Dublin Gazette: West Edition

DublinGazette 



DECEMBER 20-26, 2018





WIN!

Could you be on the ball enough to win a classic Dubs All-Ireland DVD box set? See our brilliant prize inside! SEE PAGE 23



West Edition FREE

THE LATEST NEWS & SPORT FROM SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL AREA

Suffragettes saluted

THE historic General Election of December 1918 was the first time Irish women had the right to vote. To mark the centenary the Mayor unveiled a memorial plaque in Sean Walsh SEE PAGE 2 Park.

SPORT SWIMMING:

Fatal fire HARK, THE LITTLE ANGELS SING horror  started by candle



Tallaght’s Hyland and Coyne break string of short course lifetime bests in China at world championships SEE P34

ADORABLE little Christmas angels Meadow Rankin-Mearns, Patsy Redmond and Ralph O’Reilly hit some heavenly notes as they helped launch the IFA Live Animal Crib in the city centre at The Mansion House.



THE NEXT ISSUE OF THE DUBLIN GAZETTE – YOUR FAVOURITE LOCAL NEWSPAPER – WILL BE OUT ON DECEMBER 27

Local housing site still suffering vandalism Serious acts of arson in Clondalkin

PADRAIG CONLON

Find us on Keep reading, keep recycling – thank you

Whether or not you’ll be heading in to town to see the crib, or will be listening to great carol singing from people in your neighbourhood, may Dublin Gazette wish you and yours a very Happy Christmas! Picture: Conor McCabe Photography

VANDALISM continues to be a problem at a contentious local building site despite assurances from gardai and the council.

The development of 63 social houses at St Cuthbert’s Park in Clondalkin has been dogged with problems since work started on the site in October.

Workers even downed tools last month and refused to work on the site

due to acts of intimidation and violence against them.

They only returned after assurances were given about their safety and on site security was ramped up.

The problem still lingers however and three serious incidents this month are under investigation by local gardai.

FULL STORY ON PAGE 2

AN inquest into the tragic deaths of a woman and three children in a fire in Clondalkin last year was told the blaze was caused by a tea light.

Annemarie O’Brien, 27, who was eight months’ pregnant, her two-year-old daughter Paris, four-year-old nephew Jordan McGinn and 22-month-old niece Holly O’Brien, all died from smoke inhalation following a fire in Cluainin Cronan facility on Kilcronan Avenue, Clondalkin on 8 March 2017.

Verdicts of accidental death were returned at Dublin Coroner’s Court last week for all the deceased.

SEE PAGE 13

2 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 20 December 2018

PICK UP YOUR

DublinGazette WEST EDITION

EVERY THURSDAY! at the following locations:

• SuperValu – Lucan • Marks & Spencer – Liffey Valley • Tesco – Liffey Valley • Tesco – Lucan • Centra (Lynch’s) – Lucan • Carey’s – Lucan • Eurospar – Ballyowen • Maxol – Lucan • Topaz – Lucan • Lucan Comm College • St Josephs College • The Clarion- Liffey Valley • Spar – Finnstown • CBS – Lucan • Spar – Dodsboro • Tesco – Celbridge • Lucan Library • SuperValu – Palmerstown • Centra – Griffeen • South Dublin County Council • IT Tallaght • Lucan Golf Club • Eurasia Supermarket – Fonthill • Rossefayre Supermarket Balgaddy • Dodsboro Clinic • The Penny Hill • The Food Centre – Lucan • Penny Hill Cabs • Centra – Foxborough • SuperValu – Celbridge • The Mill Centre • Moyle Park College • Colaiste Cillain • Colaiste Bride • Louis Fitzgerald Hotel • Tesco – Clondalkin • O’Riodghs – Clondalkin • Round Towers GAA • Clondalkin RFC. • Clondalkin Library • Collinstown Park Community College • I.T - Tallaght • B&Q – Tallaght • Tallaght Hospital • Tallaght Firhouse • Tallaght Leisure Centre • Tesco – The Square • Leisureplex – Tallaght • Neilstown – Unemployment Centre • SuperValu – Rowlagh • Jaymarc’s Supermarket – Clondalkin • Joelle’s Restaurant • SuperValu Firhouse • Mace – Killinarden

For further info

www.dublingazette.com

01 60 10 240

MEMORIAL: FLOWER BED PLANTED IN COLOURS OF SUFFRAGETTE MOVEMENT

Council commemorates local suffragettes THE historic General Election of December 1918 was the first time Irish women had the right to vote.

To mark the centenary of this landmark event the Mayor of South Dublin County Council, Cllr.

Mark Ward, unveiled a memorial plaque in Sean Walsh Park to commemorate the courage and perseverance of local women suffragettes.

In addition to the plaque, a flower bed has been planted in the colours of the Suffragette movement with an “X” sign centred in the middle of the planting bed which signifies the election ballot paper which citizens used to cast their vote.

The trees in the vicinity will be wrapped in

the colours also to celebrate the event.

Speaking at the plaque unveiling on Monday (17th December) Mayor Ward (pictured) said: “Today we remember and celebrate the dedication and courage of the Irish Suffragettes movement, one hundred years ago.

“1918 was the first time Irish women were permitted by law to vote and stand in parliamentary elections.

“This change came about after many years of campaigning and action.

“I hope that this memorial will prompt passers by to stop, think of the past, and acknowledge the courage and perseverance of local women suffragettes.”

Acts of vandalism continues at Clondalkin building site FROM PAGE 1

DESPITE an increased G a rd a p re s e n c e a n d ex tra security, inc idents of vandalism have

continued this month at a building site in Clondalkin.

S i s k Co n s t r u c t i o n recommenced work on sixty three rapid build

social houses in St Cuthberts Park, Bawnogue at the end of last month after gardai agreed to put additional resources in the area to protect site

workers.

Work had previously stopped on the site for a week after many Sisk e m p l oye e s re c e ive d threats, had their cars vandalised and tools stolen.

Vandals had also made a number of attempts to set fire to the houses which are being built for South Dublin County Council.

The site is now surrounded by high fencing and monitored by CCTV cameras which are linked directly to the local Garda station.

However the vandalism hasn’t been totally eradicated as three serious incidents of criminal damage have taken place this month.

On December 1, a JCB

was destroyed after it was set alight.

The next night (2nd) a fire was started in one of the houses and it was

“

No arrests have been made and investigations are continuing

only thanks to the quick response of the gardai and Dublin Fire Brigade that the blaze was prevented from causing serious harm.

On December 7 another arson was reported

and this latest incident is currently also under investigation.

A Garda spokesperson told Dublin Gazette: “Gardai from Clondalkin also attended the scene of an incident at St Cuthbert’s Park, Clondalkin, at about 4am on Friday, December 7.

“A c a b i n w a s s e t alight.

“No arrests have been made and investigations are continuing.”

Supt Brendan Connolly from Clondalkin Garda Station, said the local station has reintroduced an operation that was previously in place last year but had to be cut due to a lack of resources.

“There have been incidents there but there is a current policing operation in place and we will be monitoring it for the foreseeable future,” he said.

“Gardai and South Dublin County Council are working together to deal with any incidents.”

Mayor Mark Ward told Dublin Gazette that this month’s three acts of arson are “isolated incidents and everything is calm at the moment”.

S i s k Co n s t r u c t i o n h a d n’t re s p o n d e d to requests for a comment at the time of going to press.

20 December 2018 WEST  DUBLIN GAZETTE 3

TALLAGHT HOSPITAL : POSITIVE ATTITUDE TOWARDS LIVING WITH DIABETES

Patients awarded for their courage and perseverance PADRAIG CONLON

A GROUP of Tallaght Hospital patients have been awarded medals to recognise their years of courage and perseverance.

The six patients were presented with special 50 and 60 year medals-ofachievement at a recent awards ceremony in recognition of their positive attitude towards living with diabetes.

The six recipients, all in their 70’s, have collectively lived with Type 1 Diabetes for 320 years.

The awards were presented in the recently-opened Simm’s Building beside Tallaght University Hospital, which is now the designated location for the Hospital’s diabetes outpatient services.

Tallaght University Hospital is a leading provider of complex diabetes care, and a core activity of its Diabetes Centre is to empower patients through education.

Each year the hospital sees and assists over 10,000 people living with diabetes.

The four women and two men from Dublin and Roscommon, who have been attending the Diabetes outpatients Clinic at the Hospital, each received either an Alan Nabarro medal (50 years) or a Robert Lawrence medal (60 years) from Professor Richard Firth, Consultant Endocrinologist and former National Lead for the Diabetes Clinical Programme in Ireland.

Commenting at the presentation Professor Firth said: “Living with Dia-

Patients were presented with special 50 and 60 year medals-of-achievement

betes for over 50 years is a remarkable achievement.

“It says more about the self-discipline and compliance of the individual patient than about the improving

care available. However, the latter is improving so that we hope to see more and more people qualifying for Medals while we wait for the cure for Type 1 Diabetes.”

LUCAN

Deadline looms for bus changes LUCAN residents who want to have their say in the future of local bus services, need to register their interest soon ahead of a forum next month.

The Community Forum for the emerging main Lucan Bus Corridor will be held at The West County Hotel, Chapelizod on January 9 2019 from 6.30pm to 8.00pm.

Bus Connects are now accepting requests to participate in the community forum from.

With places limited, only one representative per group or association can be accepted and only registered attendees will be able to attend the forum on the night.

4 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 20 December 2018

CHRISTMAS APPEAL: CLONDALKIN HELPING HOMELESS, FEED OUR HOMELESS TO BENEFIT

Tesco raise over €40k worth of donations for charities TESCO stores across Dublin have raised €44,749 worth of donations for local charities as part of Tesco Ireland’s annual Christmas Appeal.

Across the country, a total of €150,000 worth of donations has been collected to support families in need in their local communities.

Some of the organisations benefiting from the appeal in Dublin include Clondalkin Helping Homeless, Cheeverstown, Feed Our Homeless and Addiction Recovery.

The annual Tesco Ireland Christmas Appeal ran in Tesco stores from December 7 to 9 and shoppers were asked to donate a product instore to their local charitable organisation.

Food, toiletries, nappies, small clothing items and toys were donated as part of the three-day appeal.

Volunteers from 130 good causes, already supported by the Tesco’s surplus food donations programme, were on-hand across the country on Sunday to collect these goods for local distribution.

Aoife Donohoe, head of corporate affairs Tesco Ireland said: “We are delighted that our Christmas Appeal collected over €150,000 this year for our partner charitable organisations across the country.

“We all know and recognise that Christmas

can be a tough time for some people and we are really grateful to our customers for their continuous generosity donating items over the weekend.

“Volunteers from the organisations worked tirelessly over the three-days and are now in the process of delivering the donations collected during the appeal to those in need ahead of Christmas.”

All of the items donated during the appeal in Tesco stores have been given to 130 partner causes from the Tesco surplus food donations programme which is run in partnership with FoodCloud.

Anna Daly launching the appeal with Naoise Roddy and Jamie Finnie. Picture: Brian McEvoy

Airport reveals plans for €1.7bn upgrade SYLVIA POWNALL

SPA-LIKE showers, a barista bar and new fast-track services are just some of

the proposals outlined in an ambitious €1.7 billion upgrade for Dublin Airport.

More than 100 planned projects are outlined in

Dublin’s latest draft capital investment programme published by the Commission for Aviation Regulation.

The upmarket upgrade is deemed necessary to cope with the anticipated extra 10 million passengers that will travel through the airport from 2020.

In all the total spend forecast is €1.68 billion which includes new boarding gate areas, aircraft parking stands and other key infrastructure.

Around 30 million passengers use Dublin Airport each year and its rapid growth is set to continue with a prediction that it

will attract 40 million travellers by 2020.

There are plans to move T1’s security from the ground floor to the mezzanine level, allowing for more seating, retail and food outlets at the departure area on the ground floor.

The T1 security move would cost around €50 million to complete and the upgrade to the ground f loor departures area would require a €43 million spend.

Airport users are invited to provide feedback on the 620-page consultation document

Improvements to the airport’s fast-track security

services are also proposed on foot of suggestions and feedback from fivestar and long-haul airlines using the hub.

In arrivals fast-track services are also being considered at both T1 and T2 to enable passengers to skip queues at passport control – for a fixed fee charged through the airlines.

Executive lounges at T1 are to be fitted out with “spa-like showers” under the draft plan with similar upgrades planned in the lounges at T2 and US preclearance.

Other major developments include the building of 5,960 long- and shortterm car parking spaces.

Airport users are invited to provide feedback on the consultation document which will determine CAR’s draft airport charges for the period 2020-2024; at www.aviationreg.ie.

20 December 2018 WEST  DUBLIN GAZETTE 5

6 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 20 December 2018

GALLERIES OF THE WEEK

A closer look at the Custom House

Tumbling snowflakes dance down the front of the Custom House

Awash in a sea of neon colours T AKE A moment when you’re in town this weekend to look up and around – the Winter

Lights Dublin CIty project has transformed many landmarks after dark and is one of the most popular (and

colourful) public events this Christmas.

Several landmarks come alive after dark in a blaze of

neon colour, with shimmering snowflakes, dancing shapes and even a certain jolly toymaker’s sleigh to be seen darting about near the river.

The eco-friendly projections use little power, and the riverside projections are

best veiwed at high tide, for some fantastic reflections.

So, whenever you’re near the likes of the GPO, Trinity College, City Hall, Custom House – take a moment to take in the sights, as well as the great lights all around.

Pictures: Shane Dillon

Bystanders admire the GPO facade

Samuel Beckett Bridge

Colourful reflections alongside Butt Bridge

20 December 2018 WEST  DUBLIN GAZETTE 7

8 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 20 December 2018

ENVIRONMENT: ANOTHER LOCAL AUTHORITY GOES GREEN WITH SOME OF ITS TRANSPORT

Electric vehicles spark council’s interest ANOTHER Dublin council is going green by replacing their petrol and diesel cars with new electric vehicles.

South Dublin County Council recently added five Citroen Berlingos to their fleet as part of a commitment to improving the environment.

They are the third Dublin council to make the switch to electric after Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown, which launched its new fleet in February, and Fingal, which launched its new

electric council vehicles in July.

It is hoped this latest decision by a local Dublin authority to switch to electric vehicles (EV) will encourage other road users in the capital to do likewise.

Back in June, the Government introduced a toll charge reduction scheme for electric vehicles.

The scheme means that electric vehicle owners will only pay half the toll rate and plug-in hybrid vehicles

will get a 25% toll reduction.

Eligible private car owners may be able to accumulate up to €500 in toll savings per annum and up to €1,000 in savings for goods vehicles.

