme including live per formances, film, photography, talks and more.

Made In Dublin is a week long introduction to this year of dance and is a season of performances to be held in the Project Arts Centre and the Abbey Theatre by international and national artists in Dance House

over the last six years.

The season kicks off on January 28 with Body and Forgetting by the Liz Roche Company, who are based in Ireland.

Others lined up are Portuguese artist, Claudia Dias performing her solo show, Vontade de Ter Vontade; a triple bill of Irish dancers Liv O’Donoghue and John Scott Dance and Italian dancer Elena Giannotti; French troupe La

Zampa, Austria’s Loose Collective and many more triple and double bills featuring dancers from Spain, Ireland and Cyprus, all located at the Project Arts Centre.

Tickets for Made In Dublin performances can be purchased at Project Arts Centre at www. projectartscentre.ie or by ringing 01 8819613/4 and the full programme of events is available at www.danceireland/21.

Dancer Liv O’Donoghue will perform. Pictures: Enrico Fuga

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12 Gazette 24 January 2013

dublinlife

Ellie Mooney (five) and Gavin DeRoste (five) launch Engineers’ Week

diary

Sparking enthusiasm for engineering This year’s Engineers’ Week, an annual campaign to promote engineering as a career, is set to take place from February 25 until March 3.

T his year ’s event, themed Bringing Dreams To Life, and organised

by Engineers Ireland, is focused on showcasing the possibilities a career in engineering can offer.

John Power, director general of Engineers Ireland, recently called on enterprise and academia for their full support: “Engineers are involved in so many exciting and

essential roles – they build cities, they design medical devices, they create entertainment products and much more besides. Without the input of engineers, many great ideas would remain fixed in the imagination and never become a reality.”

Engineers Ireland is asking businesses and colleges to open for public tours, to run engineering-related workshops or activities or to develop an initiative of their own.

Those who wish to participate are invited to visit www.engineersweek.ie.

the only game in town If you have not gone to see GAME: The Future of Play in the Science Gallery in Trinity College, you still have a few days to see this fascinating exhibition before it closes this weekend.

The free exhibition features work by worldrenowned game designers such as Eric Zimmerman and architect Nathalie Pozzi.

GAME offers you the chance to get directly involved in the future of gaming as many hitherto

unrevealed games are available for the visitor to sample. Not only that, but there is also an opportunity for avid gamers to design their own game with John Healey and Game Design Lab. Once you realise your own creation, you can then upload it onto the Science Gallery’s GAME Lab PCs for other visitors to play.

GAME runs until January 20 in the Science Gallery, Trinity College from 12 noon to 8pm on weekdays, and from 12 noon to 6pm at the weekend.

boost in toy donations The bleak economic outlook did nothing to dampen Irish people’s giving spirit over Christmas as the 2012 RTE 2fm Toy Appeal for St Vincent de Paul in association with SuperValu saw some 65,000 toys donated and distributed to families.

The number shows an increase of 9,000 on the 56,000 toys collected during last year’s appeal and the toys donated have been calculated to have a value of over €1 million.

Led by 2fm presenters, including Ryan Tubridy, Hector O hEochagain, Ruth Scott, Colm Hayes and Larry Gogan, 2fm Toy Appeal’s stated wish for 2012 was “that every child got a toy for Christmas”.

Tubridy said: “The figures this year speak volumes about the generosity of the Irish public.

“Even during times as tough as these, people have dug deep and helped to put smiles on the faces of children who might otherwise have had nothing to wake up to on Christmas morning”

24 January 2013 GAZETTE 13

FEATURE

The voice artistry of Winslow back in Ireland  ROB HEIGH

IMITATION is the sincerest form of flattery, so Michael Winslow must be the sincerest man on the planet.

The vocal gymnast who leapt to fame in the Police Academy movies in the 1980s is coming back to embark on a two-week tour of Ireland in the next few weeks, including a date with Dublin at Whelan’s on Sunday, February 2.

Currently on the east coast of the US, the Gazette asked Michael how and where he got his start in comedy: “I started by watching every old T V show I could to do with comedy, and the Saturday

morning cartoons on TV. The voice artistry and sound effects were what appealed to me – they were cool, man. I started adding my own sound effects, putting extra noises to the cartoons, and Charlie Chaplin movies.”

The youngest of six children in a US Air Force family who travelled from air base to air base as Michael grew up, the travelling lifestyle was something he was used to from an early age. “It was tough, and we travelled a lot, I had to make new friends all the time – or make up new friends, or dogs, or cats, or trucks, any thing that would keep me occupied.“

Eventually, he moved to Los Angeles to pursue his career in comedy, where there were some hard lessons to learn before he reached where he wanted to be.

On stage

“Well, to begin with, I wouldn’t recommend hitch-hiking to California, not even to Navy Seals! And I wouldn’t recommend being homeless, either, which I was for a while. But I knew what I wanted to do, and so I would try to get on stage at every comedy club there was – the Improv, the Comedy Store.

“I was starting at the bottom and working my way up. I was lucky

to get onto [classic US talent show] The Gong Show, with Chuck Barris, and from winning the show, I could afford a car to live in – so I was mobile homeless! That gave me the chance to drive to other clubs and get sets there.”

Michael’s career went from strength to strength, eventually being cast as Larvelle Jones in Police Academy. Since then, he has used his skills in classic movies like Gremlins, Back To The Future, as well as numerous TV shows.

We asked Michael what he would call his brand of comedy – “My wife calls me a voicetrumentalist, so that’s close enough.”

American actor and comedian Michael Winslow at work (above) and as Larvelle Jones in Police Academy

F i n a l l y, M i c h a e l explained what it is that he most likes about coming to Ireland, a regular slot on his

stand-up tours.

“What I like most is that Ireland in terms of comedy is so openminded, and I get the

chance to work with local musicians. For me, my job is to help everyone forget about the rent for an hour.”

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14 Gazette 24 January 2013

dublinlife

business

finance: each stage of living needs a plan

Use ‘15 seconds’ to save for your life I’VE been at my wits’ end trying to turn financialplanning theory into something a bit more practical.

What I have come up with is a series of checklists, each designed to summarise the sort of things one should be thinking about at different stages of one’s life.

Here is the 15-second version of the 15-minute guide to sorting out your finances: 1. Decide what you want to achieve, and over

what period.

2. Work out what action you need to take to achieve it.

3. Take the required action.

4. Monitor the results and change your tactics if things are not going according to plan.

A big part of this process is going to involve choosing the right financial products for your needs.

A few words of warning: think carefully before you buy any financial

The founders of PlayFit, Liz Crotty and Mark Sweeney

product because someone has told you that you should.

A good example of this is the way mortgage brokers and lenders push life cover on people without partners and/or dependants.

I mean, why worry about paying off your mortgage after you’re dead if there is no one you actually want to benefit?

There follows a series of steps to suit whatever stage of life you are in.

Young and free Young? No responsibilities? Anyone who tells you to “enjoy it while you can” is not your friend.

I mean, yes, enjoy it – but this shouldn’t preclude planning for the future. Here are the key action points you may

want to consider: • Creating an emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses.

