Dublin Gazette: West Edition

DublinGazette 

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DECEMBER 19-26, 2019

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IN THE VULTURES’ SIGHTS...

r series, EXCLUSIVE: In the last part of ou best we focus on your rights, and how to 4-15 engage with the legal processes P1

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West Edition FREE

THE LATEST NEWS & SPORT FROM SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL AREA

FOOTBALL: Dessie

Farrell brings major pedigree to the top job with Dublin’s senior footballers after U-21 and minor success. SEE P32

HAPPY CHRISTMAS

OUR NEXT EDITION IS OUT ON FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27

Find us on Keep reading, keep recycling – thank you

Air we go ... up on the Santa Express

PILOTS Timo Rebel and Colin O’ Neill welcomed Matthew Sadat into the cabin of their plane when CityJet flew a special Santa Express flight over Dublin.

Matthew was one of more than 30 children from Temple Street Children’s Hospital, and their families, for a very special trip above the capital, with everyone treated to seasonal treats, Christmas songs, and all the fun of the very festive season.

Picture: Maxwell’s

SPORT

We’d like to thank all of our loyal readers and advertisers for their support this year, and wish each and every one of you a Happy and Peaceful Christmas, with good will to all.

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Worry over rise in attacks on cyclists PADRAIG CONLON A LOCAL representative has proposed a new approach to eradicate the scourge of bicycle theft in Dublin.

Last week two Dublin cyclists, Yaman Umuroglu and Liam Molloy, shared their horrific stories of how they were attacked on the Grand Canal cycle path

in separate incidents by teenagers with metal bars.

According to the most recent figures 3,929 bicycles were reported stolen in Dublin in 2018, and of those only 286 were recovered.

Now Fianna Fail Dublin South West TD and party spokesperson on Dublin, John Lahart, has written to Minister Shane

Ross this week calling for the immediate establishment of a new national bike register allowing cyclists register their bike with an Garda Siochana.

Lahart believes this would be an effective anti-theft measure and following the recent violent attacks could act as a successful deterrent.

CONTINUES ON PAGE 2

Amanda is chief of Girl Guides

A LUCAN Girl Guide Leader has been appointed Chief Commissioner of Irish Girl Guides (IGG).

Amanda O’Sullivan, who has been an IGG Leader in Lucan since 1994, has already held several high-profile posts in the organisation.

These have included Eastern Region CommisSEE PAGE 3 sioner.

2 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 19 December 2019

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NEW APPROACH TO ERADICATE SCOURGE OF BICYCLE THEFT

TD calls for new national bike register after attacks FROM PAGE 1

“In recent days, we have heard from a number of people who have been violently attacked and robbed by bike thieves,” Deputy Lahart said.

“This is increasingly prevalent along Dublin’s canal, a popular cycling route with commuters.

“One man shared his story of being attacked by a gang of youths with metal rods, before they stole his e-bike.

“This must have been a terrifying experience, and not one which any person should face on their way into or out of work.”

“With the rise of e-bikes, which tend to have a higher resale value than conventional bikes, this trend is unlikely to reverse,

unless strong action is taken.

“In addition to a stronger police presence on the ground, we need measures that are specifically targeted at cracking down on bike thefts.

“Bike registers are already in place in several cities and countries around the world, and they seem to have an important deterrent effect.

“The reality is that cycling is an important mode of transport, and the Minister of Transport needs to be more invested in keeping cyclists safe,’ Deputy Lahart concluded.

When asked about Lahart’s plan for a national bike register by Dublin Gazette, a garda spokes-

3,929 bicycles were reported stolen in Dublin in 2018

person said An Garda Siochana’s 2018 ‘Lock it or Lose It’ campaign recommends how cyclists can keep their bicycles safe.

“We are appealing to everyone from the pros to

the Sunday cyclist to lock their bikes as securely as possible,” the gardai advise.

“There has been an increase in the number of people cycling over recent years, but unfortunately there is poor awareness of bike security.

“Nowadays with the cycle to work scheme, people are investing in more expensive bikes so it makes sense to invest in quality locks to prevent bike theft.

“A few simple tips such as; spending 10% to 20% of the value of the bike on two locks, locking your bike tightly to an immovable object and keep the

lock off the ground, will make life difficult for the thief.

“Take a photo of your bike, note the serial number and email it back to yourself so you have a record of it.

“There is a trend of not reporting theft of bikes to Gardaí which makes it difficult for us to reunite any recovered bikes with their owners.

“If your bike is stolen, report the theft to gardai as soon as you can.

“If you have had your bicycle stolen, you can go onto the Garda website to view bicycles and all other property that is currently in our property stores.”

FASTNews Dublin Bus NTA deal

DUBLIN Bus has signed a new five-year direct award contract with the National Transport Authority (NTA) to provide Public Service Obligation bus routes for five years.

This contract took effect from December 1, and runs until November 30, 2024, allowing Dublin Bus to operate all of the current services they operate at present, subject to meeting quality performance standards.

Dublin Bus’s chief executive, Ray Coyne, said: “All aspects of this contract are quite rightly focused on meeting our customers’ needs.

Over the next five years, public transport in Dublin is going to be transformed.

“We in Dublin Bus are being trusted to lead this transformation. The demand for high-quality, sustainable and accessible public transport is increasing.

“Contract 2019-2024 sets out a clear roadmap towards the continued growth of Dublin Bus and we look forward to working in partnership with the NTA to continue the success of public transport and the city as a whole.”

Dinner for the homeless

THIS Christmas Day Kids Zone (formerly Tallaght Adventure World) will host their 6th annual dinner for the homeless in Tallaght.

Since the first one in 2014, numbers attending on Christmas Day for dinner have grown significantly from 140 to 315 last year.

Sinn Fein Cllr Dermot Richardson, one of the founders of the event, said: “We would like to extend this invitation to anyone who may be alone, isolated or living in a hostel or hotel over Christmas. Please join us on Christmas Day so you can enjoy a 3-course meal with lots of games, music and special gifts.”

Buses will be available on the day to bring people to and from the event in Kids Zone, Whitestown Industrial Estate, Tallaght, from 1pm to 4.30pm on December 25.

Anybody who would like to attend the Christmas Day dinner, volunteer or donate can call Cllr Richardson on 087 2036468.

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NEW ROLE: ‘SHE BRINGS A SUPREME KNOWLEDGE OF THE ORGANISATION’

Lucan’s Amanda becomes chief of the Girl Guides PADRAIG CONLON

A LUCAN Girl Guide Leader has been appointed Chief Commissioner of Irish Girl Guides (IGG).

Amanda O’Sullivan, who has been an IGG Leader in Lucan since 1994, has already held several highprofile posts in the organisation.

These have included Eastern Region Commissioner, Chair of Brownie Branch, Chair of the IT Strategy Team and two terms as Assistant Chief Commissioner.

Amanda, who became a Girl Guide at the age of 11 while living with her

family in Ashbourne, has been a Leader with three IGG branches – Ladybirds (5-7 year olds), Brownies (7-10 year olds) and Guides (10-14 year olds). The only branch she hasn’t been a Leader with is Senior Branch, which caters for 14-30 year old girls and young women.

IGG has around 11,000 members throughout the Republic of Ireland, including approximately 1,600 volunteer Leaders.

Amanda took up her new role on December 7 at a meeting of IGG’s executive committee in the IGG National Office in Donnybrook. A spe-

cially crafted golden Trefoil badge was passed onto her from the outgoing Chief Commissioner Helen Concannon.

“The Trefoil symbolises the history of the organisation and the important role the Chief Commissioner plays,” explained Helen.

“She is the Chair of the

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board and the lead volunteer. The Trefoil was introduced in 1957 by the then Chief Commissioner Eileen Beatty.

“Prior to that, the only Chiefs of this long-running organisation had been the Viscountess Powerscourts.”

Helen is confident

I am looking forward to sharing this leadership journey with a fantastic team of volunteers and supported by the staff in the organisation

Amanda will make an excellent Chief Commissioner.