Drivers can avail of the discount by signing up for an EV tag with an approved toll tag provider.

Speaking at South Dublin County Council’s launch of the new EVs, Mayor Mark Ward said he hopes others will follow the council’s lead.

He said: “This is our first step in the decarbonisation of our fleet. Electricpowered vehicles reduce the impact of the council fleet on local air quality.

“Other carbon-reducing projects in the pipeline include Tallaght’s district heating project, the replacement of lightbulbs with LEDs in council buildings and street lighting, and improving transport linkages, which includes the develop-

ANIMALS: CHARITY WARNING AS MANY PETS SOON SURRENDERED

Think twice before you get a dog for Christmas

That Christmas puppy may be adorable – but any would-be pet owners are being asked to think twice before taking on a serious long-term commitment

SYLVIA POWNALL

DOGS Trust is suspending rehoming and adoptions this Christmas after recording a 30% rise in numbers surrendering pets after the festive season.

The Dublin-based charity has dealt with 2,840 requests to surrender dogs so far this year – with 897 received in the first three months of 2018 and 334 in January alone.

Executive director Suzie Carley said: “Each year we are saddened and worried by the number of people looking to relinquish their dog, especially in the first few months after Christmas.

“Owning a dog is a longterm commitment so we

are urging people to wait and take due consideration at any time of the year but especially when thinking of getting a dog for Christmas.”

“We would encourage those who have made the decision to get a dog, to consider adopting from your local rescue centre, local pound or Dogs Trust and give a rescue dog the best second chance in life.

“We receive a large number of surrender requests each day and we are unable to help everyone.

The organisation is also urging dog lovers to sponsor their Puppy Play Groups so they can do their bit for canine pals at www. dogstrust.ie/sponsor.

ment of cycle tracks.”

Five dedicated charging points have been installed in a number of the council’s offices and depots.

South Dublin county currently has 12 public charge points and five fleet charge points, and many supermarkets within the county provide EV charge points for their customers while they shop.

The five EVs are now operational and being used across the county.

Irish Life employees help raise €360,000 for two Irish charities RACHEL D’ARCY

EMPLOYEES of a leading Irish company have raised €360,000 for two Irish charities in the largest sum ever donated in a single year by a company.

Irish Life employees raised the funds throughout 2018, with its 2,400 employees participating in different fundraising initiatives.

The company then matched the amount raised by the employees, to reach the final €360,000 total.

This year, the charities chosen by Irish Life staff are the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association, an organisation dedicated to working with people living with MND and their families and carers, and Remember Us, which provides a unique social outlet to people with special needs and their families.

Each charity this year will receive a donation of €180,000 to help provide essential support services, ongoing equipment needs, and critical research funding.

This is the largest amount ever raised by Irish Life in one year and equates to almost €1,000 raised every day by staff this year.

Irish Life employees took part in several different fundraising activities this year for the chosen charities.

These activities included more than 185 staff taking part in Hell and

Back, 125 staff completing the Great Dublin Bike Ride, 200 staff participating in a Last Man Standing weekly soccer prediction competition, table quizzes, a Ticket Fairy competition for monthly salary contributors, and additional funds from staff who ran marathons and competed in triathlons throughout the year.

Commenting on the donation, David Harney, chief executive of Irish Life, said: “We are delighted to donate this significant amount to two very worthy charities this year.

“The spirit of serving communities in which we’re based and supporting those in need is a key part of our culture in Irish Life, and this donation to the IMNDA and Remember Us reflects that.

‘Very proud’ “I’m very proud of our staff for really getting behind this initiative each year and being so supportive of our fundraising initiatives and giving their time for such worthy causes.”

Each year, the Irish Life Staff Charities committee shortlists a number of Irish charities to receive donations collected throughout the year, and the final two are selected

by Irish Life employees.

Since its inception, the Irish Life Staff Charities initiative has raised in excess of €2.9 million for a wide range of Irish and international charities.

20 December 2018 WEST  DUBLIN GAZETTE 9

CHRISTMAS: ONE OF COUNTRY’S LARGEST AND LONGEST-RUNNING FUNDRAISING EVENTS

Help turn miles into millions for GOAL FROM Ballybrack to Ballsbridge, a number of Dublin community groups are expected to be out in force to raise funds for GOAL this Christmas.

Now in its 37th year, the GOAL Mile is held every Christmas and is one of the country’s largest and longest-running annual fundraising events.

Last year, more than €70,000 was raised in Dublin through the GOAL Mile to help support the work the charity carries out in the developing world.

There will be a number of different GOAL

Miles taking place across Dublin up until January 1, from Tallaght, to Irishtown, to Shankill, to Santry and beyond.

‘A family tradition’ Alan Vard from GOAL said: “The GOAL Mile has become a tradition for many families and communities over the Christmas period, and thanks to organisers, millions have been raised to support GOAL’s work in the developing world since the first Mile was staged in 1982.

“The beauty of the GOAL Mile is its simplic-

Meet the Dublin engineer hoping to reach out to the stars with ESA REBECCA RYAN

A BUDDING Dublin scientist has won a huge national competition to train at the European Space Agency (ESA).

Cillian Murphy won the coveted position, along with Amy Joyce from Clonmel, who are both now in Madrid with the programme.

The traineeships, which can last for one year or more, offers life-changing opportunities to pursue a career in Europe’s gateway to space.

Dundrum man Cillian (26) told Dublin Gazette how the achievement gave him a real boost.

He said: “It felt great. I’ve worked with ESA before, so I was excited to work with them again.

“I hadn’t been having much luck trying to get a PhD and had taken up a job working as an engineer in Hungary, so I felt myself straying from my career path.

“Winning the national traineeship has been great and really bolstered my motivation again.”

Cillian has a master’s degree in space and science technology from UCD. He will work on the Gaia Mission to assist in completing an astrometric survey of stars, using spacecraft observation.

He is also a future analog astronaut candidate with the Austrian Space Forum (OeWF).

Cillian said he has always had an interest in science from a young age: “My mother loves to tell a story about me, at five years old, being given free choice from a bookshop and coming back with a space encyclopedia.

“I decided to pursue science in secondary school and focused on physics. It was only once I started studying physics in

Budding Dublin scientist Cillian Murphy with fellow Irish scientist Amy Joyce – both secured training with the European Space Agency, ESA

UCD that I settled on pursuing space science.”

During the traineeship with the ESA, the top-ranking researcher will work on cutting edge projects and gain practical experience in high-tech space activities.

Cillian said he is “excited” about the work ahead and being in Madrid: “It’s impossible to pick just one thing that I am looking forward to and enjoying at ESA. “I love the working environment, the general friendliness of people and the variety of clubs and non-work activities you can join.

“I’m excited about the work, about having the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to a space mission I admire and have followed since before it was launched years ago.

“I’m enthusiastic to learn everything I can from the experiences I will have and from the colleagues I am meeting.”

James would love to work with the ESA someday and ultimately wants to become an ESA astronaut.

ity. People don’t need to register in advance but simply show up to their nearest event, run or walk a mile and contribute whatever they can afford to GOAL on the day.”

If you are interested in taking part in your local GOAL mile, all you need to do is find out the date and time of your local event, put on your walking or running shoes and just turn up.

There is no need to register; just turn up and donate what you can to GOAL on the day.

To find out where your local GOAL Mile is You’re never too big – or too small – to walk, run or jog a mile to support GOAL taking place, see www.goalmile.org.

10 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 20 December 2018

GALLERIES OF THE WEEK

Brian O Haonghusa,Ray Shah and Kevin Prout

Catherien Fallows and Nidhi Bhanushali

Ryder Galvin and Cherry O Brien. Pictures: Brian McEvoy

Susie McGowan

Lucy Kennedy

Cinema goers assemble

Laura Wall and Treasa Wall

A

Lisa and Maisiebelle Colgan

Remi Hehir and Amelia Sharkey

special preview screening of the latest movie in the Transformers franchise ‘Bumblebee’ was held in the Odeon Cinema In Point Square.

Kate Bownes and Senan Kelly

Dayl Cronin

Josh Gray and Alex Gray

20 December 2018 WEST  DUBLIN GAZETTE 11

Michelle Regan

Aideen Clinton, Emma Murray and Aoife Smullen

Mary Kinsella, Lynda Butler and Hilary Moloney. Pictures: Simon Peare

An evening of Christmas fare at St Joseph’s College S

t Joseph’s College Lucan Parents’ Association held an evening of Christmas Fare last week. The event was a cookery demonstration of sweets, treats and party food by home economics teacher Ms Reagan.

Raheny friends remembering Barbara Monaghan, Alan Barry and Mary Bermingham. Pictures: Alison O’Hanlon

Lilly Worrall and Robin Sweeney

Katie O’Reilly, Jennifer Costello, Charlie Costello and Olive Andrews

A night to S remember in Raheny

T Francis Hospice Raheny hosted their Tree of Life ceremony last week to remember those they have cared for over the years.

During the service the lights of the Hospice Christmas Tree were turned on to remember all those cared for both past and present.

Attendees were provided with a red candle for the ceremony which could be taken home after.

Sheena Bolger, Aine Breslin and Kate McMahon

Conor and Helen Dunne with Laura and Rachel O’Kelly

Des Nix, Sr Margaret Cashman and Fintan Fagan, St Francis Hospice CEO

12 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 20 December 2018

CHRISTMAS: TALENTED TEEN RELEASES SINGLE TO RAISE FUNDS FOR CANCER

Move over Ronan: Keating’s nephew on song for charity SYLVIA POWNALL

RONAN Keating’s nephew has released a Christmas single to raise funds for the cancer charity set up in his grandmother’s name.

Talented teen Josh Keating, 13, is following in Swords native Ronan’s footsteps with his cover of Birdy’s ‘Not About Angels’ in aid of the Marie Keating Foundation.

The song is available for download on iTunes and Spotify with all proceeds being donated to the foundation’s cancer awareness and prevention work.

Josh first heard the song on the movie soundtrack to The Fault in Our Stars and chose it because of its connection with cancer.

He said: “I have always loved to sing and been passionate about music. The opportunity to record this single came up and I just jumped at the chance.

“The fact that I can, hopefully, raise a lot of money for a cause so close to mine and my family’s heart, makes it even more special.”

The single was debuted in Ireland at the Marie Keating Foundation’s annual Christmas lunch where Josh performed in front of an audience of more than 300 guests and supporters.

The Marie Keating Foundation receives no government funding and relies on donations to continue to provide mobile units and nursing outreach.

It also provides supports including the Comfort Fund service and its survivorship programmes for people who are living with and have come through cancer.

Foundation CEO Liz Yeates said: “We are marking 20 years since Marie Keating died from breast cancer, so it is a very special year for Josh to release this single.

“So much has been achieved in Marie’s name over that time and we look forward to supporting cancer survivors and their families for many more years to come.

“At this time of year, we just want to send a heartfelt thanks to all of our supporters and volunteers for their help and generosity over the past 20 years, we wouldn’t be here without your continued support.”

Uncle Ronan, who will take to the road for Boyzone’s farewell tour next year, said: “We as a family are so proud of Josh.

“The money raised from this single will go a long way towards helping the charity provide support and help to more people in 2019 and beyond.”

Josh Keating. Pictures: Jason Clarke

XMAS

Reach out to elderly neighbours ALONE is urging people to reach out to elderly neighbours who may be lonely or isolated this Christmas.

The charity which supports older people to age at home is highlighting its Have a Laugh for Loneliness campaign as the festive season gets into full swing.

ALONE’s activities in the coming days will include Christmas dinner dances for older people and volunteers, the delivery of hampers and Christmas trees to older people in need and a special Christmas Day dinner delivery for a number of older people.

For those who have concerns about their own wellbeing, or the wellbeing of an older person in their community, ALONE can be contacted on (01) 679 1032.

20 December 2018 WEST  DUBLIN GAZETTE 13

ROADS

Calls to reclassify bypass to ease traffic MINISTER for Transport Shane Ross must urgently reclassify the Palmerstown Bypass as a National Road.

That’s according to David Gardiner, the Workers’ Party rep for PalmerstownFonthill, who predicts further traffic problems in Palmerstown village.

“The situation with regards to traffic in Palmerstown Village is dreadful and is likely to get worse if the current plans to develop upwards of 300 housing units on the old Vincent Byrne site goes ahead.”

“We shouldn’t be surprised that a Fine Gael government is advocating housing with no adequate facilities and infrastructure.”

Overpass Gardiner believes a solution to this would be to build an overpass, similar to the overpass at Lucan Village, connecting Palmerstown Village with the other side of the bypass more efficiently.

“This would allow traffic to flow in an easier way from the surrounding counties into the city centre without impeding on motorists driving along the Kennelsfort Road,” he said.

“Because it is classified as a regional road, such a project would have to be undertaken by South Dublin County Council.

“They have said before that they have no plans to do this, and it’s unlikely that this will change anytime soon, likely as a result of a lack of funding.

“However, if the road was reclassified as a National Road again, much-needed funding would be available to do so.

“I am calling on Minister Shane Ross to reclassify the Palmerstown Bypass as a National Road, and to secure adequate funding for the construction of an overpass connecting Palmerstown Village with the rest of Palmerstown, thus easing congestion.”

CLONDALKIN: VERDICTS OF ACCIDENTAL DEATH

LUCAN COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Fatal fire horror that killed four started by candle AN inquest into the tragic deaths of a woman and three children in a fire in Clondalkin last year was told the blaze was caused by a tea light.

Annemarie O’Brien, 27, who was eight months’ pregnant, her two-year-old daughter Paris, four-yearold nephew Jordan McGinn and 22-month-old niece Holly O’Brien, all died from smoke inhalation following a fire in Cluainin Cronan facility on Kilcronan Avenue, Clondalkin on 8 March 2017.

Verdicts of accidental death were returned at Dublin Coroner’s Court last week for all the deceased.

Dublin Coroner’s Court heard the seat of the fire was located on a shelf under a TV in the living room.

Annmarie’s sister Biddy O’Brien, who was the only survivor of the blaze and mother of two of the children, told the inquest that she visited Annmarie every week in the supported accommodation apartment in Clondalkin.

She arrived at the apartment before Annmarie on March 7th, 2017 and after staff let her in she cleaned the apartment, burned rubbish in the fireplace, bathed the children and made porridge for them.

Annmarie, who had been told earlier that day that was to get her own home, arrived back from a hospital appointment at 6.30pm.

Forensic expert Paul Collins, who told Dublin Coroner’s Court he discovered a number of tea lights in the

debris of the fire, said he believed hot gasses from the tea light rose up and set fire to the television.