• Paying off any personal or student loans.

• Short-term saving for cars, holidays and so forth.

• Income protection in case you are unable to work for any reason.

• Starting a pension plan. It is never too early.

• Saving for major purchases, such as the deposit to buy a home.

Next week, I offer financial advice for your other stages in life ...  Contact John with your money questions at jlowe@ moneydoctor.ie or visit his website at www.moneydoctor.ie. John Lowe, Fellow of the Institute of Bankers, is founder and managing director of Money Doctor

growth at exercise company

PlayFit expansion plan set to create 10 jobs  Bairbre Ni Bhraonain

TEN jobs are set to be created by PlayFit, the children’s exercise company, across greater Dublin as they continue to expand their operations.

The employees will travel to venues including Sandyford, Swords, Dundrum, Stillorgan and Terenure to give multi-sport and activity play classes to children aged three to eight.

The majority of the new PlayFit positions are for exercise physiologists with a third-level education in exercise or teaching, along with playing and coaching experience in activities such as gymnastics, rugby, soccer, GAA, basketball and athletics.

According to a Dublin City University report, only 19% of primary school children get the 60 minutes of daily exercise that is recommended by the Department of Health and Children.

PlayFit was formed in 2012 by Liza Crotty and Mark Sweeney.

Crotty said: “Since we launched in September 2012, the demand for our classes has been phenomenal.

“While this expansion will initially cover the Dublin area, by September of this year we plan to move into other parts of the country.

“Interested candidates should visit our website – www.playfit.ie – to apply, as we are recruiting immediately for these positions.”

Candidates for the new positions need to have their own transport to get from the PlayFit venue to their

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

‘Since we launched, the demand for our classes has been phenomenal.

While this expansion will initially cover the Dublin area, by September of this year we plan to move into other parts of the country’ --------------------------------------

Liza Crotty, co-founder, PlayFit

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

required venue.

The 10 new roles are a combination of full- and part-time positions and would suit gym instructors and personal trainers.

Successful candidates will host PlayFit classes designed to aid the development of children’s fundamental movement skills (tumbling, running, hopping and leaping) and ball skills (bouncing, kicking, throwing and catching), while building self-confidence in a noncompetitive, supportive environment.

There will be two sets of classes for two age groups – juniors, which will be for ages three to five, and seniors, aged six to eight.

PlayFit is a joint venture subsidiary of ClapHandies, which provides developmental training for babies and toddlers, and Fit For Life, which is a service to keep those in nursing homes fit and healthy.

bride& groom

Gazette

24 January 2013 Gazette 15

Dublin’s complete

g u i d e t o y o u r w e dd i n g

l w eddi n g sh owc as e l

Red carpet treatment at Bracken Court Hotel Brides-to-be can experience the red carpet treatment at the Bracken Court Hotel in Balbriggan later this month, when they hold their Wedding Showcase on Sunday, February 13.

With the hotel hosting over 100 weddings in 2012, they are one of Dublin’s busiest and most experienced wedding venues.

Only one wedding a day is hosted in the Bracken Court, to ensure an exclusive wedding

experience, and complete focus on the wedding party.

The showcase intends to give newly-engaged couples a chance to view the hotel set up for a wedding, allowing them a unique insight into how the venue will look for their special day. On hand to offer advice and tips will be the hotel’s wedding co-ordinators, who will be available to speak with on the day, while providing a vast experience and knowl-

edge on the hotel and its services.

The hotel will be presenting the complete wedding experience, allowing visitors view the hotel’s two suites, which will be dressed in a variety of wedding styles.

Menu selections can be discussed, and advisors will be on hand to address all aspects of the special day, from accommodation and guest services, to the reception, meal, flowers, and entertainment.

T he hotel have a number of packages available, including the all inclusive wedding from €2,450 for 100 people, while unique touches can be designed to suit each occasion, from bespoke menus, right down to the complimentary chair covers and coordinating bows in the wedding suite.

Admission to the Bracken Court Hotel wedding showcase is free, and complimentary sparkling wine and canapés

The wedding showcase intends to give newly-engaged couples a chance to view the hotel set up for a wedding

will be served. A select number of exhibitors will also be there, including limousine companies, cake designers, and entertainers, who can

advise and help plan the special day.

For further information, or to enquire about 2013/2014 wedding package specials, contact the

Bracken Court Hotel’s dedicated team, Jean Bermingham and Helga Duffy, on 01-841 3333 or e-mail weddings@brackencourt.ie

bride& groom

Gazette

16 Gazette 24 January 2013

l glowing sk in l

Skincare tips for brides-to-be  Janette Ryan Pharmacy training manager

Skincare expert Janette Ryan, training manager for Vichy and La Roche-Posay

It’s your wedding day, all eyes are on you, and every bride wants to look their very best on their big day.

Glowing skin is key to a radiant bride and to achieve this you need to put in the work – preparation is key!

To ensure you wake up with healthy skin that’s glowing with vitality on your big day, invest in a skincare plan as soon as possible. The more effort you put in, the better the results.

Skincare expert Janette Ryan, training manager for Vichy and La Roche-

Vichy Idealia Smoothing and Illuminating Cream refines skin texture and illuminates the skin

Posay, has put together some top tips for brides: The lead up

• If you don’t already follow one now is the time to adopt a daily skincare routine. Speak to the skincare advisor in your local pharmacy to develop a regime specifically

for your skin.

• Avoid any drastic diets for your wedding, as it will show negatively on your skin. Adopt a healthy eating regime, exercise and drink lots of water for a radiant glow.

• Choose a daily moisturiser that will help with extra radiance.

• Start using a facial mask once a week; this will give skin a great boost. Choose a product that best suits your skins unique needs – hydrating, radiance or deep pore cleansing.

• Get your skin in peak condition by dry brushing your body with a natural bristle brush once a week.

Start at your feet and work upwards towards the heart in long, firm strokes. Follow with a moisturising body lotion.

• It’s important to keep your skin hydrated, especially if you work in airconditioned offices.

The week before

• Avoid deep-cleansing masks which might bring imperfections to the surface. Opt for something hydrating and soothing.

• Relax as much as possible – stress can manifest as imperfections on your skin. Have a bath, light a candle, take some time for yourself and forget any wedding anxieties.

• Include a daily gentle exfoliator to your beauty regime, which will really help give your skin a flawless look and leave you ready for all those camera lenses!

On the big day

• Sleep is the best thing you can do for your skin.

Get a really good rest the night before, you will look rested and avoid bags under the eyes.

• Choose a mattifying base product that will ensure you are shine-free all day.

• Have your chief bridesmaid keep a mini thermal spa water on hand to keep you cool and hydrated.

Relax, laugh and enjoy your special day.

24 January 2013 Gazette 17

Dublin’s complete g u i d e t o y o u r w e dd i n g

A dedicated team for the perfect day It’s that time at the turning of the year when thoughts turn to plans for special wedding days, and with that in mind, the Red Cow Moran Hotel is holding their wedding showcase on February 17, from 2 to 6pm.