“She brings a supreme knowledge of the organisation from grassroots to board table with her,” she said.

“Having worked with Amanda in her role of Assistant Chief Commissioner, I have closely seen her dedication to the Girl Guides and, together with the board, she will lead the movement through the next three years with aplomb.”

Amanda is looking forward to the challenges and opportunities afforded by the new role.

Amanda O’Sullivan

“Irish Girl Guides is a volunteer-led youth organisation and the role of the Chief Commissioner is a volunteer role,” she said.

“I am looking forward to sharing this leadership journey with a fantastic team of volunteers and supported by the staff in

the organisation.

“Over the next triennium, there are a number of challenges facing us.

“We must support our Leaders as we embed the changes that charity regulation and good governance rules and regulations have brought.”

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SOUTH DUBLIN: COMMUNITY ENDEAVOUR AWARDS AT THE RED COW MORAN’S HOTEL

Recognising community organisations PADRIAG CONLON

THE Community Endeavo u r Aw a r d s w h i c h acknowledge, promote and recognise the work of community and voluntary organisations within the administrative area of South Dublin County Council were held recently.

Mayor Cllr Vicki Casserly was on hand to present the awards to the winning groups in the Red Cow Moran’s Hotel on Friday,

December 6.

There is an immense richness and variety of voluntary organisations working in South Dublin and this initiative aims to recognise the efforts of those who carry out this valuable work.

All community organisations, whose activities have made a difference in their community and had a beneficial effect on residents were eligible to enter.

A total of 126 entries

were received from a wide variety of groups operating in South Dublin County and these were then assessed by an independent judging panel.

Speaking at the event, Mayor Cllr Vicki Casserly said: “There is an immense richness and variety of voluntary organisations working in South Dublin and it is important that we celebrate them and the difference they make to the lives of the people of this County.

Social Inclusion Award - Brookfield Fettercairn Mens Shed

Andrea Fox Volunteer of the Year

“Their dedication is invaluable to this County and everyone who lives, works and passes through here.

“There is a saying that

goes that it is the people that make the place.

“If that is true, then they have made their communities absolutely amazing.”

Palmerstown Meitheal Sustainability Award

AWARDS WERE MADE UNDER THE FOLLOWING HEADINGS

Clondalkin Mens Shed Overall Community Endeavour Award winners

Category A - Civic Pride and Community Endeavour: The Friends of St Cuthbert’s Category B - Community Facility of the Year: The Park Community Centre Category C - Sport and Recreation Award: Templeogue United Football Club Category D - Social Inclusion Award: Brookfield Fettercairn Men’s Shed Category E - Active Age Award: Clondalkin Men’s Shed Category F - Gradam Chultúr agus Oidhreacht na hÉireann: Glenasmole Ceili Committee Category G - Community/School Garden or Allotment: St Lorcan’s Boys National School, Gardening Club Category H - Community Sustainability Initiative: Palmerstown Meitheal Tidy Towns

Category I - Community Health & Wellbeing Award: NINA for Life Category J - Corporate Endeavour Award: SPAR Dutch Village Category K - Volunteer of the Year: Andrea Fox Special Community Recognition Award: 180th Lucan South Scouts Group Special Community Recognition Award: MacUilliam Soulswork Choir Mayor’s Special Honorary Award: Rhasidat Adeleke, European Youth Olympic Champion Mayor’s Special Honorary Award: Dublin Ladies Senior Gaelic Football Team Overall Community Endeavour Award 2019: Clondalkin Men’s Shed

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Their dedication is invaluable to this County and everyone who lives, works and passes through here

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GALLERIES OF THE WEEK

SANTA COMES TO VISIT LUCAN

S

ANTA Claus paid a visit to Lucan recently to say hello to all the local children ahead of the big night on Christmas Eve. He arrived at the Spa Hotel in the afternoon and left his sleigh and reindeer parked in St Catherine’s Park.

The Honda Goldwing Club of Ireland with a Garda escort drove Santa to the village.

He was delighted to see Mrs Claus entertaining the children and to hear the Lucan Gospel Choir singing “Santa Claus is coming to town” as he did a walkabout at the village green.

Aedan O’Duil, Chloe Casly, Caroline Brady, Mary Meehan, Barbara Cummins. Backrow: Mrs Claus (Ian McClean), Santa Claus and Sam Cummins Casly

Caroline Brady, Mrs Claus and Peter Brady

Denise Brady, Joe Brady and Barbara Cummins

Chloe Casley and Sam Cummins Casley

Garda Ann Marie Gabbett, Santa and Garda Noreen Aarrett

19 December 2019 WEST  DUBLIN GAZETTE 7

COMPETITION: ARTWORK TO APPEAR IN A NEW TEXACO CALENDAR

Locals take pride of place on Texaco calendar PADRAIG CONLON

ARTWORK by two award-winning young local artists is set to appear in a new calendar.

Art created by 8-year-old student Marianne Barrett, from Scoil Mhuire Girls’ National School, Lucan, has been chosen to illustrate the 2020 Texaco Children’s Art Competition Calendar.

One of 13 chosen to illustrate the publication, Marianne’s piece, entitled ‘Daisy’, will appear during the month of March and will be seen in thousands of homes throughout Ireland in 2020.

Winning a Special Merit Award in the 7-8 years age category of the 2019 competition, it was one of a number said by a competition adjudicator to perfectly reflect the sheer talent and skill that many young people in Ireland possess and the essential role played by schools who encourage and inspire their students through art education.

Fifteen-year old student Emma Hinde from St Columba’s College, Whitechurch, has also had her artwork chosen to illustrate the Calendar.

Emma’s piece, entitled ‘Summer Holidays’,

will appear during the month of July, having won her a Special Merit Award in the 14-15 years age category of this year’s competition.

Calendars are currently available through a select number of Texaco service stations and Texaco branded distributors countrywide and through Texoil, Valero’s own home-heating oil division.

The Texaco Children’s Art Competition is an Irish institution since first being launched all the way back in 1955.

Down the years it’s had some very distinguished past winners whose early interest in art and the arts may well have been encouraged by their participation in the Competition.

These include artists Dorothy Cross, Graham Knuttel and Robert Ballagh, fashion designer Paul Costello, broadcasters Thelma Mansfield and Terry Prone, ICTU General Secretary David Begg, novelist Clare Boylan, actress Jean Anne Crowley and musician Ethna Tinney.

In addition, one can only imagine the countless other winners whose early love of art was fostered by this Competition and who still reflect this warmth in their daily lives as adults, Top: Emma Hinde’s Summer Holidays. Above: Marianne Barrett’s Daisy. parents and teachers.

INITIATIVE

Funding boost for 5 projects FIVE community-led projects have been selected by the public to be funded in the Firhouse – Bohernabreean Electoral Area through the council’s landmark €300k Have Your Say participatory budgeting initiative.

A results night was held in Firhouse Community Centre on Wednesday, December 11 and the projects will be worked on by the council during 2020.

The five projects selected for funding are: • A Health and Wellbeing Garden in Firhouse Community Centre • An Intergenerational Outdoor Activity Space in Glenasmole • A Nature Trail along the River Dodder • Upgraded playground facilities in Ballycragh Park • A Native Tree Trail in Woodlawn Park

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SHOP LOCAL: THE G AZETTE FOCUSES ON INDEPENDENT AND FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESSES

It’s business as usual in Clondalkin Village WITH CHRISTMAS almost upon us, it’s important to remember that you don’t need to travel long distances to get what you need – unless of course it’s a holiday you’re after!

Simply put, shopping locally benefits the local area – and sure when the weather is behaving itself, why spends hours in traffic or in a stuffy bus when you can stay in sunny Clondalkin and stroll around the village at your leisure?

By shopping locally, without any of the difficulties involved in travelling across the city, we can support local business, enterprise and industry, all of which play a far greater role in our lives than one might imagine.