He also gave evidence that two of the three fire alarms in the apartment had been disabled with the batteries removed.

Biddy O’Brien, told the court that there were no tea lights lighting on the night of the blaze.

Two other residents from the refuge also gave evidence.

Firefighter Keith Conroy of Dublin Fire Brigade described how when he entered the apartment, he saw a child either sitting or standing on the back of a couch.

He said that when he picked the child up and removed them from the building, he could hear

Elf Karen, Santa and principal Sean McCarthy

Festive fun for a good cause A LOCAL school continued their quest to raise funds for a sought-after sports hall with a special event. Gael Scoil Chluain Dolcain on the Old Nangor Road hosted a very successful Christmas Fair last Friday which will help them on their journey.

Jessica Sherwin, chairperson of the school’s Cairde (parents association) explained to Dublin Gazette why this year’s Christmas Fair was extra special.

“We are delighted with the success of our recent Christmas Fair and would like to thank everyone who supported it.

“We had a great day, it went so well, the

money raised will be going to an important cause. We are fundraising for a much needed sports hall in our school.

“Some days our children cannot do PE as we have nowhere for them. There’s a great Christmas spirit and fun in our school right now, we are one big family.

“We are a small enough school only just over 400 students but we are very much involved around our little village.

“We need all the support we can get in order to reach our target so any help from the community is very much appreciated.”

breathing.

Garda David Sheffield from Clondalkin Garda Station told the court when he arrived at the scene he saw members of the Fire Brigade removing children from the apartment who were covered in soot and appeared lifeless.

Coroner Dr Myra Cullinane returned verdicts of accidental death for all who died in the fire, including Annmarie’s unborn baby AJ. “The very fact of going through so many verdicts in relation to tiny babies, it’s very moving.

“I offer my deep condolences on your tragic loss,” the coroner said.

Lucan students celebrate World Human Rights Day LUCAN Community College students celebrated World Human Rights Day with a series of special events on December 10. The date marked the 70th anniversary of the UN creation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights created in 1948.

This international document, signed by over 190 nations, states the 30 basic rights and fundamental freedoms to which all human beings are entitled.

The Lucan CC Amnesty group, working with different subject departments in the school, organised a number of competitions and events to raise awareness about human rights issues.

Prizes were handed out to the winners at a special ceremony in the school hall on Human Rights Day. The Amnesty group also highlighted the individual cases of woman human rights defenders and used social media to campaign on the day for justice for these women.

14 DUBLIN GAZETTE 20 December 2018

LOVE YOUR DUBLIN: THE BREAKDOWN OF THE COSIEST PUBS FOR A XMAS DRINK

TAKE A TRIP OFF THE BEATEN PATH THAT IS TEMPLE BAR FOR YOUR CHRISTMAS GET-TOGETHERS

DUBLIN MADE EASY W

AN IN-DEPTH LOOK AT DUBLIN’S BEST BARS FOR A FESTIVE TIPPLE

ITH this being the final work week of the year for many Dubliners, thoughts will be turning to getting together for a few post work drinks with colleagues.

Living in Dublin has its ups, like the bars, the delectable restaurants and beautiful the parks, but it also has its downs -the rent costs, the crowds and the traffic.

But even the grumpiest Dubliner has a hard time denying the craic that is to be had in the city come Christmas.

For most of us our favourite way to celebrate the season is to get together and go for a few drinks, sing a few festive favourites and catch up on all the events of the last twelve months whith those we may not have seen since last Christmas.

It might be cold outside but these Dublin bars will warm you up, and give you a big dose of festive cheer.

So grab your colleagues, close friends, those home for the season, and dive into one of these legendary establishments.

HORSESHOE BAR

37 DAWSON STREET

TONERS

HIGHLIGHT: Whiskey selection

HIGHLIGHT: Late opening hours

HIGHLIGHT: One of Dublin’s oldest pubs

THE HORSESHOE BAR in the Shelbourne Hotel is one of Dublin’s most famous and unique bars and this year, as always, they’ve really pushed the boat out of Christmas with a massive tree and beautiful decorations.

Since first opening its doors in 1957 it has long been established as Dublin’s prime venue.

The Horseshoe Bar has always been a meeting point for the rich and famous so you never know who you might bump into!

With a wide selection of drinks, including an impressive selection of whiskeys, you’re guaranteed a great time in this epic bar.

37 DAWSON STREET is another centrally located city centre bar that is perfect for Christmas get togethers.

With an extensive cocktail list and a Whiskey Bar (that stocks 37 different Irish whiskies), this dimly lit beautifully furnished bar is a lovely place to sit back and relax after a hard year at the office!

37 also serves great food throughout the day so there’ll be no need to leave and go on the hunt for “soakage”!

The bar opens late (even on Sundays!) so it’s a great venue if you’re in a large crowd and worried about getting separated later in the night.

LOCATED ON Baggot Street, Toners is one of Dublin’s oldest and best pubs, and very popular with city centre workers for a post work pint or two.

With an award winning snug, drawers behind the bar and a flagged floor, you’ll feel like you’ve gone back in time, especially after a few pints!

According to Rory Guinness, a member of the Guinness family, Toners serve “the best pint of Guinness in Dublin” and who is going to argue with him!

Toners also has two great private function rooms which are free to hire if you want to get away from the crowds.

20 December 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 15

MAGAZINE

DUBLIN

RURAL RETREATS TO RELAX ANY GUEST... P20

HAVE YOURSELF A COSY LITTLE CHRISTMAS P27

Renegade Jeep is an impressive new SUV P28

LET DUBLIN GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS TAKE YOU ON A TOUR OF THE NEWS AND EVENTS ACROSS THE CITY AND COUNTY

GRATEFUL FOR ‘GIFT OF LIFE’

BROADCASTER Claire Byrne took time out for a photoshoot with kidney transplant recipient Tadhg McElroy (age 7) from Bray and Sadhbh Browne (age 4) from Galway, who awaits a liver transplant, and their families and friends to highlight an important radio advertising awareness campaign, organised by the Irish Kidney Association, which encourages families and friends to discuss organ donation as they gather for the festive season. For organ donor cards Freetext DONOR to 50050 or visit website www.ika.ie/card, download a free ‘digital organ donor card’ APP to your phone. #Havethechat.

Picture: Conor McCabe Photography

16 DUBLIN GAZETTE 20 December 2018

FEATURE

Nebraskans Mary and Jeff Brookstein love the real Santa Claus so much, they legally changed their names to Merry Christmas and Santa Claus

PEOPLE | IT’S SNOW JOKE – THIS CHRISTMAS-LOVING COUPLE LEGALLY CHANGED THEIR NAMES

Meet the other Santa Claus spreading Christmas cheer REBECCA RYAN

A COUPLE from Nebraska who legally changed their names to Santa and Merry Christmas Claus recently visited Dublin to spread some Christmas cheer.

Previously known as Jeff and Mary Brookstein, the Christmas-loving couple (both 60) met online in 2009 and dated as they worked as Christmas entertainers for day care centres, nursing homes, retirement centres and holiday parties in their home town.

However, they have been living as Santa and Merry Christmas Claus year-round since 2016, and their mission in life is

to spread the Christmas joy all year around.

Dublin Gazette caught up with the couple and the first thing we wanted to know is what made them decide to change their names?

Merry said: “When you think of Santa and Merry Christmas Claus, it brings joy and people smile. Everybody should have that happiness and joy in their lives every day of the year!”

The reaction they got from their family and friends was mixed. Some thought it was a great idea and others thought they were crazy.

Merry said: “They were so excited,” with Santa

Festive Mr and Mrs Claus were in Dublin to help promote a TK Maxx prizes initiative

adding: “Some thought we were kind of crazy! But that’s part of what we do.”

Christmas is an all year around event for Santa and Merry Christmas Claus, and with the big day just around the corner, we asked what their favourite

thing about Christmas is.

Santa said: “It’s a yearround feeling. It’s when I see everybody from babies to the elderly react, when they see Santa, it puts a smile on their face.

“If they’ve had a bad day and they see Santa, they

smile, and that’s what Christmas is all about, all year around.”

Merry added: “For us, it’s not about the tree or decorations. We believe that Christmas is more about the joy and the spirit of giving than it is about

what lights or tree to have in your home.

“For us, it’s more about the joy that we bring to others, and we try to do that every day of the year.”

It is Santa and Merry’s first time in Dublin and they were eager to try some of the black stuff.

“We just love [Dublin]!

We went to the Guinness Store House and they have a wonderful tour. They taught us the right way to drink Guinness. We got to pour a pint, and we got our pictures on top of the dome,” said Santa.

Thinking of the real Santa Claus, the happy Christmas couple left a special message with Dublin Gazette for all the girls

and boys in Dublin.

Santa said: “Tell the children of Dublin that the real Santa will soon be here, so the children have to be asleep early if they want to get their gifts.”

And finally, what is it like to be married to Santa?

Merry was happy to reveal that, of course: “When you’re married to Santa, every day is Christmas!”

The couple were flown to Dublin by TK Maxx to launch its neverending stocking, with TK Maxx hiding neverending stockings in TK Maxx stores around Ireland throughout November and December, with unique gifts for all the family for an entire year up for grabs.

20 December 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17

18 DUBLIN GAZETTE 20 December 2018

QUIKFLIX FLIX Streaming highlights on the way

Michael D’s dogs meet ‘Santa and Mrs Claus’ PRESIDENT MICHAEL D HIGGINS’ beloved dogs, Bród and Sióda, got a Christmas treat of a lifetime earlier this year. The president’s much adored pooches got the chance to rub paws with the stars of Netflix’s newest festive offering, The Christmas Chronicles.

Santa (played by Kurt Russell) is forced to employ the help of two children to save Christmas, with things doing dastardly wrong along the way in what’s sure to become a festive classic. The Christmas Chronicles is available now to watch on Netflix.

The contestants from this year’s The Apprentice – Camilla is pictured wearing red on the left, and Sian is in the white suit in the centre

Sesame Street adds its first homeless character SESAME STREET introduced a brand-new character last week – Lily, a muppet with multicoloured hair, who reveals that her family have lost their home.

It’s another milestone for the children’s show, which introduced Lily on its Sesame Workshop YouTube channel. Lily (7) reveals that her family don’t have their apartment any more and has been forced to move around.

The introduction of Lily is part of the company’s Sesame Street in Communities initiative, meant as a resource for families and guardians tackling particularly difficultto-discuss issues.

The muppet will feature in new videos, books and interactive activities for children aged two to six.

Be amazed...

Sugar says ‘You’re hired!’

RACHEL D’ARCY

AFTER eight weeks of trials, tribulations, and some questionable business moves, the final of this year’s series of The Apprentice was aired on Sunday.

In the final were swimwear designer Sian and nut milk maker Camilla, who’d defeated tennis coach Sabrina, cleaner Khadija and supplement creator Daniel to reach the final two.

It’s been an eventful season, to say the least. A part of the entertainment value of the show is the sheer insanity of some of the challenges.

This season saw the contestants establish

a landscaping business within 24 hours, creating an entire luxury chocolate line in less than a day and building an entire budget airline.

During the highlyanticipated interview stage of the show, it was difficult to predict who would end up in the final after 12 weeks, with the final five getting a poor showing as they faced some of the UK’s biggest business moguls.

The final two came as a surprise, particularly as Sian got a slating for planning to spend Alan Sugar’s investment on marketing.

Finding herself also slated for the price point of her swimsuits, it came as a shock that she was select-

Perfect for fans of magic this winter, abraKIDabra will wow audiences ...

RACHEL D’ARCY

RTE’S premier children’s magic show, abraKIDabra, is currently airing on RTEjr, and will make it’s way onto the RTE Player so we can soon all get our magic fix.

Catch Joe Daly and friends as they do their best to put on a fabulous magic show as well as teach us some brand-new tricks.

Each episode, Joe will be joined by his new friends, Polly and Snowy, as well as two budding apprentices who learn a new trick and go on to

perform it for the audience.

Shot on location in The Ark, Temple Bar in Summer, Macalla filmed 15 episodes of abraKIDabra which featured almost 200 children from all across Ireland.

The programme encourages children at home to learn and practice tricks taught to them by Joe. While Joe performs in front of an audience in The Ark, the show’s focus is to entertain and amaze the audience at home.

Each episode is broken up into segments such as Quick Trick, Joe’s

Show, Teach a Trick and Put On a Show, promising continuous entertainment while encouraging audiences to take part in the challenges at hand.

Each programme runs for eight minutes, and there’s also additional material online with tutorials to take part in at home.

The series has a fun and contemporary feel with bright colours and animated graphics – perfect for younger audiences.

Catch abraKIDabra on RTEjr, and on the RTE Player soon as well.

ed for the final ahead of the seemingly better prepared Daniel.

Camilla was a wildcard too, given that Sugar and his team of merry businessmen told her she would struggle to expand her nut milk business, currently run out of her kitchen at home, and the potential lack of profitability.

Sunday’s final – a change from the show’s usual Wednesday air date – saw Camilla and Sian go head to head to try to successfully execute a business presentation in front of experts to attempt to successfully illustrate why they deserved the £250,000 investment.

Taking place at London’s City Hall, it was

s o m ew h a t aw kwa rd to watch as they were pressed on what – to some – may have been obvious questions that they failed to answer.

H o w eve r, i t w a s empowering at the same time as the women defended their business with a passion and zest.

This came after former contestants returned to give a helping hand to the final two, aiding them in creating the branding and prototypes for their business in true Apprentice style.

Sian’s SYO Swim came across well, but so did Camilla’s MLK IT nut milk brand.

Whilst the swimsuits didn’t fare the best in the

market research conducted at Charing Cross, and Camilla’s nut milk came out on top, ultimately it was Sian’s reversiblemultiway all-singing, alldancing swimsuits that caught Sugar’s attention.

Sian was named the winner in one of the tightest Apprentice finals in recent years, after her business accumen shone through in the final boardroom showdown of the season, in addition to her fashion expertise.

In all, it was a nerveinducing final given that it was so close between the pair, but was the kind of television that the Apprentice has become known for, and that we come back to every year.

20 December 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 19

WHAT’S BIG IN MUSIC, CINEMA, TV AND BOOKS MORTAL ENGINES | PASSABLE FARE

Tale of mobile, warring cities rumbles along a bit aimlessly AND so, here we are, at the last film review of the year – and what a film to end up with.

Barely a wet weekend out of the gate, and mobilecities-at-war flick Mortal Engines (Cert 12A, 128 mins) is already well on track to be the biggest financial flop of the year.