The Red Cow’s wedding packages start from €40pp and include everything every wedding day requires, from drinks receptions in the contemporary style of the hotel’s four-star surroundings and four-course meal with selected wines for the all-important wedding guests, to the champagne toast, evening reception and bar extension. The welcome extended to

happy couples includes a red-carpet welcome, floral centerpieces for tables and the bridal suite for the bride and groom.

The Red Cow also offer preferable accommodation rates for wedding guests, who can enjoy the best that this renowned Dublin landmark has to offer.

The hotel’s dedicated wedding coordinators promise that they will

Search is over for good fit

always go the extra mile to make your big day truly unforgettable, and the showcase is an ideal opportunity to get a taste of what the Red Cow have to offer on wedding day.  For more information,

contact Sinead at the Red Cow Moran Hotel on 01 459 3650, via email at scallaghan@moranhotel. com, or log on to www. redcowmoranhotel.com.

Showcase: Newgrange Hotel to hold a wedding open evening navan’s Newgrange Hotel is holding a wedding open evening on Thursday, January 31 from 5 to 9pm where Karine Kavanagh, the hotel’s wedding coordinator, will be helping to showcase the hotel and its wedding facilities. For more information, contact the hotel on 046 90 74100, or log on to www.newgrangehotel.ie.

Wedding shoe designers Aruna Seth have tapped into the bride’s innate magnetism towards footwear and have made it that little bit easier for brides to get their hands on that perfect pair of shoes.

Earlier this month, the brand launched a newlook website, especially designed to simplify the bridal shoe shopping process and make the experience even more pleasant.

For Irish brides hoping to get their hands on these beauties, as well as visiting arunaseth.com, you can also stop by Aruna Seth’s newest stockist, Knightsbridge Boutique in the Powerscourt Centre.

bride& groom Honeymoons at the right price Gazette

18 Gazette 24 January 2013

l r om a n ti c a n d a ffo r da b l e o pt io ns l

BETWEEN paying for the wedding and setting up a new household, many couples find there’s not much money left in their budget for the honeymoon.

But who says you have to spend a fortune to enjoy a romantic hon-

eymoon at your dream destination? Here are some simple ideas for a more affordable, yet still romantic, honeymoon.

Gift of a honeymoon

You can spread the cost of your honeymoon, or perhaps even cover the

cost entirely, by listing it on a honeymoon gift registry. A honeymoon registry works just like a wedding registry, but instead of buying you china, your wedding guests buy you a trip to China (or the honeymoon destination of your choice).

Yes, your guests could just contribute cash toward your honeymoon, but giving a particular portion of the honeymoon (dinner at a fancy restaurant, or a carriage ride through the historic

district of a far-off city, for example) is somehow more meaningful.

Exchange homes

If you prefer to mingle with the locals rather than other tourists, look into a home exchange for your honeymoon. In a nutshell, you go stay in someone else’s house while they stay in yours.

Sound risky? Maybe, but tens of thousands of people have exchanged homes across the world since the 1950s. For an

Who says you have to spend a fortune to enjoy your honeymoon?

annual subscription, home exchange clubs will help you find someone willing to swap homes with you, as well as offering tips to make the exchange go

smoothly. According to exchangehomes.com, a home exchange can cut your travel costs by as much as half.

Travel in the off-season

It may be obvious to seasoned travellers, but those with less experience may not be aware of how affordable it can be to honeymoon in the “off-season” — basically, any time other than when most people travel to your destination.

Certain destinations’ accommodation and airfare prices may be slashed by 30% or more during the off-season, compared to the peak travel season.

Consider airline alternatives

When booking airfare online, don’t overlook the discount airlines — some are not listed on the big travel portal websites, even though they might have a lower fare to your destination.

24 January 2013 Gazette 19

bride& groom

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20 Gazette 24 January 2013

Fairytale Big Day at Trim Castle

l bloom f i el d ho u s e l

Wedding game show returns Bloomfield House Hotel in Mullinger has announced the return of Red Or Black, their wedding game show, which offers everyone who enters the opportunity to play for the wedding of their dreams, and everyone who plays the game has an equal chance of winning.

Based on the TV gameshow of the same name, the contest will take place at the hotel on Sunday, February 17.

The overall prize includes a huge range of special day prizes,

including personalised handmade wedding stationery by Janice Baker Stationery, and bridal make-up by Bloomfield Spa and bridal hair by the five-star Indulgence will complete that glamorous look for the day.

Chauffeured

The winning couple will be chauffeured in style in a vintage Bentley Rolls Royce from Rover Coaches, and on arrival, guests will enjoy treats from Mrs Maguires Sweet Shop, as well as a sparkling wine and cana-

pes reception.

All the happy memories on the day will be captured by Helena Flynn Photo Services, and the wedding cake, a treasured focal point on your special day, will be provided

by Cakes by Una. The prize also includes a Supreme Wedding Package for 100 persons at the four-star hotel.

“The wedding package itself, the hotel, rooms, food, band, dancers, DJ, cake, florist, car/driver, photographer, videographer, hairdressers, make-up people, were

The Marleys: Last year’s Red Or Black game show winners

all superb,” said Roisin Marley, the 2012 Red Or Black winner. “Now, after the big day all I can confirm is that all that warmth and willingness to make the day the happiest and best of our lives

shone through from everybody.”

With over 33 years’ experience in hosting wedding receptions, the four-star Bloomfield House Hotel is renowned for service, atmosphere

and customer care.

For the chance to win the wedding package, contact Bloomfield House Hotel on 044 9340894 for full details, or log on to www.bloomfieldhousehotel.ie

If you are dreaming of a fairytale wedding day at a historical castle, then the enchanting Trim Castle Hotel, which recently won the 2012 Best Wedding Venue in Leinster, may be the venue for you.

The hotel is holding its annual wedding fair on Sunday, February 24 from 2 to 5pm, and if you are in search of a unique wedding venue, this is a day not to be missed…

Trim Castle Hotel sits with quiet authority overlooking the mystical Trim Castle and the adjoining rolling lawns of St Patrick’s Church.

A spokesperson for the hotel commented: “Trim Castle Hotel is the perfect choice for your reception as it possesses the old world charisma of the historical AngloNorman castle, and the contemporary standards of magnificent food and stunning decor.”

The hotel also boasts a rooftop terrace from which guests can admire the impressive castle.

The floor to ceiling windows of the Great Hall banqueting suite and prefunction area allow a view of the castle and church lawns. The roof-top garden located on the third floor provides an impressive backdrop for wedding photography.

An all-inclusive package is available on key dates in 2013, 2014 for only €55pp. There are also excellent packages available for January and February 2015.

For information, contact the wedding co-ordinators at Trim Castle on 046 948 3000, or email info@trimcastlehotel. com. More is available online at www.trimcastlehotel.com

24 January 2013 Gazette 21

bride& groom

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22 Gazette 24 January 2013

Successful fair at the Bridge House The Bridge House Hotel in Tullamore, Co Offaly, last week celebrated another successful wedding fair that saw prospective brides and grooms-to-be gather at the hotel.