One local business that has also survived the testament of time is Becker Tansey & Co Solicitors, which has been providing legal services in Clondalkin for more than 30 years. Mill Cabs, based in the Mill Shopping Centre, has been in operation for over 30 years and continues to serve the people of Clondalkin on a daily basis without any stop for rest.

Broe Auctioneers, a family-run business based in the heart of Clondalkin village, has been running for over 40 years. Founded in 1975, they

are a long-established professional auctioneering company and pride themselves on experience, professionalism, work commitment and an excellent local knowledge of the property market.

Cash In Rags, based at Watery Lane, are now going into their sixth year in business. Donna, who runs the company, says that there are a lot of people these days interested in recycling their old clothes with them. She added: “People like the idea of clearing out their house of old clothes and bringing it in to us in exchange for money.”

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GALLERIES OF THE WEEK

Jamie with John Jones

Jamie with Alva Doheny and Jonathan Geoff. Pictures: EMILY GALLAGHER

Jamie Heaslip with Patricia Fitzpatrick

Jamie with Karen Bryce

Star launches memoir

Jamie with Cian and Karl Furlong

D

UBRAY Books in Liffey Valley welcomed Ireland legend Jamie Heaslip to sign copies of his memoir, All In, last week. In a frank and stirring account of his years on rugby’s front line, Heaslip recalls the events, wisdom

and personalities that helped craft his winning mindset and vault Ireland to the summit of world rugby. An inspiring personal memoir and insider account of Ireland’s transformation from amateur backwater to professional powerhouse.

19 December 2019 WEST  DUBLIN GAZETTE 13

GALLERIES OF THE WEEK

Ed O’Malley, Jim Gavin, John O’Malley Snr, John O’Malley Jnr and John O’Malley. Pictures: Simon Peare

Tommy Keogh and Jim Gavin

Jim with Yasmin and Jude Gavin

Jim with John, Daniel, Lamog, Eala, Eabha and Sadbh

Club honours legend R

OUNDTOWER GAA Club Clondalkin honoured GAA legend Jim Gavin at their clubhouse recently.

Club members were invited to attend the very special occasion with the Club Member who has guided the Dublin Footballers to a unique five All Ireland Football Final wins in a row. Prior to visiting the club, Jim officially opened the club’s new High Performance Centre at a short ceremony at Monastery Road.

Brian Gavin and Pat Murphy

Jim Gavin with Gavin, Cillian and Oisin Doyle

14 DUBLIN GAZETTE 19 December 2019

DUBLIN GAZETTE EXCLUSIVE EXPOSE ON VULTURE FUNDS: PART 7 OF 7

Your New Year’s Resolution News for county You might win the right to stay in your home, they registrars do not have all the cards

Part 3 of 3 such articles drafted for us by a panel of legal and debt advocacy experts

THE unhappy news for County Registrars is that, even if it’s only an Application to Renew (after a year) an Exemption Order made under the old Law, the new Act will have to be considered (and it will have to be on notice to the Defendant).

The happy news for the County

Registrar is that he/she cannot make the decision under the new Act (including a decision to Renew): he/she must place the matter on the Judge’s List.

Also, the County Registrar can’t just presume the loan contract was fair: after Grant he/she has to read it. And if there’s any query – off to the Judge’s List!

‘Proportionality’ – so what’s new?

THE fact is, most judges a p p l y p ro p o r t i o n a l ity in these cases through Adjournments and Stays.

Is the new Act a new ball game? And if so, how?

Navigating the Act is quite difficult. Expect argument. It speaks of “appropriate” matters to be considered when making “appropriate” Orders.

Not spelt out. Not very clear!

The central theme is the settlement proposal to enable you to remain.

That’s what’s new!

Until now, judges have presumed that repossession is the only proportionate outcome but now they’re on a learning curve: it’s not just proportionality in the area of ECHR, it’s proportionality in the sense of justice, having regard to real interests and conduct of both parties.

We have clear references in the Act to the circumstances of the Borrowers, but the position of the Lenders is not specifically listed.

Interference with the Plaintiff’s Constitutional right to private property will not be disproportionate if it is fully justified for the Common Good.

The private property rights of a secured creditor are already diluted by the Insolvency Legislation,

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and borrowers should aim to offer a settlement proposal which, all in all, is no worse for the creditor than with a court-approved Personal Insolvency Arrangement.

Where the Act refers to “the total amount that remains to be paid,” the court should look for a Present Value of that stream of payments, and the rate of interest used to discount same.

And the court should note that the loan originator has already recovered

the court should examine “in detail” relevant arguments on interference with your Article 8 rights (“of central importance”) and then “provide adequate reasons” (Yordanova v Bulgaria).

Of course, the Fund might try to load the dice by providing a draft Judgement for the judge. Would they dare? What do you think?

Proportionality cuts both ways. It may be that the Fund which is refused an Order for Possession

98% of the nominal value from the ECB, and doesn’t have to pay that back (this was ‘the bailout’). Somebody’s making an unconscionable gain!

So you’ve actually got two sets of Rights: your Rights under Boxer Moran’s Bill, and your Rights under the ECHR (Article 8).

You may not get a reasoned judgement regarding the judge’s “discretion” under Boxer’s Bill, but you are entitled to insist that

will immediately attack the decision as a disproportionate interference with their Rights and assert that it was not necessary to bring about the policy objective set out in the 2009 Act (as amended).

And they could be right (these are uncharted waters): it all depends on the circumstances in the test case(s).

So, please don’t let the side down. Make sure your Affidavit sets out all the circumstances.

Until now, judges have presumed that repossession is the only proportionate outcome but now they’re on a learning curve ... it’s proportionality in the sense of justice, having regard to real interests and conduct of both parties

Even when a Vulture Fund has you in its grasp, there’s still a lot you can do to present your case fairly and honestly, with your rights also of the upmost importance to consider

If it’s not on affidavit: forget it!

BUT please do not include your legal points in the Affidavit or ANYTHING YOU DO NOT UNDERSTAND (‘mumbo jumbo’). “In your own words: do not copy someone else’s.”

Your Affidavit (true facts only) is your answer to the Plaintiff’s case.

All facts which are part of any “matter” which you say should be taken into account should be in the Affidavit(s). Including the “details of any proposal” you make.

Don’t be lazy: work out your own

proposal – the sample proposals set out here are just a few of many. Be creative. You might be surprised at how receptive the judge might be.

You’re helping him/her to decide “proportionality”.

But if you want to cross-examine the other sides’ witnesses (or they want to cross-examine you) in the witness box, the judge can (probably, in due process terms must), set the case down for a full hearing (not just Affidavits).

19 December 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 15

for 2020 should be ‘Engage’ PTD – The Portable Your ‘Circumstances’ Trade Down YOU can afford to pay the mortgage now, but not the arrears?

Carry the loan (and a mortgage to secure it) to a trade-down home.

Happy days: you do not need to fit in with Central Bank guidelines because the Vulture Fund is not a bank!

Go to over 100% LTV if necessary. Build in an equity

release to cover other creditors (if any). A fresh start!

Bring into court the exact plan: “This is the house we could move to, and we can do this if the court agrees.”

Your winning argument should be: This gets the Vulture Fund a better

deal than in an Insolvency Arrangement.

Difficult to prove, but also difficult to disprove.

If the Vulture Fund tries, argue back: the current arrears will be paid, and the mortgage payments will resume.

The ‘MTR’ Put Option BET you didn’t know that you’re a ‘receivable’! Every (net) cent the Vulture Fund hopes to generate from your situation is, for them, a ‘receivable’.

The issue for the court is that in order to assess ‘proportionality’, it needs to know what figure the Vulture Fund has pencilled in.

If they expect say, 100, from the sale, with the then unsecured deficit written off, (and can prove it), then you may be able to meet that by offering to pay a rent which, as a stream of future payments discounted to its Present Value

(PV), at a specified and reasonable rate of interest, is equivalent to 100.

You can do this by offering to pay annual rent to the Vulture Fund as your landlord, and you get to remain in your home as a long-term tenant.