Released globally in the hopes of being a Christmas blockbuster, instead it’s proving to be a bit of a turkey, as audiences are staying away from this one in droves.

But before we plough ahead with the review, let’s roll backwards a little for some oversight.

Based on a book, the film is a long-time labour of love for co-producer Peter Jackson, who bought the rights yonks ago but is just rolling the film out now.

A big problem is that Mortal Engines isn’t a widely-known IP – and with all due respect, when Hugo Weaving is the biggest name in a big-budget blockbuster, well...

It’s a pity, because despite the film’s issues, Mortal Engines is fine.

Not great, but fine, and there’ve certainly been many worse films released this year.

Let’s jump on board for a look ...

In the future, after devastating conflict has destroyed most Hera Hilmarsdottir impresses as Hera, one of the film’s two main protaganists

 SHANE DILLON

of the world, Humanity’s survivors have fallen into a number of competing camps.

Some cities and settlements are now mobile monstrosities, tearing around on the hunt for smaller cities to consume for resources, with London proving particularly voracious as a predator city.

Captured towns and settlements are soon stripped to nothing and their populations enslaved – devoured, essentially, with London proving particularly effective at the hunt.

Not everyone is mobile; while mobile cities roam The Great Hunting Ground (Britain and Europe), stationary cities lie behind a shield wall far to the east (Asia) .

It’s not long before we meet chief protagonist Hester (a gutsy Hera Hilmarsdottir), a young woman in a captured town, who soon has a

hero’s/rebel’s journey to undertake with some unlikely companions to help her out.

Her ultimate goal is to assassinate a key Londoner, Valentine (Weaving), who has his eyes set on a much bigger prize than the scraps London can chase down on the Hunting Ground ...

The end result is a film that certainly wows with its striking design and often spectacular visuals as it soars from the ground to the air, and into the depths of carnivorous cities, but one which also soon loses its way.

Frankly, much like the chief characters, the film veers all over the place with a clumsy narrative that lacks focus.

There’s almost too much film here – that’s not a reflection or criticism of its running length, but a nod at a plot that wanders around even more than Hester herself, with a lot to take in.

That would be fine if there was an in-built audience familiarity (God knows, the Byzantine shenanigans of the Harry Potter films didn’t harm that franchise’s success) but in this case, few people are familiar with Mortal Engines‘ world-building.

Ultimately the film is a feast for the eyes with some gorgeous visuals, but despite the best efforts of all involved there’s precious little to build on, here, making it good but not great.

Verdict: 5/10

ENTERTAINMENT London – the mobile city – bears down on its prey as it chases down a small town to strip for parts

20 DUBLIN GAZETTE 20 December 2018

TRAVEL

THESE RURAL RETREATS WILL RELAX ANY GUEST

Country comforts

LEAVE THE CITY’S STREETS BEHIND FOR A DELIGHTFUL CHRISTMAS BREAK

MANY of us are looking to take the stress out of Christmas – and late as it is, it’s not too late to find a great holiday deal at home.

Luckily, we’re spoilt for choice to have many truly first-class hotels and resorts in Ireland, with a Christmas getaway offering the chance for you to get some well-deserved TLC. Whether close to Dublin or over near the other side of the country, here are a couple of delightful destinations to check out, and consider checking into for a lovely, luxurious Christmas break ...

The Lodge at Ashford Castle Escape to the hidden gem that is The Lodge at Ashford Castle, to delight in a truly festive stay, celebrating the best of the magical season indoors and outdoors this Christmas outside Cong, Co Mayo.

Showcasing some of the wonderful country pursuits available in this part of the world, Christmas at the Lodge at Ashford Castle offers options a firsthand look at some of the best of Irish scenery, including falconry, archery, and a jaunt across the countryside with a woodland walk through some of the lush local forests set on the shores of Lough Corrib.

Of course, it wouldn’t be Christmas without an array of scrumptious food, and as a guest you’ll find savoury and sweet deliciousness at Wilde’s, expertly run with the inventive and innovative direction of head chef Jon-

athan Keane.

Enjoy an evening of merry conversation with the crackle of an open fire in the distance and the soft glow of Christmas all around.

Whether it’s yourself, or travelling with a loved one or, indeed, the whole family, guests will be delightfully full as they retire to their rooms for a perfect night’s sleep in the cosy beds at The Lodge, with the whistle of Winter’s chill far in the distance.

Enjoy a one night Christmas stay from now to January 6, including breakfast, dinner in Wilde’s, mulled wine and mince pies on arrival, and a late check-out at 1pm, from €299, with two nights from €369.

Optional extras include trying your hand at the ancient art of falconry with a ‘Hawk Walk’ under the supervision of Ireland’s School of Falconry, upgrades to a suite, and many other additional

(Main, above) Hunter’s Yard at Mount Juliet Estate offers a tranquil destination – replete with some excellent spa treatments and dining

treats.

For further information, see www.thelodgeac. com, telephone 094 954 5400, or email reservations@thelodgeac.com.

Hunter’s Yard at Mount Juliet Estate Closer to home, Co Kilkenny is home to the cosy and comfortable surroundings of Hunter’s Yard, the more casual, laid-back luxury option at Mount Juliet Estate just an hour away from Dublin.

This elegant courtyard, just five minutes’ walk from the Manor House, is home to the bright and spacious rooms of the Hunter’s Yard.

A tranquil hideaway adjacent to the Jack Nicklaus signature-designed golf course, Hunter’s Yard

is only a few paces from Mount Juliet Spa with its excellent range of restorative treatments, and is home to the tempting menus of The Hound

at Hunter’s Yard, which offers all-day dining.

With plenty of fresh country air to invigorate and exquisite gardens and majestic woodlands

across Mount Juliet Estate to explore, with their variety of native and exotic trees, you could just as easily curl up with a good book or read the papers by

the fire in the manor house – this is your time to relax.

A two-night stay in Hunter’s Yard from December 27 to January 2, with breakfast each morning, a complimentary bottle of prosecco on arrival, free parking and complimentary WiFi, is available for €445, based on two people sharing.

Enjoy a perfect Irish country Twixmas at Hunter’s Yard – a fresh take on Mount Juliet’s rich heritage of hospitality and make the time between Christmas and the New Year even more memorable this year.

For further information, see www.mountjuliet.ie, telephone 056 777 3010, or email reservations@ mountjuliet.ie.

(Left, above) Staff at The Lodge at Ashford Castle are experts at soothing away city stresses – and a break out by the countryside promises to be just the thing to relax, unwind – and have a delicious break far from the hustle and bustle of the city

20 December 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 21

GALLERIES OF THE WEEK

Andrea Smith

Liz Lyons and Rick O Shea. Pictures: Brian McEvoy

Claire Mullane

Delighted with Les Mis

C

AMERON Mackintosh’s acclaimed Broadway production of Boublil and Schonberg’s beloved musical, Les Miserables,had its offical opening night at Bord Gais Energy Theatre as part of a new UK and Ireland tour.

This revolutionary new staging has scenery

Jim Sheridan

inspired by the paintings of classic novelist Victor Hugo, and has been seen in North America, South America, Korea, Japan, Canada, Australia, Spain, France, Manila, Singapore, Dubai and Broadway.

Theatre and musical fans were out in force, with many well-known faces in attendance.

Maya Anton and Saoirse Anton

Trish Rowley and Eddie Rowley

Megan O Neill

Colette Gallagher,Martina Osbourne and Elaine Dillon

22 DUBLIN GAZETTE 20 December 2018

DUBLIN GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS I N F O R M AT I O N Heritage House, Dundrum, Dublin 14 Tel: 01 - 6010240 Dublin Gazette Newspapers publishes four weekly quality free titles, covering the latest news, sport, entertainment and lifestyle from the four local authority areas of Dublin

TELLING A TALE AS OLD AS TIME ...

C O N TA C T S Managing Director: Michael McGovern mmcgovern@dublingazette.com Group Editor: Patrick Finnegan pfinnegan@dublingazette.com Deputy Group Editor: Shane Dillon sdillon@dublingazette.com Sports Editor: Stephen Findlater sfindlater@dublingazette.com Production Editor: Jessica Maile jmaile@dublingazette.com Picture Editor: Aisling Conway aconway@dublingazette.com Travel Editor: Sylvia Pownall spownall@dublingazette.com Advertising Sales:

01 - 6010240 sales@dublingazette.com

FIND US ON

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

MONSTROUSLY ENTERTAINING: A young Beast (James Brophy) and Belle (Kitty Thornton) helped set the mood at Dundrum Town Centre recently where they helped to promote The Mill Theatre’s Beauty and The Beast panto, which is currently running until January 6.

Written and directed by Geoff O’Keeffe, the classic tale tells of unrequited love, featuring Evelyn Shaw as Belle, Shane Quigley as The Beast and Matthew O’Brien as the arrogant Gaston, with Garry Mountaine as Granny Potts. The panto’s producers promise spectacular songs, dance routines and magical special effects.

Tickets for the hour-long panto are priced at €14, or €55 for a family. For further information about Beauty and the Beast, see www.milltheatre.ie.

WELCOMING THE NEW Jive along to all the YEAR – IN FEBRUARY Dance Hall days’ hits THE annual Chinese New Year Festival will see the Year of the Pig welcomed in next February.

TA two-week programme of CNY events will run from February 1-17, marking the 12th edition of the popular festival, which this year celebrates the final Zodiac animal: the pig.

Included on the programme are a variety of talks, performances, film and music, and a multitude of family-friendly events that invites all ages to take part in the cul-

tural celebration.

Some festival highlights include the Spring Festival fair on February 9-10, inspired by traditional Chinese temple fairs; and the Spring Festival Gala, which will take place on February 16 at the National Convention Centre, featuring dance, music, acrobatics and Peking Opera.

For tickets and further information on what promises to be a great festival, see dublinchinesenewyear.com.

THE Rock ‘n’ Roll years and Dance Hall days are coming back to Dublin early next year, with a brand-new show featuring George Jones, Clubsound and four fantastic singers, promising to transport audiences back to the nostalgic good old days and incredible music and artistes of the 1950s and 1960s.

Combining evocative love ballads with the greatest Rock ‘n’ Roll hit songs of

the era, this show will carry the audience back to a time when dance halls were full of the sounds of The Four Seasons, Ruby Murray, Bobby Darin, Elvis, and many, many more.

With more than 40 classic songs, this is a show not to be missed at The Pavilion Theatre in Dun Laoghaire, so mark the date (Thursday, April 4) in your diary. For tickets, see visit www.paviliontheatre.ie.

20 December 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 23

DIARY

SOME OF THE LATEST EVENTS TAKING PLACE IN DUBLIN

A night with Dickie THE legendary singer Dickie Rock will perform at the Red Cow Moran Hotel this Christmas Season for one night only on Friday, December 21.

One of Ireland’s most successful singers, Dickie has been entertaining audiences for more than 50 years.

He has recorded a great many singles and albums, made hundreds of TV appearances, has performed thousands of live shows and tours the UK and USA regularly.

Join Dickie and his band for a wonderful night of entertainment, and prepare to be wowed by all

the old favourites, including Candy Store, Every step of the way, Yours, a n d m a ny more.

Tickets are available from Eventbrite, with the show tickets costing €30; dinner and show priced

at €59, with a show and stay offer for €99 available from redcowmoranhotel.com.

DOG OF HAPPY CHRISTMAS, READERS! THE WEEK

DUBLIN Gazette Newspapers has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for lost and abandoned dogs. Meet Shep, a beautiful and energetic two-year-old Collie-cross which is looking for active owners. He has plenty of personality and will insist on cuddles and attention once he gets to know you. Like most Collies, Shep has a super brain and loves different games and doggie puzzles.

He will make a great Agility dog, as he is very active and likes challenges. Shep is not too sure how to behave around other dogs, so he is best suited to a single-pet home. He will make a wonderful pet for someone interested in reward-based training and who’d like to be involved in dog sports and activities.

If you have room in your heart and home for Shep then please contact Dogs Trust on 01 879 1000. They are based in Finglas, just off exit 5 on the M50. Map and directions can be found on their website www. dogstrust.ie. You can also find them on Facebook www.facebook.com/dogstrustirelandonline or Twitter @DogsTrust_IE. (Remember: Always have your dog on a lead when in public.)

FROM everyone here at Dublin Gazette Newspapers – your best local newspaper – we’d like to wish all our readers a Merry Christmas, and give an early nod to a Happy New Year!

Thank you for your continued support this year, and don’t worry

– although we’re taking a little time off for our own Christmas

WIN!

break, we won’t be over-indulging on turkey sandwiches and boxes of Quality Street for too long, and you’ll find another great, brandnew Gazette out next Thursday, December 27.

So, be sure to pick us up then – and until then, Happy Christmas!

A DUBLIN

GAA

BOXSET

ALL HAIL THE 1975 Yet So Unaware of It, and their most recent release that soared to the top of album charts globally.

A Brief Inquiry into Online Relationships features the hits, It’s Not Living If It’s Not With You, and Give Yourself A Try, and has appeared on a number of Top Albums of 2018 lists.

On the night, The 1975

will be supported by London-based musician No Rome and the alternative outfit, Pale Waves.

Limited tickets for The 1975 are available now from Ticketmaster, priced from €35-€41 excluding booking fee.

Under 16s must be a c c o m p a n i e d by a n adult, and the standing area is strictly over-14s.

Water fun spectacle!

NOW in its seventh year, New Year’s Festival Dublin (NYF Dublin) has announced ticket details for the spectacular Liffey Lights Midnight Moment event taking place on New Year’s Eve at the Custom House. The dazzling lighting specta-

cle will be performed against the backdrop of the Custom House and features a thrilling choreography of lasers and aqua beams. For full details on what promises to be a night to remember, and ticket info, see www.NYFDublin.com.

Ebuzz.ie, Beaumex Entertainment and Sideline Productions have just released new GAA boxsets featuring the some of the best All-Ireland wins over the years including Dublin. The Dublin boxset includes 5 matches from 1974 to 1983.

Now close to 4000 minutes of RTE All-Ireland final broadcasts covering nearly 50 matches are on

sale in 6 individual exclusive DVD gift box-sets.

For more All Ireland finals dating back to 1961 and to order the full range of the new GAA box sets online - visit www.ebuzz.ie Five lucky winners will win a Dublin GAA boxset which includes the five iconic matches from back in the day.

To be in with a chance of winning one of the four boxsets up for grabs, answer the following question:

 Q: When does the



Dublin boxset date back to?