The hotel is located less than 90 minutes from Dublin, Galway and Limerick, and aims to provide for all their wedding needs, including venues for civil ceremonies, large weddings up to 350 people and smaller wedding receptions for up to 60 people.

The hotel’s dedicated wedding team carry over 40 years of wedding experience while the stunning Secret Garden at the hotel, designed to be a prime spot for the allimportant wedding party

pictures, is a little place of mystery where brides and grooms can hide away in a magical place on their special day.

Another key photography location at the hotel is the staircase, which was designed to exactly replicate the infamous staircase in the film Titanic.

Now with a dedicated wedding website, http:// tullamore-weddings. bridgehouse.com/, potential brides and grooms can preview exactly what the Bridge House Hotel has to offer and learn more about the hotel’s wedding team.

For further information, visit www.bridgehousehoteltullamore.ie or Locall 1850 312 312 / 057 9325600

l what to we ar l

A perfect  hiromi mooney

The shape is the key feature to look out for in wedding dresses

EVERY woman desires to have the perfect dress for their special day, to walk up the aisle to marry the man of their dreams. So getting the right dress is of utmost importance.

The shape is the key feature to look out for in wedding dresses, according to owner of bridal wear supplier DarlingWear, Miriam Dempsey.

“I know brides read it in books, but I really think they need to wear dresses in a shape that actually suits their figure.

I think it’s very important to get a neckline that suits the bust line, and I think people can get very lost in – maybe wearing

strapless dresses when they ordinarily wouldn’t wear strapless dresses.

“I always ask a bride if they’re looking at a strapless dress, would they ever wear a strapless top, and if the answer is no, they probably shouldn’t be looking at strapless bridal dresses either. There’s a reason that they probably haven’t worn them for the last 10 years,” she advises.

Miriam understands how difficult it can be to choose the right wedding dress, so at DarlingWear she offers customers oneto-one appointments at the showrooms, which are located at The Gables at Kill in Tullow, Co Carlow.

24 January 2013 swords gazette 23

Dublin’s complete g u i d e t o y o u r w e dd i n g

dress for a special day --------------------------

‘I think it’s very important to get a neckline that suits the bust line’ --------------------------

DarlingWear source their products worldwide

This exclusive personal time gives customers a chance to select their dress in a comfortable and private environment. DarlingWear are open on an appointment basis only, seven days a week.

“There’s a lot of flexibility on appointments,”

she says. “I have brides and bridesmaids who come for appointments at night because sometimes it’s hard to get bridesmaids and brides off from work at the same time. A lot of people work on Saturdays, so that doesn’t work, so I also do appointments on

Sundays.”

DarlingWear have sourced their products worldwide, and as well as bridal wear and the bridesmaids collection, they also stock a wide range of accessories, footwear, communion wear and evening wear.

The bridal collection includes designs from Venus Bridal, D’Zage, Romantica, Mascara and Manon Fashions.

“I’m competitive on pricing, and the big thing is the discount options

and very good value on accessories – I’ve really gone and researched and got some good accessories and veils,” says Miriam.

“I give 10% off if people are buying two or more bridesmaid dresses, and then there’s the order and collect service. There’s 20% off where [customers] come and place the order for the dress that they want, they get measured up, and then they collect them when they come in, and they get their alterations done [by] themselves locally.”

Showcase: Viewing at Thomas Priory Hall thomas prior hall, an award-winning wedding venue situated in

Ballsbridge in Dublin, is holding a wedding showcase this weekend on Saturday, January 26 and 27. This will be a great opportunity for brides- and grooms-to-be to view the venue as it would appear on their wedding day. For more details, contact wedding co-ordinator Barbara on 01 668 1111, or email thomaspriorhall@moranhotels.com.

24 swords gazette 24 January 2013

Gazette

&ABOUT OUT Motors road NOISE The going is great with GT renault megane: the gazette tests an impressive line-up of cars

Toyota have announced Cars for Good winners

Toyota Ireland have announced that Irish Dogs for the Disabled and St Ultans in Cherry Orchard, Dublin were selected as the recipients of new Toyota cars as part of its 2013 Cars for Good programme. To date, Toyota have donated more than €80,000 worth of vehicles to charity since the programme’s inception in 2012.

As the awarded recipients, both St Ultans and Dogs for the Disabled, which are based in Co. Cork, will receive a donation of one vehicle each from Toyota Ireland, up to the value of €20,000.

The organisations can choose to raffle the car to raise funds or register the car for day to day needs.

n Cormac Curtis

The motor industry never tires of acronyms – ABS, EBD, ESP, CVT, EGR, TC. There is a dizzying array of abbreviations for all kinds of features and every level of spec, but the one that really resonates is GT. Coming from the Italian, Gran Tourismo, simply put means that the car can go the distance in comfort, and with some serious spring in its step.

I have recently been lucky enough to test three different models all given the GT Line spec, all of which came from the same manufacturer – Renault.

From the punchy little Megane Coupe GT Line to the muscular Megane Hatch GT Line and the daddy of the three, the Grand Megane GT Line, this is an impressive lineup of cars.

They may come from the same manufacturer, bear the same family

name and spec, but we are talking about three very different personalities here.

The first of the three I drove was the Hatch, and what a surprise it had in store.

Packing a 110bhp 1.5litre diesel engine, but boasting fuel-saving stopstart technology, this model has all the practicality of a five-door car with the thrill of something far more lunatic.

The car combines a sport chassis developed

by Renault Sport, for extra driving excitement, with exclusive interior and exterior design elements, rear diffuser, 17” alloy wheels, sport seats and aluminium pedals.

Next in line for me was the Grand Megane GT Line – the model that is begging to be taken for a spin down through France and perhaps to the north Spanish coast?

Yes, this is the kind of trip the Grand Megane was built for.

The Megane family may come from the same manufacturer, but they have three very different personalities

The 1.5-litre diesel engine, this time coupled to an automatic gearbox, was well matched to the weight of the car, giving plenty of power when needed.

This car gives the driver a wealth of features to make serious touring a pleasure.

Starting with the heated, split-leather seats, the interior oozes comfort.

The contrast stitching around the gear stick and steering wheel feels reassuring to the touch, while a host of clever compartments offer practical

storage in every corner of the cabin, even in the footwell.

Entertainment comes in the form of the Renault R- PLUG & R A DIO + , o f f e r i n g c o n n e c t i vity solutions for all your mobile devices including a jack plug in the front and built-in Bluetooth® technology for mobile phones, with voice recognition and audiostreaming. With the Plug & Music option you can connect your MP3 player to the USB or Jack socket and control the system using the central

control.

Navigation is handled by the Carminat TomTom® LIVE, which is Renault’s new onboard, connected navigation system. Its central control provides intuitive, safe access to the various functions.

So, to the last of the family, the sexy Megane Coupe GT Line.

Keeping in mind this little beauty has the same 1.5-litre diesel engine under the hood, you can imagine the kind of drive you have waiting in store.

Every bit the mad yoke you would expect, yet brimming with bags of the aforementioned GT Line spec of its siblings – this was my favourite of the three cars.