That Landlord/Tenant deal has a capital value of 100, which the Vulture Fund can sell on.

And the put option? Pay a little extra to buy the right to buy your home back, whenever (within 21 years).

Rent unpaid? Lose the house, lose the option.

BCF – The Bailout Carried Forward MOST of us remember the crazy junior bondholder decision (pay them 100%).

It is a fact that your mortgage loan has been securitised, collateralised, sold on, reinsured and assigned by subrogation and so forth, again and again, to the point where its core asset value, resting

finally in some balance sheet, has shrunk to the grade of junk bond.

Discounted many times, losses absorbed and risks priced in, the ultimate owner is the “junior bondholder” of this transaction.

Ask the court to presume (unless it’s proved otherwise) that the beneficial owner is

offshore, not Irish.

Offer a full and final 50% to buy out the nominal debt.

That’s TWICE the asset value in the owner’s balance sheet, and HALF what you owe.

That’s proportionality.(And an offshore owner doesn’t have Constitutional rights here.)

CMR – The Court Managed Receivership NOMINATE a trusted but independent third party to be a Court Supervised Receiver of the home, pending further Order.

To conduct a sale by public auction (“with vacant possession” but with the option of renting to you), and in the meantime (until completion) to allow your continued occupation as a licensee.(Pay a market rent to the Receiver).

Court directions to place a reserve on it, namely the sum which you, or your VBF or PRF, are able to raise to

buy it.

Do not attempt to rig the auction: stay well away (this isn’t John B Keane’s The Field).

If you don’t get to buy, offer the new owner to rent the place from him even if only on a temporary convenience basis.

Knowing how keen you are to stay, he may realise you’ll be a long-term and paying tenant, with or without HAP. Just the sort of tenant an investor will appreciate.

‘YOUR circumstances’ are not just the history, not just where you’re at now, but ALSO, what the future holds.

What’s your plan for after retirement if you can’t pay off a “warehoused” lump sum then?

And your dependants after you die?

Will you be able to afford a nursing home “fair deal”?

Or will you transfer the house to one of the children, and stay there with a right of residence?

16 DUBLIN GAZETTE 19 December 2019

DUBLIN

TRAVEL P21

MAGAZINE AUDI’S NEW A4 OFFERS A GREAT MIX OF CLASS, COMFORT AND FEATURES P21

SENIORS P22

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

Run, two. three, Go! A RECORD number of Dubliners are expected to take part in one of Ireland’s favourite festive fundraisers, the GOAL Mile, over the Christmas period.

Three Irish stars and GOAL ambassadors, Rugby international, Jenny Murphy; middle distance running champion, Ciara Mageean; and writer, and Ross O’Carroll Kelly creator, Paul Howard, began their warm GOAL Mile warm-ups as they launched this year’s event in the iconic Irishtown Stadium in Dublin, with help from siblings Saoirse and Rossa Moore.

Now in its 38th year, the GOAL Mile is one of Ireland’s largest and longestrunning annual fundraising events and people can choose to walk, run or jog the mile.

Last year, GOAL reached more than 5.5 million people in need, helped by the €250,000 raised from the 2018 GOAL Mile. All GOAL Miles are listed over at goalmile.org with dates and times.

Picture: Leon Farrell/Photocall Ireland

19 December 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17

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ONE UNIVERSAL tradition over the Christmas season is the annual television binge.

There’s nothing like sitting down in front of the television on a particularly cold December evening, with a mince pie and a mulled wine in tow, or even sitting down after a hefty Christmas

dinner to decompress while watching one of the dozens of films on offer.

With so much choice, it can be difficult to narrow it don’t - but fear not, we’ve got you covered.

We’ve picked our favourite shows on offer across the big six channels - RTE, Virgin Media, TG4, Channel 4 / E4, ITV and BBC - over Christmas week, and up to New Years Eve.

mas Letter, starring a host of Irish actors and narrated by Kate Winslet.

The Irish 3D animation tells the story of eightyear-old Henry’s attempt to bring Christm a s

cheer to a lonely old lady, Mrs Broom. It premieres at 6:30pm on December 23.

RTE’s Christmas Day film highlight is the live action remake of the Disney classic, Beauty and the Beast, starring Emma Watson.

The movie will premiere at 4:45pm on Christmas Day on RTE One – just in time for a

THIS year, Virgin Media TV has a host of to p e n te rtainment on the way, from movies to quizzes and festive

specials too.

Movies on offer this year include a Christmas Day showing of the iconic Wizard of Oz, as well as a traditional viewing of The Snapper on Stephen’s Day. Die Hard 4 and the Pursuit of Happiness will both show on Christmas Eve, with Furious 7 and John Wick both set

to be screened on Virgin Media TV over Christmas week.

There’s a whopping 19 movies set to be showcased on Virgin Media across the festive season, ensuring that there will truly be something for everyone and every taste, but if that’s not enough, be sure to take a look at Virgin Media’s On Demand service.

ITV has a stocking full of Christmas and New Year treats for viewers this year, including more drama on the Cobbles, gossip from the Woolpack, entertainment shows, returning Dramas, Christmas specials of viewer favourites and some fantastic films for all the family.

In the run up to Christmas Gordon Ramsay, Gino

D’Acampo and Fred Sirieix head to Morocco in Gordon, Gino and Fred: A Christmas Roadtrip as they take on more food challenges on this new road trip.

There will be festive specials of Celebrity Catchphrase, The Sara Cox Show at Christmas, James Martin’s Saturday Morning at Christmas, John & Lisa’s Weekend Kitchen, Tenable All

Stars Christmas Special, Who Wants to Be A Millionaire?

Celebrity Special, Jonathan Ross, In For A Christmas Penny and Tipping Point: Lucky Stars Christmas Special.

It will be an eventful Christmas in ITV’s soaps this year, for Coronation Street and Emmerdale. Christmas is all about family and in Emmerdale it’s no difONCE again, the BBC brings a bumper box of yuletide treats featuring a whole host of much-loved performers and presenters which will delight and enchant audiences this Christmas.

Making a welcome return to BBC One on Christmas Day is Gavin & Stacey, showcasing what’s been going on in the

epic Scorcse movie The Irishman, the brand new Ryan Reynolds flick 6 Underground, fantasyfilm The Witche r, r o m a n tic drama and award nomined Marriage Story and much, much more.

For those looking for a view into the modern world, there’s also new documentary series Broken, looking at everything from counterfeit cosmetics, to what’s in vaping products.

Ch 4/E4

snow and all things Christmassy. There’s the

THIS year on Channel 4 there’s something for everyone – whether you’re partial to Kirstie being Crafty, Jamie revealing his go-to Christmas tips, a double portion of festive themed Great British Bake Off, or some heart-warming romance courtesy of The Undateables, they have Christmas wrapped up.

Some famous faces make

TG4

THERE IS more choice than ever over the festive period, thanks to streaming services like Netflix.

An abundance of TV shows and films are on offer on the streaming giant this Christmas, including several new additions and special Christmas content, too.

Highlights to get us in the festive spirit this year include Jack Whitehall: Christmas With My Father, Merry Happy Whatever, Klaus, Let It Snow, the Christmas Prince Tr i l o g y , The Knight B e f o r e Christmas and much more.

If you’ve had too much Christmas contet for one festive season - fear not. Netflix has a host of new films on offer that stray far away from

THERE are several movie premiere highlights on RTE this Christmas, alongside a host of special shows looking back on 2019, and those Irish legends we have lost this year in special productions for the national broadcaster.

One of the main highlights of the Christmas season this year is the animated tale The Christ-

BBC

Other streaming services have started to bite, but for most of us, Netflix is still king – for now – of streaming content.

Here are some highlights to enjoy...

VIRGIN

RACHEL D’ARCY

ITV

What’s on the TV this Christmas?