A – 1974 to 1983 B – 1943 to 1962 C – 1985 to 1992



FOLLOWING the release of their latest record, A Brief Inquiry into Online Relationships, The 1975 will play Dublin’s 3Arena on January 10.

The Mancunian quartet will play hits from their acclaimed debut record, The 1975; their sophomore follow-up, I Like It When You Sleep, for You Are So Beautiful



TO ENTER: Email competitions@dublingazette.com with your full name, phone number and the answer to the question by December 27. Full terms and conditions are available from our website at https://dublingazette.com/whats-on/competition/competition-terms-conditions.

24 DUBLIN GAZETTE 20 December 2018

GOINGOUTOUT

REFLECTIONS ON ALTERED LIVES

WITH SPIES

PICKWEEK OF THE

DECEMBER 24-25

Santa Claus @ Homes everywhere, FREE Not strictly a music event, per se – although we hear there are jingles and sleigh bells involved, so there’s your tenuous music link, folks – but there’s no doubt that Mr Claus is having a huge impact on the city’s music scene this week. With gigs everywhere cancelled, Santa’s definitely one of the two headliner events this week ...

DECEMBER 20 (THURSDAY) Glen Hansard @ Vicar Street, SOLD OUT Frontman of The Frames and star of the movie Once, Glen Hansard has a lot of strings to his musical bow, and he’ll explore them all in his annual Christmas show at Vicar Street.

Hudson Taylor @ Whelan’s, SOLD OUT Ryan O’Shaughnessy @ The Grand Social, €12 Chief Keegan @ Whelan’s (Upstairs), €5

DECEMBER 21 (FRIDAY) Damien Dempsey @ Vicar Street, SOLD OUT Hudson Taylor @ Whelan’s, SOLD OUT I Draw Slow @ The Grand Social, €15 Attention Bebe @ The Sugar Club, SOLD OUT The best comedy cover band ever to grace the city? Quite possibly. Attention Bebe’s hilarious, riotous exploration of 90s pop gets its Christmas outing.

The Ocelots @ Whelan’s (Upstairs), €12

DECEMBER 22 (SATURDAY) Hudson Taylor @ Whelan’s, €25 Damien Dempsey @ Vicar Street, SOLD OUT Brian Deady @ The Sugar Club, €17 Smash Hits @ The Academy, €23 Pinhole + Elaine Malone @ Whelan’s (Upstairs), €7

DECEMBER 23 (SUNDAY) King Bones @ Whelan’s (Upstairs), €12 Damien Dempsey @ Vicar Street, SOLD OUT

DECEMBER 24-25 You-know-what...

DECEMBER 26 (WEDNESDAY) Made Of Stone @ Whelan’s, €15

SOMETIMES you love a band, and then they simply disappear.

When you’re inclined to an affection towards a local act who even founded their own little scene through a label (Trout Records), and stoked it with their own boisterous, guitar-mashing live shows, these kind of ‘fade aways’ seems to happen all too often.

Sometimes, like with Spies in 2018, the band later returns in a blaze of glory.

The return of this particular fiery band whose early EPs set tongues wagging could hardly be more well-timed.

Dublin’s rock scene is on quite a high, recently prompting a feature in NME which waxed lyrical about the strength of the city’s output, hyping the likes of Girl Band, Fontaines D.C., The Murder Capital and Silverbacks.

With the return of

 JAMES HENDICOTT

Spies accompanied by a long overdue debut album in Constancy (the band formed way back in 2011), there’s a marked change in style and substance.

There are still plenty of those guitars, but gone are their overpowering domination, with elements of synth work and even a mellow album-closing ballad adding depth to Spies’ palette.

“We wanted to work on an album properly, so we took a step back from gigging. When the album was complete, we couldn’t see the wood for the trees,” vocalist Michael Broderick explains.

“We weren’t really sure how good it was, so we decided to let it rest.”

When the band finally

returned to the stage with a new single in April of this year, it had been nearly two years since their last show.

“We started thinking about the keyboards and stuff when we finished producing our last EP, at The Meadow,” Broderick says of the stylistic change prevalent on the release, which follows three earlier short-form records.

“We saw what we could do with all the equipment they had down there.

“The new album is about coping with change.

It’s about the inevitability of it in life, about how you can’t control your environment, so you have a really limited amount of control about how things change around you.

“I was writing it when I was going through a lot of change in a relationship that goes all the way back to my adolescence.

“It wasn’t actually

about the flux in the band, but I guess it could be seen that way, too. I hope people can listen to it and form their own thoughts on what it means to them.

“One of our closest friends is Morgan from [fellow breakthrough Irish act] Saint Sister, and we spent a lot of time talking about what our new music meant to us, and how to present it.

“The scene is really phenomenal at the moment. Some of the albums out this year in Ireland are incredible,” he says.

The next big step for Spies, who are already well established in Ireland, is to look further afield.

That’s challenging, especially for what’s still an independent band.

“It definitely spreads the word, doing shows abroad,” Broderick says of the challenge. “It’s difficult to fund, though.

“At the moment, we track our plays and most are in Ireland. When you travel, you have to play those shows to six people, and let things build over time, generate some talk.

“It’s very pricey when you don’t have any backing. A support tour would be the ideal.”

For their growing local fan base, though, they key thing is Spies are back on stage after a long, contemplative delay. They’re different, but the change is also a sign of growth, resulting in some soulful depth.

Spies’ latest record, Constancy, is out now, on record and digitally

20 December 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 25

FOOD FOR THE SOUL AND BODY

ENTERTAINMENT

Restaurant cooks up help worth €6,500 for homeless people REBECCA RYAN

A VERY generous Dublin restaurant has donated their entire day’s takings to a homeless charity.

Wishbone donated the proceeds of their sales on December 3 to Inner City Helping Homeless (ICHH), handing over a cheque for €6,500 to the charity on Monday.

It is the second year in a row the Montague Street restaurant ran the initiative, raising even more money this year.

Owner James Stimpson told Dublin Gazette they were delighted with how it went.

He said: “It was great.

It was our second year doing it; last year we made €5,000, so I wanted to better that.

“We also had the ICHH van outside and collected [toy-filled] shoeboxes and donations of toys.

“It was brilliant – everybody went out of their way. Everybody was buying an extra can of coke or dessert because they knew that all the money was going to go to charity.

“It’s really nice. It’s a real feel-good factor.”

James used to travel on the train from Malahide into town for work and his heartstrings were

VEGAN and ayurvedic chef and author Keith Squires has shared his Multi-Coloured No Cook Vegan Gluten-Free Christmas Pudding recipe with Dublin Gazette.

Chef Keith is based in the stunning Snowdonia mountains, and his new book, Cooking With Love, is full of vegetarian and vegan recipes.

He’s turned his skills to developing some vegan-friendly Christmas recipes as well.

HAPPY TO HELP: Wishbone’s David Clarke, Michelle Hetherington and James Stimpson with the cheque for €6,500 to present to help the homeless

pulled when he saw see homeless people on the street every day. It was then that he decided he wanted to do something to help.

He said: “I live in Malahide and I used to get the train to Pearse. I’d walk from Pearse to Wishbone and I’d see first-hand all the homeless people.

“I’d see them first thing in the morning waking up on the streets and then I’d leave the restaurant at 11pm and I’d see them, and it would break your heart.

“Then I saw that this charity [ICHH] that were just amazing. They were bringing our soup, sand-

w i c h e s, coffees a n d everything [to donate to homeless people] so it was a nobrainer.”

James said that they will continue to support ICHH every Christmas. They are also opening up two more restaurants in the new year, one in Dorset Street and one in Kilkenny, and the restaurants will continue this generosity and raise funds for the local charities in the areas.

“Wherever we are, we will do something for local charity,” said James.

He is also hoping that other businesses will be encouraged and follow suit. “It would be amazing if other restaurants followed trend or even donated a day’s coffee sales,” added James.

Second Elephant and Castle opens ELEPHANT and Castle have opened their second location in Dublin, at Rathmines, set at the corner of Rathmines Road and Castlewood Avenue..

The Irish restaurant has been in Temple Bar since 1989 and the new 110-seater location opened in Rathmines last week. The menu will feature the same great dishes that make Elephant & Castle a firm favourite, from fluffy omelettes and buttermilk pancakes to caesar salads, juicy burgers and crispy spicy wings.

Early 2019 will see a further expansion in Dublin, when Elephant & Castle will march its way into Monkstown village.

‘No-cook Christmas pudding’ Ingredients • 100g sultanas • 100g dates, chopped • 100g dried figs, chopped • 150ml apple juice • Quarter tsp ground nutmeg • 1tsp mixed spice • 1tsp cinnamon • 100g cashews • 100g coconut oil • 100g maple syrup Preparation: • Add the juice to the dried fruit and add the spices. Mix well and soak for at least two hours.

• Place the cashews, coconut oil and syrup in a Vitamix or Nutribullet-type blender. Add 100g of the soaked dried fruit and blend to a puree.

• Stir in to the soaked fruit and mix well. Place into a pudding bowl and freeze overnight.

TOPPINGS ‘Red as a Beetroot Topping’ Ingredients • 80g raw beetroot, peeled and sliced thinly • 80g coconut oil • 80g 100% fruit raspberry jam • 80g cashews Preparation: • Put the sliced raw beetroot,

coconut oil, sugar-free jam and cashews in a blender. It needs to be a strong one like a Ninja or NutriBullet. Grind to a smooth paste.

‘Green as Grass Topping’ Ingredients • 80g raw spinach • 80g coconut oil • 1 kiwi • 50g agave syrup • 80g cashews Preparation: • Put the spinach, kiwi, coconut oil, agave syrup and cashews in a blender. It needs to be a strong one like a Ninja or NutriBullet. Grind to a smooth paste.

‘Orange Topping’ Ingredients • 80g raw carrot, peeled and sliced thinly • 80g coconut oil • 80g 100% fruit apricot jam • 80g cashews Preparation: • Put the sliced raw carrot, coconut oil, sugar-free jam and cashews in a blender. It needs to be a strong one like a Ninja or NutriBullet. Grind to a smooth paste.

‘Snow White Topping’ Ingredients • 30g desiccated coconut • 80g coconut oil • 3tbsp almond milk • 50g agave syrup • 80g cashews Preparation: • Put the desiccated coconut, almond milk, coconut oil, agave syrup and cashews in a blender.

It needs to be a strong one like a Ninja or NutriBullet. Grind to a smooth paste.

26 DUBLIN GAZETTE 20 December 2018

ACCESSORIZE HEART FAIRISLE DOG JUMPER €15.90

Juliette Armand & Grande MD cosmetics Grande Gift Glam includes: 1 GRANDE LASH 2ml, 1 MASCARA (Black)and BLING Eyelash Curler €92

Carluccio’s Christmas Range - Biscotti

AVENE THERMAL WATER SPRAY 300ML LARGE SIZE €15

SPOTLIGHT LADIES GIFT SET BOOTS EXCLUSIVE RRP €50 VALUE €75

MONSOON FREDDIE FUR JACKET €157 Littlewoods Ireland Cath Kidston Boxed Squirrel Mug €15.99

MONSOON EYEMASK €13

Gym + Coffee Gift Kit €100 ACCESSORIZE REVERSIBLE SEQUIN SLIPPER BOOT €29.90

My Shining Armour Faux Fur Crimson Heart Pom Pom Keyring €32

diffusion.ie Gold Hawk Pewter Velvet Jacket €450

20 December 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 27

FRESH IDEAS FOR YOUR HOME AND WARDROBE BLOSS THE ETHICAL SILK CO.TEAL HANDPRINTED MULBERRY SILK ROBE €195 AND EYE MASK €30

HOME & STYLE

BeautyBITS

Vichy introduces new Dercos nutrients range VICHY is delighted to introduce DERCOS Nutrients range to its haircare franchise. DERCOS researchers have discovered that

ACCESSORIZE POM POM VELVET BALLERINA SLIPPER €19.90

behind luminous hair, lightweight fibre and fresh scalp, there is the right balance between its essential nutrients: omegas, proteins, antioxidants and vitamins. External factors such as pollution, hard tap water and UV Rays tend to disturb this balance of essential nutrients leaving the scalp to become oily and sensitive and leaving hair looking dull, feeling dehydrated and rough to touch.

To maintain the health balance, DERCOS laboratories has

REGATTA GREAT OUTDOORS BLACK LUDZ HAT €7.45

created DERCOS Nutrients. The formulas are based on highperformance natural actives to provide the right dose of hair nutrients, like quinoa bran rich in proteins, spirulina algae rich in antioxidant, acai berry rich in vitamins. Vichy has created a precise and balanced for each hair type – and nothing more: no silicone, no sulphate, and no parabens.

VICHY IDÉALIA CHRISTMAS GIFT SET €30

HAVE YOURSELF A COSY LITTLE

CHRISTMAS CHRISTMAS IS the cosiest time of the year, without a doubt. You have no excuse not to spend the day - or week - in your pyjamas, curled up with a cup of your favourite hot drink and watching those feel good movies.

We’ve put together a selection of some of our favourite treats on offer this holiday season to ensure you have the most comfortable Christmas imaginable, or to inspire you to give the gift of cosy on December 25.

LINDT TEDDY GIRL 100G €4.50

A gift of natural luxury WHETHER you’re looking for

fumery’s unique fragrances

the ultimate gift for your loved

paired with their luxurious

one, simple stocking filler or

Shea Butter Body Lotion

that secret Santa gift, The Bur-

and natural Hand and Body

ren Perfumery has something

Castile Soap, it is undoubtedly

for everyone on your list this

the ultimate gift. With seven

year.

individual perfumes to choose

The Burren Perfumery

boohoo.com OVERSIZED BOYFRIEND TINSEL JUMPER €30

MY SHINING ARMOUR Christian Lacroix B5 Curiosites Notebook €56

DEBLACA STERLING SILVER YOU HAVE MY HEART RING €85

from, Winter Woods, Autumn

Christmas gifting sets are sure

Harvest, Frond, Summer

to impress this festive season

Harvest, Spring Harvest, Man

and ensure your Christmas

of Aran and Ilaun, The Burren

shopping runs smoothly.

Perfumery has a unique

Want to treat a loved one this

fragrance to suit all loved ones

Christmas?

this Christmas.

Why not spoil them with

Each product in the gift set

the stunning gift set from The

is made on-site, by hand and in

Burren Perfumery (RRP €85 or

small batches from the highest

€90) With each set comprising

quality natural and organic

of one of The Burren Per-

ingredients.