Maybe not my very first choice when I put my practical hat on, but the amount of features crammed into this little motor is nothing short of staggering, and man does she move about.

These are cars that Renault should be proud of, and are sure to tempt some new buyers in their direction.

24 January 2013 swords gazette 25

getaway: rooms with a view

Relax in style in Dubai’s newest beach front hotel  natalie burke

Dubai is no stranger to luxury. Whether it’s a private beach, a five-star hotel or designer shopping experiences, the Middle-Eastern destination is one that is ever-increasing in its popularity.

But for those seeking a more exclusive visit, it will come as good news that Dubai’s recently opened four-star Ocean View Hotel is not only Dubai’s newest hotel, but the only beach-front hotel to grace the shores of Dubai and the only four-star to be situated on The Walk.

Having just opened its newly carved doors to the public, as recently as December 2012, the hotel has already gained a hugely positive response. Perhaps one reason being that it is the latest venture of the prestigious JA Resorts and Hotels.

Its parent company already owns the wellknown Dubai resorts –

the Oasis Beach Tower and Jebel Ali Golf Resort and Spa. Overlooking the Arabian Gulf, the Ocean View Hotel celebrates its surroundings by boasting a total of 342 rooms and suites, most of which feature sea views (hence the befitting name).

With each room featuring all the mod-cons, including a flat-screen television, guests can make the most of the large selection of international satellite channels and avail of free-wifi across the premises.

Shopping

Holding a prominent and fortunate position on The Walk, a 1.7kmlong retail and beachside shopping promenade, the hotel is steps away from the public beach it presides over.

It also offers a selection of five different restaurants, meaning there is variety for every guest,

as well as a number of bars, with the inclusion of an executive lounge.

While there is plenty to see and do outside, the hotel hasn’t taken a ny c h a n c e s w h e n it comes to four-star facilities and features a temperature-controlled free-form swimming pool with its own sea views, as well as a spa and health club.

With its for tunate location just seconds from the beach, guests can access the public beach or hop onto a complimentary shuttle to the nearby five-star private beach at Jebel Ali Golf Resort and Spa. For a day away from the beach, the hotel also offers complimentary shuttle service to all major shopping malls.

“Ocean View Hotel appeals to a range of travellers, whether its families with young children who’ll love the kids club and pool, or couples who prefer the

Dubai is becoming ever more popular as a destination for sun, relaxation and, of course, a bit of luxury

A spacious Ocean View Hotel bedroom suite

range of different dining concepts,” explained William Harley-Fanning, the general manager of the new hotel.

Five-star service

“Ocean View Hotel has been positioned as a four-star but with fivestar service and five-star facilities. We’re located right in the heart of Dubai Marina, so it’s a fantastic base to explore all Dubai’s famous sights and landmarks.”

With fantastic offers set to launch the hotel, William says it has been

a positive start to the year.

“Until October 13, we’re offering a free upgrade from bed & breakfast basis to half board to celebrate the opening and the unique range of dining concepts within the grounds.

We’re sure that’ll be an influencing factor for a lot of our guests and we hope that they’ll then come back again the following year.”  For more informa-

tion, visit www.jaresortshotels.com.

Gazette

Travel

26 SWORDS GAZETTE 24 January 2013

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24 January 2013 SWORDS Gazette 27

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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

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cricket P28

FastSport Lucan club takes on Air Corps : ESKER

Ava Hutchinson, Fionnuala Britton, Lizzie Lee and Linda Byrne help launch the Great Ireland Run 2013 at the Radission Hotel last week. Picture: Geraldine Woods

athletics: world body confers silver status on phoenix park event

Britton a marquee name for 2013 Great Ireland road race EUROPEAN cross country champion Fionnuala Britton says she is anxiously looking forward to this year’s Spar Great Ireland Run, and “just loves the Phoenix Park”.

She was speaking at the launch of the annual 10km race last week as the Sunday, April 14 was confirmed as the date for this year, announced at the Radisson Hotel in Stillorgan.

Britton is one of the marquee names to compete in the race and launched the event along with fellow European senior women’s team mates Linda Byrne, Ava

Hutchinson and Lizzie Lee who all won gold in the team event.

Britton committed to lead the women’s field in the run where she finished seventh in 2011. “I just love the Phoenix Park,” she said.

“There is no place better in Europe to run and the buzz around the Spar Great Ireland Run is incredible. Each year it gets bigger and better with more and more kids in their own races; and then runners, joggers and walkers of all abilities start in a top class international race to aim for their own personal best.”

This year’s run will be all about enjoying a family running day out. It will begin with a Spar mini-run for five- to eight-year-olds over a lap of a mile and an adult can run or walk alongside each child.

After the mini-run comes the junior run for nine- to 15-year-olds over a longer distance of 2.5km.

The day is topped off by the 10km main event which covers a scenic single lap of the Phoenix Park in its springtime glory.

The International Association of

Athletics Federations has conferred its Silver Road Race label on the Spar Great Ireland Run, in recognition of the event’s high standard of organisation, elite participation and media profile.

This is the only Irish event recognised in this way by the IAAF. Last year’s event was won in a stunning course record time of 27.49 by multiple Olympic gold medallist Kenenisa Bekele of Ethiopia.

The women’s champion was Gemma Steel of Great Britain in 32.06.

The 2013 run will also act as the Irish 10k road championships.

ABC are running a boxing competition with The Irish Air Corps on Friday, January 25 at 7.30pm in Baldonnel Aerodrome.

With over 10 senior and intermediate bouts on the night, it promises to be a great match up that the two organisation are hoping to turn into an annual match.

It also serves Esker ABC in their preparations to take on a team from The New York State Athletic Club in New York on March 14.

Esker senior coach Martin O’Connell is a serving sergeant with the Defence Forces and has been instrumental in organising this event alongside Irish senior champion Tommy Sheehan.

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 24 January 2013

SPORT

FastSport

soccer: large local contingent in international squad

Tyrrelstown school enjoy cricket explosion A NEWLY formed sponsorship arrangement between Cricket Ireland and RSA has seen a vast amount of cricket sets distributed to schools around the Leinster area.

Karl Lynch, a teacher at Tyrrelstown Educate Together NS in west Dublin, was delighted to receive the new RSA-sponsored equipment and has seen first-hand the progress cricket has made since it started within the school.

Lynch, from Ballygawley in Co Tyrone and a playing member of the well-known Aireagal Chiarain GAA club has witnessed the game’s rise within the school of late.

“Last year, through the help of Cricket Ireland and Fingal County Council, we started a cricket coaching programme with a small number of the fourth and fifth class children.

“The sessions proved a great success and from the teacher’s point of view it was most enjoyable as the children were so involved that behaviour was not a problem.

“It is a great game for both boys and girls to compete in evenly. The children learned some great skills relating to teamwork and more importantly communication’.

“Since then, they have been nagging me to start up a school team and to partake in the various competitions that run during the final school term. Give us another year and we will look to enter the Leprechaun Cup.”