RTE

HO-HO-HERE’S YOUR GUIDE TO THE BEST OF WHAT TO

Fear Darb Ainm Harris

a reappearance on Channel 4 this year, between Jamie Oliver’s Easy Christmas Countdown and Kirstie’s Handmade Christmas, there’s something for those that like to get to work with their hands over the holiday season.

There will be special editions of some of E4 and Channel 4’s best loved programmes this

Christmas, including a Child Genius vs Celebrities Christmas Special starring Jo Brand and Richard Bacon, as well as Made In Chelsea: Buenos Aires, with the north London gang jetting off to Argentina for a festive fling.

Channel 4 will also deliver one of their signature documentaries this Christmas, tak-

IF you’re a documentary buff or a movie fanatic, TG4 is the place for you this Christmas.

The Irish language station will be debuting three fantastic new documentaries on Christmas week – Phil Coulter – Mo Shaol, Ar Thoir na Crown Jewels and Fear Darb Ainm Harris.

Premiering at 9:30pm on Christmas Day, Phil Coulter –

Mo Shaol will take a look at the life of the prolific songwriter/ producer at 9:30pm.

On December 28, Ar Thoir na Crown Jewels will take a look at one of the greatest unsolved mysteries in Irish history – Mary O’Farrell discovering the theft of the Irish Crown Jewels in Dublin Castle in 1907.

New Year’s Day sees the

19 December 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 19

O WATCH, WHETHER ON YOUR TV OR STREAMING post-dinner relaxation session.

Also,on Christmas Day is the delightful Paddington 2, which showcases Paddington happily settled with the Brown Family and searching for the perfect present for his beloved Aunt Lucy’s 100th birthday. Paddington 2 will premiere at 7pm on Christmas Day. They have the likes of Frozen and Love Actually ready to watch at any time to get you in the festive spirit, and to keep you entertained over the Christmas season.

There’s also old episodes of Love Island, if you’re in the mood for a re-watch of the antics in the villa, or Living

lives of the Shipmans and the Wests in the last ten years.

The nuns of Nonnatus House return for a Call the Midwife Christmas Special as well, while the residents of Albert Square have to cope with secrets and lies in what promises to be an explosive festive episode of EastEnders.

Doctor Who will also return

Children and adults alike are catered to on St Stephen’s Day when it comes to movies.

Storks will premiere at 2:10pm on December 26, while Bridget Jones’s Baby has its Irish television debut at 9pm on the same night.

Apart from films, RTE also has a host of great television content on the way this Christ-

The Big Soap Quiz of 2019

some of Ireland’s best loved musical artists, including Mary Black, Colm Willkinson, Sonny Knowles, Elvis Costello and more.

There will also be a more poignant show on offer this festive season from RTE, as they show Brendan Grace: Thanks for the Memories concert, in remembrance of the man who brought

so much love and joy to the nation.

The Big Christmas Rewind will also premiere on Christmas Eve, with Irish celebrities and their real-life or TV families sitting down together to rewind through a nostalgic, heartwarming and hilarious mix of the best of Irish Christmas telly from years gone by.

Pat Shortt, Music from D’Telly

With Lucy as well if that’s more up your alley.

Entertainment is also on the cards in abundance this festive season, with the Jonathan Ross Christmas Special on Christmas Eve expected to be a highlight. Graham Norton will also host a New Year’s Eve special on Virgin Media One

this year.

Quizzes are also on the table – the Big Soap Quiz of 2019 will take a look back at the year that was, whilst the Celebrity Chase Christmas Day Special is sure to provide some great post-Turkey-andham entertainment for the whole family.

Lest not forget the major soaps shown on Virgin Media either, who’ll also have bumper packed Christmas specials on offer. Coronation Street and Emmerdale will both suffer major blows in their respective villages, which always proves to be explosive watching on Christmas Day.

senting a one-off special, Pride of Britain: Celebrating 20 Years, this Christmas, reliving many of her favourite memories spanning over the last 20 years.

Paul O’Grady is back with the heart-warming Paul O’Grady: For The Love of Dogs at Christmas. Paul once again brings his unique blend of heartfelt warmth and humour to the

waifs and strays of Battersea as he tries to give the dogs the best Christmas present possible, a new home.

Dancing on Ice fans are in for a treat with Dancing on Ice at Christmas where all the celebrity and professional skaters for the 2020 series will be seen on the ice for the first time.

ferent this Yuletide as The Tates gather to carve the turkey at Home Farm, there is pandemonium when Gra-

ham walks in and delivers a devastating revelation, shattering relationships.

In Coronation Street the residents are dreaming of a White Christmas, but dreams can all too easily turn to nightmares, and this will be one festive season they will never forget.

ITV will also take a look back at some of Corrie’s nostalgic

festive moments in Coronation Street at Christmas.

Alan Carr is hosting a games night that will see six celebrities take seats on his sofas for a show that looks back at the good, the cringe and the unbelievable events of the year in Alan Carr’s Celebrity Re-Play 2019.

Carol Vorderman will be pre-

for it’s 12th season this Christmas period.

Mary Berry caters for a very special party for charity volunteers in A Berry Royal Christmas, and following another glittering series, the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special returns for an all-star episode with six of the most-loved Strictly stars.

On BBC Two, there’ll be an in-depth look at Hugh Grant’s career in new documentary ‘Hugh Grant: A Life On Screen’.

A Merry Tudor Christmas With Lucy Worsley will take a look back at how Christmas was celebrated during the reign of Henry VIII whilst Frankie Boyle will reflect on 2019 in Frankie Boyle’s New World Order.

One of the nation’s favourite children’s books, Paddington, is to be the subject of a special heart-warming programme on BBC Two. A Bear Called Paddington & A Man Called Michael will take a look at how author Michael Bond created an international phenomenon with a little bear from Peru.

ing a look Inside the Toy Factory in an hour-long look inside different toy factories around the world.

Fresh from her legendary slot at Glastonbury this Summer, Kylie Minogue will host Kylie’s Secret night, allowing her fans to see her like never before on Channel 4.

A real Christmas treat this

year will be hand-drawn animated special, The Tiger Who Came to Tea, which celebrated its 50th anniversary last year, debuting on Christmas Eve. Based on the best-selling book, the Channel 4 version will also be replayed on Christmas Day. This year, there will also be The Great Festive Bake Off

comedy As Good As It Gets.

Angels & Demons gets a showing on TG4, as well as Catch-22, Apollo 13 and the crime drama Fargo on December 28.

There’s plenty for the whole family on the station as well this Christmas, including the Irish language version of cult classic Shrek on Christmas

day, and the Irish version of Happy Feet Two, which sees penguins Mumble and Gloria return to our screens with a son of their own.

For those not as fluent in our native tongue, they will also be showing Dr Seuss’ The Lorax on Christmas Eve, starring Zac Efron, Danny DeVito and singer Taylor Swift.

The Great Festive Bake Off with the Derry Girls cast

debut of Fear Darb Ainm Harris, celebrating the colourful life of Richard Harris, one of the last great hellraisers of Hollywood.

Showing at 9:30pm, the movie features exclusive interviews with Clint Eastwood, Daniel Radcliffe, Ridley Scott, Jim Sheridan and Stephen Rea. For those looking for something a little different, TG4 are

mas. Finglas is turned into a festive wonderland as Mrs Brown’s world is turned upside down by the arrival of an angel in the first of two festive specials from the ‘queen of Dublin Town’.

Pat Shortt will also have an in-depth look at Music from D’Telly this Christmas, featuring festive favourites and rarely seen performances from

showing older films such as Around the World in 90 Days, Into The West, Rear Window and Flight of the Doves – something a little different from the other more festive offerings on other channels.

Other movies on TG4 this Christmas include the original A Star Is Born starring Janey Gaynor, as well as the 1997

CHRISTMAS TV

Call the Midwife Christmas Special

sees Noel, Sandi, Prue and Paul welcoming brand-new bakers to the festive tent for the first time, in the form of the Derry Girls star cast.