28 DUBLIN GAZETTE 20 December 2018

MOTORS

WHAT’S NEW IN THE WORLD OF TRANSPORT

Renegade Jeep is an impressive new SUV

DECLAN GLYNN

THE new Jeep Renegade marks a series of firsts in the company’s history. The Renegade is Jeep’s first entry into the expanding and lucrative small SUV segment.

It is also the first FIAT Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) vehicle to be jointly developed by Italian and Ameri-can engineers and the first Jeep to be built in Europe but sold in the USA and across Europe too.

Built in Italy at the rejuvenated SATA plant in Melfi, the Renegade is sold in 100 markets globally and designers were challenged to come up with a look that would symbolise Jeep’s American heritage, while appealing to youthful and adventurous car buyers.

What they came up with was a look that is both rugged and tough, thanks to the brand’s classic sevenslot front grille, round headlamps and trapezoidal wheel-arch styling cues, but also fresh, unaggressive and utterly distinctive.

Equipment has been designed to boost onboard comfort. Advanced technology includes the intuitive Uconnect touchscreen for infotainment, with a choice between 5and 8.4-inch screens.

From the iconic sevenslot front grille to its strong stance, there is no denying that the Renegade is a proud member of the famous Jeep family.

X-icon rear lights enable the Renegade to be easily identified from afar, while strong Jeep-brand detailing inside the cabin is truly unique.

Three trim levels are available – Sport, Longitude and, range-topping Limited, while engine choices consist of 1.4-litre Turbo Multi-ai’ (140bhp)

and 1.6-litre E-torQ (110bhp) petrol units, and 1.6-litre (95 & 120bhp) or 2.0-litre (140bhp) M-jet diesel power-plants.

Transmission choices include a six-speed manual (2WD or 4WD), a dualclutch six-speed automatic (2WD only) and a sleek nine-speed automatic mated to Jeep’s renowned 4WD drivetrain.

On test this week was a new Jeep Renegade Limited 1.4-litre petrol, 2WD 6-speed manual finished in Granite Crystal metallic paint, with contrasting bright exterior mirror casings, roof rails and exhaust tips for a premium look.

S t a n d a rd fe a t u re s include 18” alloy wheels, 7” TFT high-definition driver information digital cluster dis-play, Polar Plunge grey leather upholstery with grey stitching and dark chrome interior inserts (black leather is also available).

Features It also features heated seats, heated multifunction leather steering wheel, front and rear parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning system, forward collision warning-plus system, air-conditioning and an electric parking brake, along with a whole host of comfort, safety and technology features to make every journey a pleasure.

Wi t h 1 4 0 b h p a n d 230Nm of torque available from the 1.4-litre petrol engine, swift performance is available when called upon.

The obligatory 0-100km/h sprint can be completed in just 10.9-seconds, on its way to a top speed (where permitted) of 180km/h.

Fuel consumption as low as 6.0l/100km is achiev-

Skoda ready to release the SCALA SKODA Ireland have revealed further details of the eagerly antici‑ pated SCALA compact hatchback, which replaces the previous RAPID Spaceback.

The SCALA arrives in Ireland next June and is longer, wider, higher and more spacious than the Rapid it replaces.

At first glance, the commanding exterior exudes confidence with clearly defined surfaces and alloy wheels up to18” in size which have been aerodynamically opti‑ mised to make the car more streamline.

New sculptural shapes, dynamic features and sharp lines lend the vehicle a dominant and authentic appearance.

The SCALA also fea‑ tures LED headlights and tail lights as standard with full‑LED versions available as an option, which for the first time, come with dynamic rear indicator signals.

On the inside, the modern look continues with the focal point being the infotainment display which measures up to 9.2” in size, making it

This new Jeep SUV features a host of attractive features, making it a compelling car for many reasons

able on a combined driving cycle, with emissions of 140g/km leading to an annual road tax of €280.

Opt for a diesel engine in 2WD guise and the annual road tax will drop to just €200.

I found my test car to be very solid and reassuring on a variety of road surfaces, while build quality is faultless throughout.

Excellent road manners, a fun driving experience and confident composure while cornering makes the Renegade a very easy SUV to live with and is sure to

appeal to drivers looking for an engaging, stylish and distinctive small SUV. Cabin space is yet another area that impresses, with ample head and legroom available thanks to the upright stance of the Renegade. Boot space

with the rear seats in place is a generous 351-litres, but this can be greatly increased by dropping the split-folding rear seat backs.

The new Jeep Renegade comes complete with a three-year, parts and

FACT BOX

1) Updated, compact SUV 2) 2WD or 4WD available 3) Manual or automatic 4) Petrol or diesel 5) Priced from €21,950 (ex-works)

labour warranty with roadside assistance, three-year paint defect warranty and an eight-year anti-perforation warranty for total peace of mind motoring.

Prices start at just €21,950 (ex-works) for the Sport model, €25,800 in Longitude specification, while my test car specification is priced from just €28,300 (ex-works) and offers excellent value for money.

For exploring new trails or heading out on the town, the new Jeep Renegade is ready, willing and able

the largest screen in its class.

The interior is also influenced by the VISION RS concept and combines ergonom‑ ics, emotiveness and spaciousness.

In addition, the SCALA will come comes as standard with a host of familiar simply clever features in‑cluding the umbrella in the driver’s door, the ice scraper in the fuel filler flap and the easy‑open cup holder.

Final pricing and specs will be confirmed in March.

20 December 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 29

CHALLENGE YOUR BRAIN...JUST FOR FUN!

CODEWORDS

You could advertise here

PUZZLES

SUDOKU EASY

MODERATE

SEE BELOW FOR DETAILS

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTIONS

DON’T FORGET TO CHECK BACK NEXT WEEK FOR THE SOLUTIONS TO THIS WEEK’S PUZZLES

WORD SEARCH

HOW TO SOLVE Codewords are like crossword puzzles - but have no clues! Instead, every letter of the alphabet has been replaced by a number, the same number representing the same letter throughout the puzzle.

All you have to do is decide which letter is represented by which number!

To start you off, we reveal the codes for two or three letters.

As you find letters, enter them in the key and into the grid.

Cross off the letters in the A to Z list.

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION

FIND THE HIDDEN WORDS blewit

morel

ceasars

oyster

chanterelle

puffball

dryads

porcini

false morel

reishi

hedgehog

shaggy mane

lions mane

sulphur shelf

maitake

truffle

milkcap

To advertise here please contact sales@dublingazette.com or call 01 6010240

30 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 20 December 2018

DUBLINGAZETTECLASSIFIEDS  WEST ALARMS

ROOFING

ROOFING

ARCHITECT

RECRUITMENT DVD TRANSFERS

INSURANCE CLAIMS

WINDOWS

20 December 2018 WEST  DUBLIN GAZETTE 31

WEST  DUBLINGAZETTECLASSIFIEDS

FOLLOW US TODAY ON OUR SOCIAL NETWORK Visit: Facebook: www.facebook.com/ DublinGazetteNewspapers Twitter: @DublinGazette

CONTACT RACHEL HALL AT RHALL@DUBLINGAZETTE.COM OR ON 60 10 240 GOT A STORY? Call our NEWS TEAM on 60 10 240

32 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 20 December 2018

20 December 2018 WEST  DUBLIN GAZETTE 33

FOOTBALL P38

THE BEST IN DUBLIN

SPORT

THE GOAL MILE: SOCCER: NOW in its 36th year, the Goal Christmas Mile, in aid of the global charity GOAL, has seen more than 275,000 runners take part in their Christmas day events. The concept is simple: turn up at one of dozens of events around the country, make a donation towards the charity, run your mile and make your family photo a little different this year.



GAZETTE

SOCCER P36

PAGE 35

LET DUBLIN GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS INFORM YOU OF THE HIGHLIGHTS AND SCORES OF YOUR FAVOURITE TEAMS BASKETBALL | THREE-WAY TIE AT TOP OF MEN’S SUPERLEAGUE

Killeen ices Neptune for crucial win  sport@dublingazette.com

TEMPLEOGUE pulled a win out of the fire against C and S Neptune on Saturday evening at Oblate Hall, running out 95-92 point winners after overtime in the men’s Super League.

Huge displays from Lehmon Colbert and Cian Heaphy saw Neptune take the lead down the stretch in regulation, before a Lorcan Murphy score tied the game up on the full-time buzzer at 85 points each.

Big scores from Colbert followed to put Neptune ahead in overtime but a crucial steal by Puff Summers saw him then head to the free throw line where he edged the hosts ahead.

Then it was Templeogue’s Jason Killeen who had ice in his veins as he ensured his side’s victory from the line.

Speaking afterwards, Killeen stated: “It feels absolutely fantastic to get that win.

“We knew they were a good side who were coming in on a big run and

they’re a bunch of young guys who don’t lack any confidence and have Lehmon in the middle to steady the ship. We knew what we were up against and they proved us right - it was a fantastic game.”

Over in UCD, meanwhile, Marian edged their way up the table as they took home a 93-78 point win over Griffith College Swords Thunder.

Despite the large crowd being wowed by the skill of Swords’ Elijah Mays, his 36-point contribution wasn’t enough for the visitors on the night.

“I don’t think the performance was great, but the result was really good,” reflected UCD’s Ioannis Liapakis afterwards.

“We knew it was going to be really difficult to stop Swords’ American, Elijah, as he’s averaging 30-35 points a game. Our goal was to stop everybody else.

“We did a good job at points, but unfortunately, between the third and the fourth quarter we fell asleep three

Templeogue’s Jason Killeen. Picture: Martin Doherty

of four times in our defence and they had some easy three point shots which kept them in the game and made it difficult.”

Pyrobel Killester bounced back from a 35-46 point deficit at half time to see out an 84-71 point win over DCU Saints in Clontarf.

Twenty-seven points from Royce

Williams helped his side overcome a determined Saints, whose stand out performer was Mike Bonaparte, finishing the game with 31 points.

The upshot of the weekend’s results sees Templeogue top ot the table alongside Belfast Star and Killester on 21 points with Tralee three points back but with a game in hand.

SPORT CONTACT INFO SPORTS EDITOR: Stephen Findlater sfindlater@dublingazette.com

For more information or to send in news and photos: sport@dublingazette.com Phone: 01 601 0240

34 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 20 December 2018

CLUB NOTES

ROUND

1

BALLYBODEN ST ENDA’S CONGRATULATIONS to all our Blue Stars hurlers and footballers who were awarded last week and well done to Paul Ryan who won hurler of the year.

The Boden Theatre Group is in the process of writing a show for Ballyboden St Enda’s 50th anniversary.

We are looking for stories that people may have about the club, that will serve as inspiration. If anyone has stories that may contribute to the show, please contact Mick Keville at mickkkeville@yahoo.ie.

Congratulations to our senior hurlers and minor camogie team who won team of the month for October and December at the Echo Awards night last week.

Congratulations to our Minor A’s on their Camogie Championship victory over Kilmacud on Sunday.

The 50th Anniversary 2019 Calendar has arrived at the club.... an unbelievable production of photos and history of the last 50 years...

Player of the Match Katie limited edition. Get yours behind the bar!

Murray and Finally, we would like to thank all our members Captain Sarah for their support in 2018 and wish everyone Murphya after Happy Christmas.

Clontarf’s La-

GFC ST MARY’S CLUB membership will be due from 1st January 2019, rates for 2019, Adult Playing Member €140 3rd level student/ Unemployed Player €75; non-Playing or Associate Member €75; Juvenile €60; Senior Citizen €20; family Membership €180.

Membership can be paid online through Club webpage and Facebook page.

National Club Draw tickets are now available at €10 each, every penny of every ticket sold stays in the club.

There are some fabulous prizes including a new Renault Clio. Contact Brendan Murray or JoAnne Reilly.

Annual Christmas Bag Pack takes place Christmas week, in Dunnes Stores Saggart, if you have a spare hour or two please submit your name on the roster being drafted by Brendan Murray and Carol McGlynn at present.

Old folks party will

dies IFC win..

Picture: GAApics. com

take place in club house on January 5, 2019. Volunteers / helpers will be very much appreciated, contact any Janet Murray or any committee member for details.

Amended Date for the Adult Player Awards night, January 19, 2019.

Pitch is closed until further notice due to repairs works which have commenced.

Lotto numbers drawn this week were 14-17-25-27. There was no Jackpot winner so next week’s Jackpot will be €6400.

There was one Match 3 winner, Siobhan Hurley c/o Beirne Howard.

Next week’s Match 3 will be worth €100 win/share.

You can now follow the LocalLotto link on our Facebook page by using the Blue “Shop Now” button and website to play Lotto online.

To all our Members and Friends we wish you a Happy Christmas and a Peaceful New Year.

SWIMMING: SUPERB SERIES OF IRISH SHORT COURSE RESULTS

Hyland and Coyne raise bar in China

Tallaght pair produce a string of lifetime bests in Huangzhou at the world short course championships as performance director Rudd hails the ability of Ireland’s team to push new boundaries  DAVE DONNELLY

sport@dublingazette.com

TALLAGHT’S Brendan Hyland set two new Irish butterfly records as the Irish team raised the bar across the board at the World Short Course Swimming Championships in Huangzhou, China last week.

Another Tallaght native, Niamh Coyne, set two personal bests in her first-ever senior international meet, while UCD’s Darragh Greene also set a new Irish record in the 200m breaststroke.

In addition, Hyland and Greene were part of the 4x100m relay team that knocked an astonishing 18 seconds off the previous Irish record, and set a new Irish record in the 4x50m medley.

The Irish Championships finished up a week earlier with 18 new records set and the fivestrong team in China were quick to add to the momentum.

Hyland was first out of the blocks on day one, setting a new Irish record of 1:53.19 in the heats of the 200m butterfly, knocking three places off his previous record.

That time left Hyland tenth in the world overall but, with only the top eight qualifying, he narrowly missed out on a place in the final and a chance to break the record once more.

The following day saw Hyland repeat the trick in the 100m butterfly, finishing in 51.54 to carve 0.66 off Conor Brines’ 2016 record but, despite winning his heat, he again missed out on the final.

‘I was pretty excited,” Hyland said after setting the 200m record.

“I knew I was doing well as I could see a lot of clear water around me, I knew it would be a fast time so when I saw 1:53.1 I was very happy.

“It’s pretty cool – tenth in the world sounds nice. Growing up

swimming in Dublin my whole life, to be tenth in the world, to think of where I’ve come from, it’s really good.

“

To come out of a World Championship with a 93% lifetime best strike rate and a 100% conversion rate from heat to semi to final is outstanding.

”

“It’s given me confidence and hopefully I can push on from here.”

Longford native Greene, who swims out of UCD, set personal bests in both the 100m and 200m

Brendan Hyland produced a series of lifetime bests in China. Picture: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile

breaststroke.