Clondalkin man Glenn Whelan is among the more established names in Giovanni Trappatoni’s panel to meet Poland

Dublin duo eye Republic debut  peter carroll sport@gazettegroup.com

COOLMINE man Stephen Henderson a n d P o r t m a r n o c k ’s Conor Sammon could be in line for a Republic of Ireland debut after he was named in Giovanni Trappatoni’s extended 27-man panel to face Poland in the Three international friendly on February 6 in Aviva Stadium.

The shot-stopper was one of three goalkeepers named in the panel along with Kieron Westwood and David Forde as a number of Dublin-

ers received call-ups.

Sammon, meanwhile, gets the nod after a particularly impressive festive period with Derby County, netting four times since the start of December.

Former St Joseph’s Boys players abounded as Darren O’Dea, Paul McShane and Andy Keogh have all been included while Clondalkin man Glenn Whelan and Portmarnock’s Stephen Ward are among the more established names in the panel.

The Republic of Ireland manager was forced

to cancel his press conference in Dublin last Monday after his sister, Romilde Trapattoni, 81, passed away after a long illness in the early hours of this morning.

Speaking about the selection, though, the Tr a p a t t o n i s a i d : “ I have decided to use this friendly game as an opportunity to work with younger players to see their potential.

“As a result, I have given senior players like Robbie Keane and Stephen Kelly a break for this fixture. We saw a number of strong performances from our

younger players in the second half of last year .

“We intend to build from those strong foundations, using this friendly match to introduce more new talent like Anthony Pilkington, Jeff Hendrick, Sammon and (Richard) Keogh. I look forward to working with these players, and seeing what they have to offer.”

Elsewhere, former Joey’s player Sam Byrne has been included in Republic of Ireland U19 team manager Paul Doolin for the forthcoming friendly inter-

nationals against the Czech Republic.

The Irish will face the Czechs in Longford on Tuesday, February 5, and again in Athlone on Thursday, February 7, as they build up their preparations for the UEFA Championships elite qualifying round in June.

Doolin is pleased to have a number of players back at his disposal after injuries curtailed their involvement in the first phase in Luxembourg last October when the Irish finished joint top of their group with Germany.

24 January 2013 SWORDS Gazette 29

Gazette

Fresh faces driving hope for New Year

Anthony Daly is hoping that his side can make use of this year’s Walsh Cup campaign to get 2013 off to an upbeat start after a chastening 2012 season for the Dublin hurlers DUBLIN boss Anthony Daly says the addition of Cuala duo Cian O’Callaghan and Colm Cronin along with Lucan Sarsfields’ Sean McClelland has added an extra pep to the step of the county’s senior hurling panel ahead of the new season.

All three were part of the Dublin minor side that reached the All-Ireland final last September but have been making an impact at training ahead of the side’s 2013 opener in the Walsh Cup this weekend.

To date, Daly has been working off an extended panel of 37 players as she tests his deck before trimming the squad for the national league.

Long-term injuries to Maurice O’Brien, Martin

 stephen findlater sport@gazettegroup.com

Quilty, Stephen Hiney and Ryan O’Dwyer have limited his options somewhat but those that have stepped into the breach have impressed.

Speaking at the launch of Stars of Erin’s Who Wants to be a Thousandaire? Fundraiser – which takes place on March 16 in Stillorgan Park Hotel – Daly told GazetteSport, the youngsters are making quite an impact at training.

“There’s a lot of young lads who have brought in a great old energy.

Those three off last year’s minor team, they’ll knock you good and hard and they’re still only repeating or doing their Leaving Certs!

“All the older lads have commented how the younger lads being around has given a fresh impetus. Hopefully that will rub off.”

It’s a fresh outlook that Daly hopes permeates the squad. The two steps forward of a superb 2011, winning the National League and reaching the All-Ireland semi-final, were followed by three steps back in a low key 2012 in which only a Leinster championship win over Laois interrupted their losing streak.

Last January, Daly said he did not mind too much losing in the first round of

Dublin senior hurling boss Anthony Daly at the launch of the Stars of Erin Who Wants to be a Thousandaire? fundraiser in Johnnie Fox’s last week Picture: Geraldine Woods

the Walsh Cup but, with the benefit of hindsight, he does see a value in getting back into a winning mode.

“Being relegated dented confidence so we’d be mad keen to get back and getting results flowing even though all the

one to see more of the lads in.”

From an upbeat base, he is hopeful this can permeate the rest of 2013 in spite of Tomas Brady, Ciaran Kilkenny, Eric Lowndes and Cormac Costello opting to play with the footballers.

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

‘Those lads off the minors; they’ll knock you good and hard and they’re still only repeating or doing their Leaving Cert’ - Anthony Daly

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

psychologists will tell you now, it’s not about results but performances.

“Looking back to last year on the Walsh Cup, Laois beat us and we saw what we could do to Laois in the championship.

“Driving home that day, I probably thought we were just as well off out of it as we can focus on the league but maybe it was the thin end of the wedge and allowed standards to slip early on.

“We certainly would be focused on trying to get out of the blocks. It does give us a chance to try out a few lads. The Walsh Cup is not the be all and end all but at the same time, we want to get a couple of good games out of it.

“If we can win the quarter-final, we are likely to have Galway in Parnell and that would be a great

To that end, he says that while he would like to have an enlarged squad, the door is only open for them to return to hurling in the right circumstances “I have great respect for my own panel and you take every case on its merits and if it will upset your own panel, maybe its not right.

“We’re happy with our squad, we have a few injuries coming right and hopefully the four longterm players out will come back about March or April.

“We’ll have a good strong squad, one that got to a league title and an All-Ireland semi-final.

If we get a few more percent onto 2011, we’ll be a match for everyone and that’s what we have to focus on.”

FastSport

Grange man McGinley the first Irish Ryder captain GRANGE golf club enjoyed a proud week as one of their own, Paul McGinley, became the first Irishman to be appointed captain of the European Ryder Cup team at Gleneagles in 2014.

Speaking about the appointment, the Rathfarnham man said: “I am a very proud Grange man to be appointed the first Irish Captain of the Ryder Cup team.

“I have been a member of Grange for 30 years, and little did I think as a young lad, practising on the new lands that I would assume this high office. I have met many Grange members on my travels around the fairways of the world and I always get a very warm feeling when I see the famous black sweater in the gallery. I look forward to the challenge and to the club’s continued support.”

At the announcement of his appointment, McGinley also paid tribute to his days at Ballyboden St Enda’s, something that engendered the team ethic that he has exhibited in the Ryder Cup in the past few years.

Famously, his 10-foot putt at the Belfry in 2002 won the Cup for Europe while he also played his part in the 2004 and 2006 teams and was an assistant captain at the past two events under Colin Montgomerie and Jose Maria Olazabal.

Speaking about the appointment, he added: “I can’t wait to get into the role of being the captain and I’m relishing the thought of taking on one of my great heroes, Tom Watson.

“He’s not only a wonderful person about a great ambassador for the game of golf. I’ve never had an opportunity to go up against him in a playing sense. To go up against him in a captaincy sense will be a real thrill for me.”

McGinley brings captaincy experience from his time as Britain and Ireland captain against Continental Europe in the Seve Trophy in 2009.