Competing for the coveted Star Baker title are SaoirseMonica Jackson (Erin), Nicola Coughlan (Clare), Jamie-Lee O’Donnell (Michelle), Dylan Llewellyn (James, the Wee

Flight of the Doves

English Fella) and Siobhan McSweeney (St Michael).

To celebrate the dawn of another year, Jimmy Carr returns with the Big Fat Quiz of the Year. Putting a panel of celebrity teams to test as he presents his fiendishly difficult quiz. He’ll also host the Big Fat Quiz of the Decade, to round off the 2010s.

20 DUBLIN GAZETTE 19 December 2019

DUBLIN GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS I N F O R M AT I O N

COOL AND QUIRKY THINGS

BITS & BOBS

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

PICTURED at the launch of the safefood Christmas campaign are Chef, JP McMahon alongside Matei Balasca and Grace Dalton. New research from safefood reveals that one quarter of us are cooking Christmas dinner for the first time this year and 22% are nervous about the task ahead. The food safety campaign aims to prove that cooking Christmas dinner can be child’s play with the help of safefood.eu, which is a helpful source of practical tips and advice, as well as recipe inspiration for the all-important Christmas leftovers. Picture: Julien Behal Photography

C O N TA C T S Managing Director: Michael McGovern mmcgovern@dublingazette.com Commercial Director: Liz Ferris lferris@dublingazette.com Group Editor: Patrick Finnegan pfinnegan@dublingazette.com Deputy Group Editor & Travel Editor: Shane Dillon sdillon@dublingazette.com Sports Editor: Stephen Findlater sfindlater@dublingazette.com Production Editor: Jessica Maile jmaile@dublingazette.com Picture Editor: Alison O’Hanlon picturedesk@dublingazette.com Online & Style Editor: Rachel D’Arcy rdarcy@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 City Gazette, Fingal Gazette, South Gazette and West Gazette. The placing of an order or contract will be deemed an acceptance of these conditions.

Unpeeling Art Basel ART Basel took place last weekend, with one artwork catching slightly more attention than the others - a banana duct taped to a wall.

The banana, slightly past the ripe stage, was stuck to a wall with duct tape at the annual exhibition in Miami Beach by artist Maurizio Cattelan.

The ‘artwork’ sold to an art collector for $120,000, in news that peaked the world’s interest.

However, just a day later, a random man - who was later revealed to be a performance artist took the banana off the wall and ate it, rendering the art virtually non-existent.

Then, on Sunday, a passer-by entered the gallery, and spotted a man scrawling a controversial message on the wall that previously held the banana, forcing organisers to cover the wall with white cardboard.

Sacha Medici spotted a man live streaming himself writing the phrase ‘Epstein didn’t kill himself’ in red lipstick on the now infamous wall of the gallery.

The message was in reference to the death of former financier Jeffrey Epstein, who is reported to have died by suicide in his jail cell earlier this year.

Raccoon drinks too much wine

Pigeons in tiny cowboy hats are a mystery

THE rodeo must have rolled into Las Vegas last week, as dozens of pigeons were spotted wearing tiny red cowboy hats.

Locals noticed the birds with the tiny hats, posting videos and images to social media. However, nobody is sure who is giving the pigeons these hats, or how they’re managing to get the tiny cowboy hats to stay on the birds’ ever bobbing heads.

A pigeon advocacy group in Las Vegas, Lofty Hopes, have raised concerns about the tiny hats and how they managed to find themselves on the pigeons’ heads.

There is still no word on who is making the hats, or putting them on the pigeons’ heads.

A RACCOON in Germany got a little too into the festive spirit recently, after sipping too much mulled wine from abandoned glasses around a Christmas Market.

The raccoon eventually passed out in the middle of the market, after staggering through groups of people for a short period beforehand. He is believed to have toyed with a woman’s shoes and taken a rest on the steps of a nearby building.

A police spokesperson from the city of Erfurt, in central Gemany, said that the raccoon was ‘obviously intoxicated’, but that no breathalyzer tests were carried out on the animal.

Sadly, although German media initially reported that the raccoon had been taken to a nearby animal shelter, it was revealed that the animal was handed over to a local hunter, who sadly shot the raccoon.

DOG OF THE WEEK DUBLIN Gazette Newspapers has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for lost and abandoned dogs.

This week’s dog of the week is Biddy, a beautiful seven-year-old female Alaskan Malamute who loves to say ‘Hi’ to everyone she meets, but can be a little unsure about being handled by new people. Once she decides she likes you, she will approach and seek rubs and affection on her own terms.

Biddy is looking for an adult family who will allow her time to settle in.

She will need someone who is always home, at least for the first while.

As she settles into her new home,

time spent alone can be built up gradually. Biddy can be quite vocal when meeting dogs on walks, but she just wants to play. She could share a home with a dog of similar size.

If you have room in your heart and home for Biddy 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.)

biddy

19 December 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 21

latitude&longitude

TAKE A BREAK, AT HOME OR AWAY

TRAVEL

Catch the Winter Sun

SHANE DILLON Reykjavik, Blue Lagoon and the Northern Lights

A 2020 holiday in Iceland could be one of the coolest destinations you’ll ever see FOR those looking for an unforgettable trip once the New Year is well under way, Travel Department are offering the trip of a lifetime to the land of fire and ice – Iceland.

The March 2020, fully-guided holiday will bring you to a wide range of the famously rugged, beautiful island, where you’ll discover firsthand its unique character and natural wonders.

With its ‘Land of Fire and Ice’ moniker, there aren’t many places in the world which have such contrasting dramatic landscapes.

From the Blue Lagoon to spouting geysers, glaciers and fjords, Iceland is an enchanting country just waiting to be explored.

It is one of few places in the world where it is possible to see the amazing Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) rippling in eerily beautiful waves overhead.

On terra firma, the unusual and versatile landscape, with its black volcanic beaches, waterfalls, bird cliffs, volcanoes, glaciers, hot springs and more, will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

On this fully-guided holiday with Travel Department, enjoy a visit to the world famous Blue Lagoon, take a guided tour of Europe’s most northerly capital, Reykjavik; hunt for the incredible Northern Lights, and embark on a full-day tour of the Golden Circle – a route that is home to some of Iceland’s most wonderful natural attractions, including Gullfoss Waterfall.

There will also be a full day of leisure time to further explore this beautiful region or relax at your own pace.

This trip and a half is priced from €929pp for four nights including return flights, transfers, three-star or four-star B&B hotel accommodation, and excursions with expert local guides.

To book, see www.traveldepartment.ie, or call 01 637 1600.

Travel Editor IT’S beginning to look a lot like ... the perfect time to plan a New year break.

As much as we all love you-know-what, the thought of stretching our legs by the pool under some Christmas sun – or at least enjoying a warmer clime – is sure to give would-be holidaymakers a sunny disposition, even as the Winter chill bites.

Holiday experts TUI have rounded up a range of New Year and early 2020 breaks that won’t bust the post-Christmas bank, but which you can surely bank on to be a great holiday in a sunnier, warmer spot.

After all, Irish holidaymakers need no introduction to the likes of old favourites Lanzarote, Gran Canaria (main image) or Tenerife (inset), none of which will be exactly scorching hot in January or February, but all of which can be relied upon to have much better, warmer weather than dear old Dublin.

From Blue Flag beaches for family fun, to busy nightlife options, to strong cultures and friendly locals, these and

similar destinations have it all for anyone looking for a post-Christmas holiday.

Here are just a few of the holiday deals that could give a perfect, wallet-friendly break in the coming months ...

• January 9, Dublin to Gran Canaria, Mirador Maspalomas by Dunas, Maspalomas, three-star, all inclusive, seven nights from €569pps.

• January 17, Dublin to Tenerife, Hotel Catalonia Las Vegas, Puerto de la Cruz, three-star-plus, half board, seven nights from €599pps.

• January 20, Dublin to Lanzarote, Paradise Island, Playa Blanca, three-star-plus, all inclusive, seven nights from €559pps.