His 200m heat time of 2:07.60 was three seconds better than his previous best, and bettered Andrew Bree’s 11-year-old Irish record by .35 of a second.

Hyland and Greene were part of the four-man medley team, with Conor Ferguson and Shane Ryan, to set an Irish record of 1:35.05, knocking .58 off the time set at last year’s European Championships.

The same foursome regrouped on day four for the 4x100m relay and smashed the previous Irish record, set in 1991, by 18 seconds, setting a time of 3:27.23.

“This was our second time racing together at a major championship, so just to get the experience is what we need heading into the Summer at World Championships, where we hope to qualify the relay for Tokyo 2020.”

Coyne, fresh from her silver medal performance in the 100m breaststroke at the World Youth Olympics in Buenos Aires in October, showed good progress in her first senior international meet.

The 17-year-old set personal bests of 31.42 in the 50m breaststroke on day one, 1:07.19 in the 100m breaststroke on day four and 2:26.64 in the 200m on day five, bettering her previous best by three seconds.

Elsewhere on the Irish team, Shane Ryan made history as he claimed Ireland’s first-ever World Championship medal as he took bronze in the 50m backstroke.

The 24-year-old’s time of 22.76 is the ninth-best time ever recorded in a World Championships event.

“I don’t think that we could have expected much more from this group of athletes,” said National Performance Director John Rudd.

“To come out of a World Championships with a 93% lifetime best strike rate and a 100% conversion rate from heat to semi to final is outstanding.”

20 December 2018 WEST  DUBLIN GAZETTE 35

GOAL MILE: CHRISTMAS DAY EVENT SET FOR 36TH EDITION

LOI SHORTS

FAI’s VdeP donation FAI CEO John Delaney along with Republic of Ireland Women’s National Team manager Colin Bell were on hand to present Ireland bags filled with jerseys, footballs, scarfs and other merchandise to Liam Casey, East Region President, St Vincent De Paul, at the St Vincent De Paul depot on Sean McDermott Street, Dublin.

The gifts are part of an annual Christmas donation for families in need. They are pictured with volunteers and helpers, at the St Vincent De Paul depot on Sean McDermott Street.

Picture: Seb Daly/Sportsfile

PAT’S POWERED BY MIELE

Members of Lucan Harriers enjoying the Goal Mile last year

Over 275,000 all set for annual Goal Mile  JAMES HENDICOTT

HOWEVER you envisage your Christmas morning going, your plans might not have included getting out and running a mile in a park somewhere in the city.

For an increasing number of people, though, this is exactly the plan.

Now in its 36th year, the Goal Christmas Mile, in aid of the global chari t y G OA L , h a s se e n more than 275,000 runners take part in their Christmas day events.

The charity work across emergency response, child protection, health and livelihood.

The concept is simple: turn up at one of dozens of events around the country, make a donation towards the charity, run your mile, and make your family photo a little different this year. It’s not

competitive, and you can set off at any time that the Goal Mile remains open.

The event has become substantial enough that runners taking part over the years have now covered the equivalent of a run to the moon, roughly 400 million metres of Christmas day jogging.

A host of Dublin events include some nice opportunities to explore some of the city’s best sporting facilities. Both the Morton Athletics Stadium and the National Indoor Arena are amongst the hosts.

There are also events in Irishtown Stadium, Herbert Park, Eamonn Ceannt Park, at the Pope’s Cross in Phoenix Park, at Stradbrook and Suttonians rugby clubs, and at Lucan Harriers and Tallaght Athletics Clubs.

The mile has its origins in a 1982 event hosted by the late Noel Carroll in Phoenix Park. The number of national locations is expected to be around 130 this year.

The mile also has its own little piece of Irish athletics history, with the Irish national record for the 4 x 1 mile record set in a fundraiser for the event back in 1985.

Middle distance runners Eamonn Coghlan, Marcus O’Sullivan, Frank O’Mara and Ray Flynn set a time of 15:49:08, which still stands today.

“Everyone can go at their own pace – walking or jogging – you don’t have to be sporty or fit,” the charity say of the event.

“Children are not just having fun but also learning about the importance of helping others and the plight of children in other

parts of the world affected by conflict, hunger, and disease. “ G e t t i n g i nvo l ve d couldn’t be easier. No need to register. Or collect donations in advance. Just turn up on the day and give what you can to GOAL. “Every mile really does count! It’s thanks to GOAL Mile organis-

ers and participants like you that millions of euro have been raised to support GOAL’s work in the developing world over the past three and a half decades. And countless lives have been saved and improved.”

Learn more by visiting Goal’s website at www.goalglobal.org and searching ‘goal mile’.

ST PATRICK’S Athletic’s bid to break back into Europe continues with the addition of strikers Brandon Miele from Shamrock Rovers and Mikey Drennan from Sligo Rovers.

The Saints parted company with Liam Buckley following a disappointing run last season and brought in former Bray Wanderers boss Harry Kenny.

Under Kenny, the Athletic will train during the days in a bid to keep pace with the likes of Shamrock Rovers, Dundalk and Cork City.

Tallaght native Miele had

a year to run of his deal with Rovers, and both he and Drennan, have professional football experience both in England and in the League of Ireland.

“They’re top quality players, both of them,” said Kenny. “I’m very surprised they were available, and we’re really thrilled to get the two of them in.”

The Saints have announced a new two-year deal for Ireland Under-19 goalkeeper Brian Maher.

The Dubliner will provide competition for Brendan Clarke and Barry Murphy.

Shels bring in O’Hanlon SHELBOURNE continue to build ahead of their 2019 promotion push with the addition of former Liverpool trainee Alex O’Hanlon.

The 22-year-old midfielder, who spent a season with St Patrick’s Athletic in 2017, was most recently with Glentoran in Northern Ireland.

He joins former Saints teammates Conan Byrne and Ryan Brennan in the dressing room at Shels, who have set their sights on a return to the top level.

O’Hanlon came through the ranks with St Kevin’s Boys before signing for Liverpool as a 16-year-old in 2011.

The Dubliner spent five seasons with the Reds but was unable to force his way into the first team and returned to Ireland.

He made 17 appearances for the Athletic, scored three times, before signing a half-year deal with the Glens in Belfast.

O’Hanlon, who represented Ireland up to Under-21 level, was on trial with Grimbsy Town in the summer but has opted to return to Dublin.

36 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 20 December 2018

CLUB NOTES

ROUND

2

SOCCER: TALLAGHT MAN PLOTS COURSE FOR U-21 SUCCESS

LUCAN SARSFIELDS WELL done to the Juniorthi A laThursday so CHRISTMAS draw please return tickets ASAP. Club will be open at 7.30pm each evening for people to drop up tickets.

The aim was to only issue all households/registered families’ one book (10 tickets) to sell, if everyone makes a big effort just to sell one book this will be a huge success.

It is a vital fundraiser for the club to ensure we can keep supporting our 140+ teams’ activities. We do ask Mentors to remind parents and members, players and supporters to return tickets ASAP. The Camogie section organised a presentation night for our All Ireland Winners, we were delighted to present Emer Keenan (capt) and Emma O’Flynn a memento for their achievements this year with the Dublin Premier team.

Our deepest sympathies to the Twomey family on the tragic loss of Jerome Snr (Gerry). RIP. Lotto: There was no winner of the lotto on December 13; numbers were 11, 12, 20 and 21.

Next week’s jackpot: €7,800, draw will be managed by Frank Fleming and is sponsored by Matt Reilly Autoparts.

Lucky Dips Winners: Tommy Alan Greg (€50), Ann Greaney, Michael McAndrew, Larry Fitzmorris, Kathleen Roche. Play Online here, Or Tickets can be purchased at the Club, or in Kenny’s Vesey Arms.

Senior Footballers are organising a rowathon to raise funds for the club next Saturday in Liffey Valley SC 1pm to 4pm. Support very much appreciated.

A big thanks to Jackie Foley who organised the wonderful Christmas Craft Fair.

Reminder AGP pitches are now closed for the Winter.

Sars Stars – ‘GAA for All’ Tuesdays in FOLLOWING defeat toAirlie Heights, all welScoil Mhuire, Naomh come,O 5pm-5:45pm.

Lucan District CREDIT UNION Academy takes a break for Christmas, after a wonderful visit from Santa who managed to make it despite the orange weather warning.

DJ every Saturday Night in the club bar from 9.30pm onwards. Bus will be provided- numbers permitting, its needs to be booked before the Saturday and pre-pay (€5) at the bar. 085 872 8338.

Zumba classes Tuesdays 7.30pm 8.30pm. €8 per class, €5 for students.

25 Card Drive every Friday in the Bar, 9.00pm. Entry: €5 per person.

1st Prize: €50, 2nd Prize if 3 or more tables. Everyone Welcome.

CÚPLA FOCAL’ Mondays, 8pm to 9pm.

Bingo Wednesdays 8:30pm.

Club Shop is closed now for the festive period.

ROUND TOWER, CLONDALKIN

Stephen Kenny during his time with Dundalk. Picture: Eoin Noonan/Sportsfile

Kenny straight to work LSL SUNDAY SENIOR  DAVE DONNELLY

sport@dublingazette.com

TALLAGHT’S Stephen Kenny will take charge of nine of the Republic of Ireland Under-21s’ European Championship qualifying games before taking over the senior manager’s job in the summer of 2020.

The former Dundalk and Shamrock Rovers manager was confirmed as under-21s boss last month with a succession plan in place for him to take over from Mick McCarthy after Euro 2020.

The 47-year-old Kenny will spend the next yearand-a-half familiarising himself with international football and the players coming through the sys-

tem before taking on the main role.

He now knows the opposition he’ll face in qualification after the draw in Nyon, with Italy, Sweden, Iceland, Luxembourg and Armenia making up a tough, but not insurmountable, group.

Ireland’s fixtures have been frontloaded, ensuring Kenny will miss only the final game – a tough away trip to the top seed Italians – before handing over the reins to his successor.

The new crop of under21s have faced both Italy and Sweden in qualifying for the 2017 Under-19 Euros, where both beat Italy before Ireland were pipped to qualification in defeat to the Swedes.

Italy qualified for the most recent under-19 Euros as Ireland came second in a group containing Portugal, and Kenny is under no illusions about how difficult a task it will be.

“There are a number of teams in our group with great pedigree,” Kenny said in reaction to the draw.

“Italy got to the U19 European Championship finals recently so to test ourselves against these teams is going to be a great experience.”

The two hosts – Hungary and Slovenia – qualify automatically for the 12-team tournament alongside the nine group winners, meaning there will only be one spot at

the final left for group runners-up.

With the pedigree of Sweden and Iceland in the group, it’s unlikely that Ireland’s group will produce one of the two best runners-up to contest the play-off, so it’s win or bust for Kenny.

Kenny’s first game will be the relatively straightforward visit of Luxembourg to Tallaght Stadium on March 24 of next year, the first of seven fixtures in a gruelling calendar year.

Ireland face Armenia at home on September 6 before travelling to Sweden four days later, while a home tie with Italy and trip to Iceland await in October.

“There are only two

play-off spots for qualification which in reality means we’ve got to finish top to qualify. For us to do that, we’ll have to achieve something extraordinary.

“It’s great to start the campaign in March at home and four home games next year for us which is exciting for the players.

“We won’t have much preparation time before the first game but that is the challenge and I’m really looking forward to it.

“I need to go out and see all of the players across Ireland, England and Scotland to see which players are in form and who could come into the squad for March. “ T h e wo r k s t a r t s straight away.”

Abbotstown’s new hockey base

THE National Sports Campus in Abbotstown is set to become the new training centre for the Irish senior hockey teams following news a new water-based hockey pitch will be laid there.

Sport Ireland has commenced the replacement of the current sand-based hockey pitch on the Sport Ireland National Sports Campus with a new Polytan Polygras Toyko GT surface. This is the same surface that will be used at the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games and the 2022 World Cup. It is expected that the new facility will be complete and ready for use in April 2019 at a cost of €600,000.

The new pitch will be constructed by Sport IreIrish internationals Deirdre Duke, Kirk Shim- land with day-to-day management of the facility mins, Nikki Evans and Lena Tice with Shane Ross, John Treacy and Pat O’Connor. Picture: becoming the responsibility of the Sport Ireland National Sports Campus operations company.

Dan Sheridan/Inpho

Chairman of Sport Ireland’s National Sports Campus Committee, Patrick O’Connor, said: “This development of this new pitch alleviates the need for Irish teams to travel abroad to train, giving them access to the latest in pitch technology here in Ireland.

“This will further reduce hockey’s reliance on club-based facilities for training, which are not always readily available, and will make the Sport Ireland National Sports Campus an attractive proposition to travelling teams ahead of the Tokyo Games.”

The next major event on the agenda for the Irish women’s team is the Hockey Series Final, which takes place in Ireland in June 2019, with the men’s equivalent taking place in France in the same month.

20 December 2018 WEST  DUBLIN GAZETTE 37

GAELIC GAMES: WESTMANSTOWN CLUB DINNER

BASKETBALL Picture: Martin Doherty

The Garda club’s “founding fathers” John Fitzgerald, Brian Fahy, Oliver Hanly, Dan Buggy, Aidan McNulty, Phil Cahill (Club Chairman), George Kyne, Willie McGee, Mick O’Connor and Jim Murphy.

Garda celebrations

G

ARDA Westmanstown GAA recently celebrated 2018 in style at their annual dinner and awards night. Marco Nuvoloni was honoured as club person of the year at the event while Damien Quirke was named the intermediate player of the year. Ellie Haran got the ladies young player of the year, Theresa McIntyre the ladies player of the year with Peter McNamara the male young player of the year. Karl Hemeryck was named the Junior Player of the Year.

Maria Flynn and Elaine Ferguson

Award winners from the night, left; right, the ladies team of 1998

Michael and Maura Collins

Liffey Celtics set to enjoy Christmas number one spot in Super League COURTYARD Liffey Celtics will certainly be celebrating a happy Christmas this year as they head into the festive break unbeaten at the top of the Women’s Super League.

Mark Byrne’s charges have now come through eight league games unscathed, thanks to a comprehensive 93-59 point win over bottom of the table NUIG Mystics on Saturday evening.

Speaking afterwards and reflecting on the season so far, Byrne stated: “We’re really happy to sign off the year with a win. I’m happy in particular with a good first half performance, but credit to NUIG, they never stopped fighting and the second half was a lot tougher.

“To be honest, we’re not focused on our win-loss record at the moment and only thinking about what’s next - Waterford away - which is going to a tough one.”