He also received high level backing with world number one Rory McIlroy saying: “He has been a great player and a great personality for the European Tour over the years. I also played under him at the Seve Trophy in 2009 and I thought he did a great job.

“From all the captains I’ve played under, I think he was the best.”

Gazette

30 SWORDS gazette 24 January 2013

SPORT

FastSport

soccer: 10-man malahide undone by spirited swords

Neville double hands Fingal huge cup win FINGAL produced the performance of their season as the division one strugglers out-did Pembroke in the Mills Cup quarter-finals, beating them 3-1 to end the Dublin 4 side’s bid for five hockey titles this year.

At a freezing ALSAA last Sunday, Chris Neville’s composed double saw Fingal cause a large upset in the Mills Cup quarter-finals.

An excellent advantage from umpire Shane O’Donnell allowed Neville, pictured above, to flick high into the net before David Bane found a route through David Williamson to make it 2-0 at the break.

Neville’s tidy third made sure before teenager George Dagg pulled one back for Pembroke with 10 minutes to go but Eoin Connolly was in mean form between the posts to not allow any late jitters.

That unlikely victory ended Pembroke’s reign in the competition and sets Fingal up with a semi-final with Monkstown who won their borough derby against Avoca 2-0 in the top half of the draw.

The day before in the league, Fingal fell 3-2 to Railway Union to see them all but confirmed in ninth place in the division and destined for a relegation playoff with the second placed side in Leinster’s division two.

Railway’s early salvo ultimately saw them see off Fingal as three goals in the opening 12 minutes gave them the dream start. Eoin MacArthur’s thunderbolt was built on by a Mark English reverse and a Peter English drag-flick for a fine base but, from there, the game got scrappy and Fingal enjoyed more of the game. Simon Lowry was forced to take one off the line after Luke Hayden had rounded Stephen O’Keeffe.

Shane Dempsey kick-started Fingal’s fightback when Eamonn Bane drove to the back line and picked out the striker from close range.

With 15 minutes to go, Chris Neville finished off a doubly-slipped corner move.

And he came the closest to levelling when he rounded O’Keeffe but hesitated, allowing Kenny Carroll to get back and block the chance.

Swords Celtic’s Sean Maguire, holding the ball, is eager to restart the game after he scored his side’s first goal

Celtic’s stunning comeback fai youth cup Malahide United Swords Celtic  sport@gazettegroup.com

2 4

GANNON Park played host to a dramatic last 32 All Ireland fixture last weekend as north county rivals Malahide United took on Swords Celtic in the FAI Youth Cup, with a late goal from Andy Madden putting Celtic into the last 16, despite the Swords men being two goals behind in the second half.

A critical moment came when in Joey Lennon, who has been cen-

tral to the success of the Emmet Trehy’s U-18’s, was sent off inside the first 10 minutes of the second half, after he cut dow n the energetic Andy Dunne who bombarded the United defence throughout the game.

It was Dunne who had come closest to breaking the parity early in the first half when he shot across the goal only for Lennon to pull off a miraculous save at full stretch, all before Malahide, who enjoyed the greater spells in the opening stanza, capitalised on their dominance

the joys of spring Dublin fans set to avail of excellent package RECEntly named Dublin senior hurling captain Johnny McCaffrey and senior footballer Ger Brennan were on hand to launch this year’s Dublin spring series of national league games in Croke Park.

A season ticket for the entire series is available for €50 which includes entry into games on February 2 as well as March 2, 10, 16 and 23.

For more information, go to www.gaa. ie/tickets.

and took the first goal.

Enjoying the better of the first instalment, United deserved their lead at the half time mark but Joe Heller’s men looked a new side in the second half.

Dunne f lew at the Malahide backline and after a few offsides, he eventually broke free which resulted in Lennon’s early bath.

Malahide were never going to back down and even with 10 men they looked to gain a further advantage on Celtic, and their efforts weren’t in vain as they doubled their lead with a fine

finish that saw the ball chipped spectacularly over the Swords stopper.

Celtic knew they needed to throw everything at their opponents to be in with a chance and Heller reacted well on the touchline by bringing on former Malahide man Sean Gelling and striker Sean Maguire, who would prove to have a big effect.

Maguire was barely on the field before he had brought the deficit back to one and he was in no mood to bask in the glory as he tucked the ball under his arm

and ran for the centre of the park to get the game restarted as soon as possible.

The super sub was on target again to bring the sides level after he cut through the Malahide defence before dispatching another effort that rippled the net, giving his side the momentum.

It was the hard work of Madden that paid off in the end and it is sure to be a moment he never forgets as he drilled the ball passed the substitute keeper, propelling the lower league side into the last 16 of the national tournament.

24 January 2013 SWORDS gazette 31

Gazette

Dubs cruise into O’Byrne Cup final Club Noticeboard  sport@gazettegroup.com

DUBLIN cruised into the final of O’Byrne Cup with a 4-15 to 0-10 win over Louth in Drogheda last weekend.

Four first half goals paved the way for the win, setting up a final date with Kildare next Saturday evening at 7pm in Parnell Park.

Two of the goals came inside a 60-second spell with Bernard Brogan on the mark on both occasions in the tenth minute as Dublin got off to a flying start to lead 2-4 to 0-2 after only 20 minutes.

In the 22nd minute Emmet O’Conghaile raised Dublin’s third green flag when his point effort dipped under the cross-

bar as the Wee County’s defence found themselves under constant pressure with Denis Bastick and Declan O’Mahony on top at midfield and wing-back Jack McCaffrey breaking with telling effect from the middle sector.

In first half injury-time Paul Hudson fisted to the net to end a confident move by Dublin that

invovled Diarmuid Connolly, Paddy Quinn and Paddy Andrews as the Dubs led 4-8 to 0-7 at the interval.

Dublin used the second half to introduce a number of subs including newcomers like Shane Carthy, Paul Mannion and Cormac Costello all members of this year’s U21 panel.

hurling: fins’ man clips nine points for region

fingalllians DUE to the bad weather the club nurs-

the club. Instead, it will take place on

ery was cancelled on Saturday. It will

Friday, February 1.

now start back this Saturday, Janu-

The Dublin county board launched

ary 26 at 10am. All players are asked to

the Spring Series 2013 during the week.

contact their managers for updates

The senior footballers will play five of

on games and training.

their league matches in Croke Park

It is important that club membership is paid as soon as possible as this

including one double header with the senior hurlers.

covers the costs attached with enter-

The fixtures are: Saturday, Febru-

ing all our teams in the cups, leagues

ary 2 - Dubs v Cork; Saturday, March

and championships for the year in all

2 - Dubs v Mayo: Sunday, March 10 -

codes. Forms available at the bar or

Dublin v Kildare: Saturday, March 16

online at www.fingallians.com.

- hurlers vs Limerick and footballers

The first coaching forum of 2013 will

vs Tyrone; Saturday, March 23 - Dublin

take place in the club on Friday, Janu-

v Down. Times and ticket info to follow

ary 25 at 9-10.30pm.

next week.