• February 7, Dublin to Tenerife, Las Piramides resort, Playa de las Americas, two-star, self catering, seven nights from €529pps.

• February 20, Dublin to Gran Canaria, Monte Feliz, Bahia Feliz, threestar, self catering, seven

nights from €449pps.

• February 24, Dublin to Lanzarote, Cinco Plazas, Puerto del Carmen, three-star-plus, self catering, seven nights from €509pps.

And, if you’re thinking of a mid-term family (2+1) break, why not plump for February 13, Dublin to Gran Canaria, Castillo de Sol, Puerto Rico, threestar, self-catering, seven

nights from €1,329pps.

All holidays are subject to change and availability.

For further information on these and other offers, see www.tuiholidays.ie, or call 1850 45 35 45.

22 DUBLIN GAZETTE 19 December 2019

ENTERTAINMENT

WELL WORTH A LISTEN AND A LOOK

Moncrieff: The Alt-Pop star on the rise London-Irish experiences have helped the Waterford native really find his voice

THERE were plenty of barriers to Moncrieff pursuing a life in his colourful, emotive brand of pop music, from social pressures at school to a gut feeling that it wouldn’t work as a career at home.

He’s jovial and outgoing, though, and prepared to spill his life into his heartfelt, poetic melodies.

A move to London to commit fully was the kickstart he needed.

“There were no avenues really to pursue modern music, just the choir,” Moncrieff says of his upbringing in a small town outside Waterford.

“The choir was social suicide, really. I did love singing, I probably would have enjoyed it, and the occasional musicals, but growing up I didn’t want to stick out. I was a sportsperson.

“I didn’t start doing things publicly until I was 18, in a band, and played local school shows. It snowballed for me – I became obsessed.

“As soon as I decided I was

 JAMES HENDICOTT

going to make music, I realised that it was what I wanted to do, a dream to chase, and that it could be done. It’s been done before, so why not?”

He continues: “I knew London would make the learning curve steeper.

Difficult, but worthwhile.

“There are a lot of people that succeed in Ireland but never achieve anything in the UK. “Sometimes, the quality in Ireland isn’t in the spotlight elsewhere, and there is so much quality.

“I knew I’d learn a lot more and get a lot further outside of my comfort zone in London.”

Since arriving across the water, Moncrieff’s Irish success has seen a massive uptick, with his show at The Soundhouse selling out extremely quickly, and his forthcoming Academy main room date showing his progression.

“

“For the first few months I couldn’t get on at open mic nights over there,” he laughs.

“Later, I figured out when to get on for my time of music, how to get my name down, stuff like that.

“I did so many nights, and I learnt so much. I learnt so quickly, and that’s what London represented to me. It made it much easier to perform live, which is everything to me.

“One thing that’s very important to me is that what I do is genuine. I don’t think it’s possible to do anything else without people seeing through you,” he says of the tracks that appear on his EP, The Early Hearts.

“It’s the story of the early days, of everyone who impacted me as an artist, a collection of personal stories.

“You want to give so m e t h i n g ge nu i n e, something that is real, but you don’t want to dictate to the audience how they should see it.

“Ultimately, the power lies in being able to see yourself in the song, and evoking a feeling the listener has. It sounds a bit airy-fairy, but it is about that connection.

“Some of my songs are very close to the bone. I wrote one of them about trying to get back with my ex, and leaving it way, way too late.

“That song has to come out and tell that story, and I spoke to her about it, and told her I didn’t think she should listen to it. Obviously, she did.

“You never really know what the reaction is going to be, but it was ok.

“I think as long as you go into it with a positive heart, I hope people I sing about can’t be too offended!

“For the average person, it can be about whatever they want it to be about. It’s not really ‘my’ song once it’s done.”

Moncrieff plays the Soundhouse (sold out) on December 19, and The Academy on April 26.

There are a lot of people that succeed in Ireland but never achieve anything in the UK. Sometimes, the quality in Ireland isn’t in the spotlight elsewhere, and there is so much quality.

19 December 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 23

WHAT’S NEW IN THE WORLD OF TRANSPORT

MOTORS

Renault Captur earns max safety The new Audi A4 saloon offers a very attractive mix of comfort and class, with a rich set of features

New Audi A4 delights DECLAN GLYNN

THANKS to a new design language, and an almost completely new body (everything except the bonnet, roof and boot lid), the sporty character of the new Audi A4 saloon comes into play more than ever – it appears dynamic and powerful, while attractive and aesthetic at the same time.

A 2. 0- li tre pe tro lpowered engine (badged TFSI) is available with a power output of 150bhp or190bhp, while the diesel-powered 2.0 TDI engines produce 136bhp, 163bhp or 190bhp.

The latter variant features quattro all-wheel drive, ensuring optimum traction and driving dynamics.

Some of these engine

variants feature a 12-volt mild hybrid system with a belt-starter generator and a Lithium-ion battery.

This technology allows, for example, a shutdown of the engine while driving, which

reduces fuel consumption.

Two ge n e ro u s l yequipped trim levels are available in the new Audi A4 – SE, and S Line, while a 7-speed automatic (S-tronic) is standard across the engine

and model range – with the option of a six-speed manual gearbox reserved exclusively for the 150bhp petrol engine.

Standard SE specification includes items such as front and rear seats in leather, heated front seats, three-zone deluxe automatic climate control, front and rear parking sensors and rear view camera.

Other features include Audi drive select, cruise control with speed limiter, Audi Smartphone Interface, LED interior lighting package, and electric folding exterior mirrors, which are also heated and auto-dimming.

Additionally, S Line specification includes 19” Audi Sport Alloy Wheels, S line front and rear bumpers, headlining

in black cloth, decorative inserts in Matte Brushed Aluminium, black gloss look (area surrounding gear knob), scuff plates with aluminium inserts in front, illuminated, with ‘S’ logo, leather/Alcantara sports seats with ‘S’ embossing, and sports suspension.

The cabin of the new A4 remains simple, intuitive to use and stylish, while the Audi’s numerous aluminium and soft-plastic trims look classy and feel absolutely bulletproof.

No other car this size is quite as well built as the Audi A4, and the car feels like it will last for generations to come.

Pricing for the new Audi A4 starts at €40,520 (ex-delivery), and is available to test-drive and order now.

THE new Renault Captur has been awarded the maximum 5-star Euro NCAP safety test rating.

T h e n ew C a p t u r passed the Euro NCAP safety test with 5 stars with its latest generation, proving its qualities in terms of safety and wide range of driving aids.

The Captur now joins the all-new Clio (also 5 stars) on the list of the safest vehicles, and benefits from an optimised body structure, revised seat structures and seat belt fasteners designed to provide optimal support for all occupants with pyrotechnic pre-tensions and force limiters.

New features on the Captur include the option of a 360° camera and active emergency braking with cyclist and pedestrian detection, which are both firsts in the Renault range.

The highlight is the Highway and Traffic Jam Companion, which

is rare in the small SUV class and provides significantly improved comfort and tranquillity when driving.

This advanced driver assistance system constitutes a first step towards autonomous vehicles.

ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) available on the all-new Captur fall into three categories: Driving, Parking and Safety.

Together, they form t h e Re n a u l t E A SY DRIVE system.

Their settings are easy to adjust from the Renault EASY LINK multimedia system touchscreen.

With its renewed design, improved technology features and all its innovations, the new Renault Captur opens a new era in Groupe Renault’s product strategy and offers the best in safety for the marketleading urban SUV. For further information on the new Captur, see www.renault.ie.

It’s nearly the end of the road for the manual handbrake DECLAN GLYNN

Now you see it ... but manual handbrakes are going the way of the dodo in new cars

THE manual handbrake is quickly becoming a thing of the past in the new car market, with 70% of current models coming only with an electronic parking brake with no manual option.

Indeed, some manufacturers – namely, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lexus, Mercedes and Porsche – have discarded the mechanical handbrake across their entire

model line-up, meaning it’s electronic or nothing if you want a car from these brands.