The win puts them three points clear of chasers DCU Mercy and Ambassador UCC Glanmire with a gap back to Fr Mathews in fourth place. Added to that, Liffey Celtics have a game in hand.

They return to action in the new year on January 5 with that date against Maxol WIT Wildcats.

38 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 20 December 2018

ROUND

CLUB NOTES

3

ST PAT’S, PALMERSTOWN THE Christmas Draw in association with the Palmerstown House takes place on Sunday, December 23. Tickets available in the Palmerstown House.

The Battle of the Giants will be in Glenaulin Park on Saturday 29 December at 1pm featuring The Golden Oldies v The Pretenders. Also featuring are the Gaelic4Mothers & Others. All are welcome with proceeds going to Cancer Research.

The numbers in the Lotto draw this week were 4, 7, 27 and 28. There was no jackpot winner. We had two match 3 winners – Olivia O’Brien and Eddie Farrelly who won €100 each.

The jackpot next week will be €7,800. The draw takes place on Sunday night in the Palmerstown House at 10pm. Tickets available online at https:// www.locallotto.ie/play_newa.asp?ll_id=1483#Anchor and from SuperValu, Palmerstown House, Manor Hair Studios, Mullingar House, and Chapelizod Post Office.

Many thanks to all our ticket sellers and supporters. This is an important fundraiser for the club and your support is appreciated.

Dublin ladies football star Olwen Carey was on hand to present Clodagh McCarthy with the U-8 most improved player prize at St Mark’s last week

ST MARK’S THE CLUB would like to wish all its Members and the wider Community a Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year.

We would like to thank all our Members, Volunteers, Players and sponsors for all their work and Support during the past year.

Thank you to all who supported the Club Christmas Draw held on Saturday, it was a great success. Results on Facebook.

The Club Shop Christmas Opening Times: Saturday 10am to 1pm.

Academy runs Monday and Wednesday 6 to 7pm St Mark’s NS Astro (on Christmas break). Music every Saturday in the club.

Music this Saturday by Kevin Walker.

Live sport every weekend. Set dancing

WANDERERS

classes every Monday from 8pm.

Bingo Thursday night, starts at 8.45, open to everyone.

Slimming World every Tuesday at 5pm and 7pm and Wednesday morning at 9am in the main lounge. Weight Watchers every Tuesday morning at 9.30am.

All the above will take a break or have alternative dates for Christmas period.

Please continue to support the club lotto (Lotto will return in the New Year).

Tickets €2 each or three for €5, Jackpot €9,400 - not won. Numbers: 11, 14, 20, 26. €50 Winners 1. Ann Petersen 2. Chris Rooney 3. Tara McCarthy 4. Ann + Ann 5.

Bridie Killeen c/o Bingo 6. Mags c/o Will Condron.

LOTTO: no winner of this week’s Jackpot. Numbers drawn were 15-25-31. €100 goes to Alan Dalton, Mari Brennan, Gavin Rooney and Darragh Healy.

We will take a two-week break from the Lotto and return on 6th of January, where the Jackpot will be €6,000.

Our Lotto is now online through our website or Facebook page.

The club would like to wish all its members a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

If you are interested in playing for our adult men’s teams next season, please contact Dave on 0877256754.

If you are interested in joining our ladies team next season, please contact Dionne on 0879315556 for more info.

Our juvenile training is now back on Wednesday evenings, and along with the Nursery on Saturday mornings. Please contact Fergal on 0876213142 for more details.

FOOTBALL: FORMER DUBS HERO KICKS 0-10

Boden under by the sharp shooting Quinn AFL DIVISION ONE FINAL St Vincent’s 0-18 Ballyboden St Enda’s 3-4  JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com

ST VINCENT’S proved the more effic ient attacking force as they overcame Ballyboden St Enda’s in the AFL1 final at St Margarets.

In a rare year in which neither side made the championship final, the late-season league finale offered a chance for both sides to salvage something from their season.

In a n o d d l y to p sy turvy battle, it was the Marino men’s more convincing second half performance – with Tomas Quinn starring – which proved the difference.

The effervescent Quinn hit 0-10 over the course of the match but Vincent’s had been forced into comeback mode from early on, after Ballyboden hit an ominous looking glut of early goals.

Warren Egan hit the net twice inside the first ten minutes with Donagh McCabe adding another but, from then on, Boden seemed to hit the off switch, and St Vincent’s took charge.

In fact, Boden did

Ballyboden St Enda’s Darren O’Reilly on the attack. Picture: John Kirwan

have a couple of other goal scoring opportunities, and despite having let in three early, a fine performance by Michael Savage in the Vincent’s goal was matched only

by Quinn at the other end of the pitch.

The former Dublin man hit 0-7 by half time as Vincent’s narrowed the mid-stage break to a bizarre-looking 3-1 to 0-9 in Ballyboden’s favour.

MINOR D Faughs Celtic add to their trophy haul

FAUGHS Celtic celebrated their Dublin Minor D camogie championship success last week when they edged out Na Fianna at Abbotstown.

They won out on a 4-3 to 1-3 scoreline with Katie O’Brien netting a couple of goals while Kelly Laird and Sarah Heeran got one a piece. Aoife Campbell and Emily O’Brien grabbed points.

Picture: ilivephotos.com

In torrid conditions, the south side club could add only three more point in the second half.

St Vincent’s were far more consistent, with points for Cormac Diamond and three more f ro m Q u i n n h e l p i n g them on the way to what ultimately proved a fairly straightforward win against their fading rivals.

Ballyboden had won the same contest by two

points in the league earlier in the season, but Vincent’s hammering of Cuala at the league semifinal stage was perhaps more indicative of form.

As well as Quinn, familiar faces in Ger Brennan and Shane Carthy were particularly inf luential in helping Vincent’s stabilize after their poor start. By the time they edged in front, the title only looked likely to go one way.

20 December 2018 WEST  DUBLIN GAZETTE 39

HURLING: NEW DUBLIN BOSS RACKS UP TWO WINS IN WALSH CUP

Kenny’s reign up and running in upbeat fashion WALSH CUP GROUP STAGES  JAMES HENDICOTT

sport@dublingazette.com

THE DUBLIN HURLERS have made a solid start to life under former Cuala boss Mattie Kenny, winning both of their opening two rounds of the preseason Walsh Cup, against Carlow and Offaly.

A trip to Carlow away for Kenny’s opening contest on a cold Tuesday night was nip and tuck for much of the game, with Dublin coming good in the closing stages after Carlow had pulled back a halftime deficit.

Naomh Fionnbarra man Eamonn Dillon’s 13th minute goal off the back of a pass from the impressive Fintan McGibb was the difference at half time, as Dublin led 1-8 to 0-8.

The half had ebbed and flowed for Dublin, however, with the boys in blue enjoying a dominant period just before the middle of the half in which they scored 1-3 without reply, and then shipping eight consecutive points.

John Hetherton’s free taking added four points from frees before half time, and he was to end with 0-10, including 0-8 from placed balls.

Carlow had pulled themselves back

1-12 each with just 13 minutes left of the contest, but Dublin looked the fitter of the two sides and pulled away from there on.

McGibb was at the heart of it again, as he finished from close range in the 55th minute, adding to points from Caolan Conway and Hetherton to deliver a comfortable win for the Dubs, 2-21 to 1-16.

Kenny hinted at an exploratory period in his early days as Dublin boss when he made five changes over the weekend in the side to face Offaly at Parnell Park.

Unlike the Carlow game, this one looked fairly comfortably throughout, though the final margin of victory was not all that different in a game made more difficult by soggy conditions underfoot.

Dublin had led 0-10 to 0-5 after a slightly uninspiring first half in which Cian Boland and Dillon stood out.

Dillon could have added a second half goal, firing narrowly wide after the break, but Dublin continued to rack up the points in a more open second half, ultimately coming out 0-27 to 0-18 winners.

There was a chance for Kenny to see a good deal of his bench over the course

Meath edge out Dubs in Sean Cox challenge

Former Cuala manager Mattie Kenny

of that second period, while Donal Burke, Treacy, Dillon, Hetherton and Boland all hit 0-4, and Conor Burke and Fergal Whitely added another 0-2 each.

“A good honest effort from all the lads. In general they were trying to do the right thing with the ball most of the times and set up some nice scoring opportunities.They’re the sort of things we’re going to be working on going into the New Year,” Kenny said

of the games.

The departure of both David Treacy and Donal Burke with injuries in the Offaly game will be of some modest concern for Kenny, but overall there are plenty of promising signs from his very early reign.

The double victory leaves the Dubs top of their Walsh Cup group, with only Laois to come in the group stage, early in the New Year.

Barrog braced for arrival of Dubs Stars carnival DUB STARS  sport@dublingazette.com

Kilmacud Crokes Paul Mannion was named Dublin SFC player of the year.

Picture: Frances Mullin

FOOTBALL

NAOMH Barrog will host the 2018 Dublin Bus Dubs Stars on Saturday with the heroes of the club championships taking on a Dublin senior selection in both football and hurling on Saturday, December 22.

The football clash will get under way at 12pm, followed up by the hurling at 1.30pm with plenty of festive cheer on offer.

Kilmacud Crokes, as county champs, form the largest representation of the footballers, particularly in the backlines. Goalkeeper David Nestor made a crucial penalty save in

the Dublin final and he takes up the number one jersey in front of club mates Liam Flatman and Andrew McGowan in the full-back line.

Cian O’Connor at righthalf-back, midfielder Craig Dias, half-forward Shane Horan and the championship’s player of the year Paul Mannion make for seven Crokes players in the line-up.

Jude’s also have a big contingent with Chris Guckian, Tom Lahiff, Mark Sweeney and Kevin McManamon bolstering the side.

Thomas Davis’ Adam Fallon had the left cornerback spot; Ballyboden St Enda’s Basquel boys Colm

and Ryan will be employed further up the pitch while free-taker supreme Dean Rock is another star turn.

For the hurling, county champions Ballyboden St Enda’s and runners-up Kilmacud Crokes both have significant numbers in the Stars line-up.

Both clubs have six players in the starting selection with two more each among the subs.

Cuala have been awarded two positions in the starting 15 – Darragh O’Connell at wing-back and David Treacy in the half-forward line.

St Vincent’s John Hetherton completes the selection at centre-forward.

HOSTS Meath produced a late scoring surge at the finish to edge out Dublin 0-16 to 1-11 in the Sean Cox fundraising challenge at Pairc Tailteann, Navan on Sunday.

The Royals kicked the last four points of this well-contested duel to snatch victory front of a crowd of around 5,000 with many more having bought tickets to contribute to the fundraising event.

Dublin began with four of the side that started this year’s All-Ireland SFC final: Eoin Murchan, Brian Fenton, Brian Howard and Niall Scully.

Dublin led after seven minutes with Stephen Smith on target twice but with the returning Mickey Newman hitting four points it was the home side who led 0-8 to 0-5 at the interval.

Both sides ran their bench in the second half but a Robbie McDaid goal looked to have put Dublin in the driving seat before Meath slotted four points in-a-row with Bryan McMahon, Niall Kane and Newman securing the win for Andy McEntee’s men.

The match was for Seán Cox, a St Peter’s of Dunboyne clubman who was left with brain injuries following an attack outside Anfield when he was assaulted by a Roma fan less than an hour before kickoff at the Champions League tie in April 2018.

GazetteSPORT DECEMBER 20-26, 2018

ALL OF YOUR WEST DUBLIN SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 33-39

GARDA’S CELEBRATION GAELIC GAMES:

Westmanstown thronged to toast a superb year for the club. SEE P13

GOAL MILE ATHLETICS: Annual Christmas run set to see over quarter of a million get out and active on the big day.

SEE P35

KENNY REIGN’S WINNING START

HURLING: New Dublin boss begins his time in the role with a pair of Walsh Cup wins for a positive mood ahead of the Dub Stars. SEE P39

Find us on

PICK US UP

EVERY THURSDAY!

Keep reading, keep recycling – thank you

Dublin stars abound at RTE’s sports awards  CÓILÍN DUFFY

sport@dublingazette.com

DUBLINERS were to the fore at Sunday’s RTÉ Sports Awards with local connections to three of the five awards, with Leinster and Ireland’s Johnny Sexton scooping the Sportsperson of the Year; Firhouse man Graham Shaw picking up Manager of the Year; and the Ireland women’s Hockey team, with plenty of Dubliners on board taking the Team of the Year award.

Sexton scooped the top individual accolade after a magnificent year for both club and country in which he starred for Ireland as they won only the ir third ever Grand Slam, had a series win over Australia, and ended the year with a first win against New Zealand on home soil.

At club level he played a pivotal role in Leinster claiming an unprecedented European Champions Cup and Guinness Pro14 double.

“I’d like to thank all my teammates and coaches, and the Irish coaches who are top class, World class, and they make your job a little bit easier,” the Leinster out-half said.

The Rathgar man added: “You feel bad accepting individual awards as a number 10.

You are meant to be the guy who sits in the background and try and help control the team. I don’t think I should be getting individual awards,

Johnny Sexton with the RTE 2018 Sportsperson of the Year award. Picture: RTE Inset, in action against Bath last Saturday.

Picture: Martin Doherty

“You feel bad accepting individual awards as a

number 10. You are meant to be the guy who sits in the background and try and help control the team” because it’s the other guys that make me look good.”

Teamwork The highly-coveted RTÉ Sport Team of the Year Award was voted for by the viewing public with the Irish women’s hockey team honoured after their World Cup silver-medal winning

exploits.

It was a side packed with Dubliners with Railway Union’s Grace O ’Fl a n a ga n , Mo n ks town’s Chloe Watkins, Pembroke’s Gillian Pinder and Emily Beatty, Loreto’s Hannah Matthews, Nicci Daly and Ali Meeke, UCD graduates Deirdre Duke and Katie Mullan and current

student Lena Tice all on the squad.

Their head coach Graham Shaw was named RTÉ Sport Manager of the Year.

The Firhouse native said, “This is a huge moment for me personally and for our sport,” said Shaw afterwards.

“I’ve got a spec ial group of people there.

They train really hard and work hard each other. It was our first World Cup. “To enter a major competition and perform the way they performed and show the level of composure and togetherness was something to be very, very proud of.

“We love a challenge.

And the challenge now

is the Olympic Games.

We ’ l l a p p ro a c h t h a t head on and look forward to it.”

Other award winners on the night included Rhys McClenaghan who was honoured with the ‘Young Sportsperson of the Year’ award, with Irish soccer legend Ray Houghton inducted into the Hall of Fame.