Agenda: introduction; coaching

A clothes recycling drive will take

update and requirements - Nicola Fit-

place between 10am and noon each

zgerald; importance of planning - Ger

Saturday from February 16-23.

O’Connor; key requirements for a sen-

Unwanted clothes, bed linen, towels

ior footballer - Seán O’Toole; football

and textiles including shoes, bags,

practical - focus on first touch and

belts and soft toys all accepted.

quick hands; hurling practical - focus on first touch; high catching.

There will be no poker this Friday in

Fingallians extend deepest sympathy to the Reddington family. Ar dheis De go raibh a hAnam dilis.

st finian’s OUR U-8 hurlers had great success in

Dental, in Balbriggan, for the sup-

the Gormanston indoor tournament,

ply of new mouthguards. A fitted

winning both games on Sunday after-

mouthguard can be supplied for €20.

noon.

We suggest that team mentors con-

The tickets for the Mock Wedding

tact the dentist and arrange groups

(February 16) are available from any

to visit together. Contact Tonya on

Sheridan salvo not enough for Fingal

committee member or from the club

01-8410306 or email info@castlem-

office. Contact 01-8132656 to reserve

illdental.ie to arrange an appoint-

your ticket or arrange a deposit pay-

ment.

kehoe cup

fingal ravens

Fingal’s hurlers prepare for their opening game of 2013 at Russell Park last Sunday

Fingal DCU  carl duffy

0-15 3-14

sport@gazettegroup.com

TWO first half goals and a man of the match performance from Padraig Brehony proved enough for the students, despite a 0-9 point haul from Fingallians’ John-Matthew Sheridan who led a late Fingal rally in last Sunday’s Kehoe Cup opener in Russell Park.

The northsiders started the half the strongest as they scored 2 points in quick succession in the opening minutes but

DCU fought back with points from Brehony and JJ Lennon.

Fingal scored a further six points in the opening 25 minutes in response to the goal and four points scored

by DCU. The final minutes proved to be vital as Fingal failed to score a single point and were undone by Brehony, a member of the 2011 AllIreland winning Galway minor team, who showed his experience throughout.

He grabbed two points and was instrumental in the build-up for the goals scored by

Sean McGrath and Cillian Egan to go into the break with a 2-9 to 0-8 lead at the break.

DCU continued to dominate after the restart with two points from Donal Breathnach and a point from JJ Lennon who added to his two points in the first half.

When Brehony topped off an already impressive performance with a goal, it looked like Fingal were going to be completely overrun but this was not the case as Sheridan scored further points to give Fingal a fighting chance with 10

minutes to go.

Fingal chased the all-important goal that would bring them back into the tie but found the full back line of the Students to be up to task as they harrowed and closed down the Fingal attack.

St Peregrine’s Colm Foley scored a point, to narrow the lead and was unlucky not to score a goal following a terrific solo run that was denied by a brea th ta king save from DCU keeper Damien Gallagher who ensured his side progress into the next round of the Kehoe Cup.

ment.

With the football season about to commence, we must remind all

The lotto jackpot was €8,600. Numbers drawn were 2, 10, 11 and 21. There was no winner.

juvenile and minor players that it is

The €50 Mock Wedding ticket win-

mandatory to have a mouthguard

ners were Philip Harris and Roger

this season. We have received a very

Ryan. Next week’s lotto jackpot will

competitive offer from Castle Mill

be €8,700.

THE 2013 membership is now due;

dance we are having a club social

membership forms are available on

night with a BBQ on Friday, Febru-

our website, www.fingalravens.com,

ary 1 in Kettle’s Country House Hotel.

or at the clubhouse.

We will have our player of the year

As agreed at the AGM, all members

presentations, minor league win-

must have their membership paid in

ners presentations and a presenta-

full by March 31; if any member would

tion to Mick Deegan; we encourage

like to pay by instalments they must

all members to come along.

have their last instalment paid by March 31. Only fully paid-up members can travel to Ventry in February for the Paidi O’Sé tournament.

Well done to Darren Daly and the Dublin senior football team on a good

Committee meeting this week, time and date to be confirmed.

Any mentors that need to be trained up on the defibrillator, please let Elaine Casey know on 087 9612660.

win against Louth. Best of luck to

Lotto numbers were 9, 18, 19 and

them in the O’Byrne Cup final against

35; there was no jackpot winner, €20

Kildare next Saturday at 7pm in Par-

to David Mitchell, Adam Kinsella and

nell Park.

Cecilia Griffin Murphy. Next week’s

Instead of holding a formal dinner

jackpot is now worth €5,283.

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

comeback kings: Celtic stun Malahide as they overcome a two goal deficit in Gannon Park P30

JANUARY 24, 2013

Daly’s Dublin show: Senior hurling manager upbeat for 2013 campaign P29

Fingal were undone by DCU in their first competitive fixture under the management of Mick Kennedy but he was pleased with his side’s performance

Fingal eye promotion bid Mick Kennedy is adamant Fingal can go far in the national league this spring with the backing of all the clubs in the catchment area  peter carroll

sport@gazettegroup.com

FINGAL hurling manager Mick Kennedy is full of hope ahead of his first season with the north Dublin region with the chance to gain promotion this time around in the National League now on the table, an option not available when they won division 2A a year ago.

His side lost in their first competitive outing against a strong DCU side in the Kehoe Cup last Sunday but Kennedy took a lot of positives from the performance, bringing together a completely new panel from last year’s team.

“It was a very positive display,” said the Fingallians club man. “It was a commited perform-

ance and I couldn’t ask for more from a group of lads that the majority have never played in this set-up before.

“These games aren’t all about the winning, it’s about improving hurling in the Fingal area – that’s why this team exists. I want to give every player that feels they are ready to step up a chance and that’s what I did against DCU.” With Fingal going on to win the Kehoe Shield after they exited the Cup last year, Kennedy is hoping for a similar success.

“Put it this way, we never go into a competition to lose so, of course, I think we have what it takes to win the shield.

“It’s about improving the experiences of all of the players, but I know we have a solid group

and we could definitely win it,” said the new coach.

As far as the performance of Fingallians’ man John-Matthew Sheridan, who scored 0-9 of the Fingal tally in their 3-14 to 0-15 loss, Kennedy claimed there was a lot of good performances all around the field and although he did have a good game, so did a lot of players.

“I’ve yet to see a game won by one player, there were a lot of good performances on the day as well as John-Matthew, certainly a lot of unsung heroes in the backline and the midfield,” Kennedy said.

Something that has been brought into question quite a bit since the beginnings of the Fingal hurling team was its relevance with a lot of

people claiming that it got in the way of club championship. Kennedy is adamant that having held a meeting with all of the clubs, there should be no such criticism this time around.

“I have not been involved with this team before so I’m only looking forward. I had a meeting with all of the clubs in the Fingal area on January 15 and everyone seemed very much behind the team, so I can’t foresee such questions being raised again.

“We’ll be featured in the Spring Series this year and get a chance to raise the profile of the team by playing big teams in Croke Park. We also have the possibility of promotion this year so it should be a very big season for us,” he finished.