The trend for replacing manual handbrakes with electronic ones is increasing, too.

In 2018, 37% of cars had a manual handbrake, with just 30% having one today.

Dacia and Suzuki are among the car makers to continue to offer a manual handbrake across their ranges, but with seven out

of 10 new cars coming as standard with an electronic handbrake, the familiar ratchet sound of a brake being applied is set to be consigned to the history books.

Advancements in car technology are happening at a rate never seen before, so it is logical that electronic systems will take over from their mechanical counterparts.

A major advantage of the electronic handbrake is the assistance

they give for hill starts, and this can be a huge benefit to learner drivers and fully qualified drivers who have a fear of their car rolling backwards on an incline.

However, one drawback the demise of the mechanical parking brake brings, is the fact that the handbrake turn – performed safely in track conditions, of course – may become an unachievable prospect for the latest generation of drivers.

24 DUBLIN GAZETTE 19 December 2019

DUBLIN SENIORS

This week we speak to CEO of ALONE, Sean Moynihan

Public urged to be mindful of vulnerable seniors this Christmas ALONE is a national organisation that supports and empowers older people to age happily and securely at home.

They support individuals and their families, work with other organisations, and campaign nationwide to improve the lives of older people.

They work with all older people, including those who are lonely, isolated, homeless, living in poverty, or are experiencing other difficulties.

ALONE supports them through these challenges to help them find long-term solutions.

CEO of ALONE, Sean Moynihan

CEO of ALONE, Sean Moynihan (pictured) spoke to Dublin Gazette and appeals to our readers to be extra mindful of our vulnerable senior citizens over the festive season.

“With the festive season well and truly upon us, it is a wonderful time of year for families, friends and communities to come together and connect.

For many of us it is the only time of year that we meet up with some family members and neighbours, and the Christmas season is one which is full of reunions and reminiscences.

However, the winter season is not

without its challenges, particularly for older people who are experiencing loneliness, living in poor housing conditions, or experiencing financial difficulties – and unfortunately through our work in ALONE, we work with more and more people facing these challenges every year.

At ALONE, we support older people to age happily and securely at home.

This year we have supported more than 5,000 older people who are experiencing loneliness, housing and health challenges, difficulties accessing services, fuel poverty and other difficulties.

We work with all older people, from those who are most vulnerable to those who are most active and independent.

Even though Christmas is a time for connection, there are many older people we work with who will be spending Christmas alone, not by their preference.

There are thousands of older people across Ireland who struggle with loneliness, and Christmas is just one of many long nights throughout the winter months which can be particularly difficult.

One in ten people over 75 feel lonely a lot of the time.

This year, ALONE will deliver Christmas dinners to older people spending Christmas Day by themselves.

However, loneliness isn’t just an issue on the day itself; for many older people it is an issue all year round.

Many of us don’t realise the impact that loneliness can have on your physical as well as your mental health.

Not only has loneliness been associated with mental ill-health, it is also linked to adverse outcomes including premature nursing home admission.

Sean Moynihan is pictured with staff and service users of ALONE. Picture: Jason Clarke Alone

And most troublingly, older people experiencing high levels of loneliness are almost twice as likely to die within six years as those who are not lonely.

We can all be guilty of getting caught up in the build up to Christmas.

But we must remember that for older people, challenges including loneliness, the increased difficulty of getting out and about, the cost of fuel and heat-

to have to rely on charity. Many of the people we serve at ALONE have worked or in some cases struggled all their lives.

For many, things have changed as they have gotten older and they need support.

Most never thought they would be using our services in their old age. But until we fully acknowledge the challenges experienced by older people

ing, and associated challenges relating to mobility, finance, and health, can all prove a struggle at this time of the year.

We are working with increasing numbers of older people who are experiencing challenges such as notices to quit from rented accommodation, substandard housing conditions, and many who are struggling to manage on the State pension.

The important thing to remember is that there are solutions to these challenges.

But we need to ensure that every older person knows that support is available.

Getting older can and should be a positive experience, and if not already that way, we can help to support and make it so.

At ALONE, we don’t want anyone

and resource the solutions, NGOs like ALONE must step up to fill the gaps.

“

Our volunteers always emphasise the impact that volunteering has had on them and how much benefit it brings to their lives. In helping someone else, you can actually help yourself.

This year we have welcomed the launch by Government of a €3 million funding scheme for organisations that combat loneliness, and the release of a Joint Policy Statement on Housing Options for our Ageing Population.

However, we need to do more, and as a community we need to respond too.

Our volunteers always emphasise the impact that volunteering has had on them and how much benefit it brings to their lives. In helping someone else, you can actually help yourself.

If you are among the lucky people looking forward to the festive season, I encourage you to spread it forward in your community.

During winter we all value connection. It only takes a few minutes to make a difference this Christmas.

If you need support from ALONE, or are interested in volunteering, find more details on www.alone.ie or call ALONE on 0818 222 024.

ALONE service users Paul Hynes and Don Johnson. Picture: Jason Clarke Alone

19 December 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 25

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28 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 19 December 2019

19 December 2019 WEST  DUBLIN GAZETTE 29

BASKETBALL: REIGNING CHAMPIONS FINDING THINGS TOUGH SO FAR IN SUPER LEAGUE

Liffey Celtics’ good run halted

by Mercy as Eanna set pace SUPER LEAGUE BASKETBALL  DAVE DONNELLY

sport@dublingazette.com

CHAMPIONS Le ixlip Amenities Liffey Celtics fell to their fifth defeat of the women’s Super League season as they were soundly beaten 76-33 by top-of-the-table DCU Mercy.

Last year’s double winners picked up wins in each of their two previous games to move within three points of the top four but they rarely looked likely to make it three in a row in DCU. Mark Byrne’s side go into the Christmas break seventh in the table as they struggled to contain the country’s form side.

The Celtics managed just eight points in the opening two quarters and went in at the break with a deficit of 31 points.

Impressive work from Kate O’Flaherty, who topscored with 11 points, Aine O’Connor and Ailbhe

O’Connor saw the Celtics get the scoreboard ticking in the second half.

The damage had already been done, however, and DCU pulled further ahead as they spread points evenly around the team, with Meredith Burkhall leading the charts with 16.

In the men’s Super League, Abbey Seals Dublin Lions pushed early-season pacesetters DBS Éanna all the way before eventually succumbing to a 92-76 defeat.

Jarrett Gray’s impressive personal haul of 23 led the way for the Lions, while Ramonn Nelson wasn’t far behind with 18 to his name. Éanna had too much quality, however, as Stefan Zecevic clocked up a tally of 23, while Marko Tomic scored 17 and Mark Reynolds 16 to keep the Ballyroan side three points from the summit.

Griffith College Templeogue slipped two places to fourth fol-

lowing their 90-79 home defeat to Belfast Star, who replaced them in second position as a result.

The sides were separated by just a point going into the final quarter but two three-pointers from Connor Johnston helped the Antrim side to inch clear in the latter stages.

Lorcan Murphy led the scoring for Templeogue with an impressive personal tally of 29, while Darren Townes landed 15 and Jason Killeen 12 in a nip-and-tuck game.

In women’s Division One, Templeogue fell further behind leaders Ulster University and Trinity Meteors as they were beaten 82-68 by their Dublin rivals.

Lynn Tunnah was Templeogue’s top scorer with 11, while Vernisha Andrews and Morgan O’Donnell each landed ten apiece.

Sarah Kenny and Lauren Grigsby led the way for Meteors with 20 points each, while Carolyn Binder and Edel Thornton also posted double figures.

Liffey Celtics have not quite emulated last season’s form

GOAL ambassadors Ciara Mageean, Jenny Murphy and writer Paul Howard, race againt Saoirse Moore at the Goal Mile launch. Picture: Leon Farrell/Photocall Ireland

Christmas Day call for Goal Mile

GOAL MILE

 sport@dublingazette.com

LO C A L M A N, G e r r y Martin is calling on the communities in Lucan to show their Christmas spirit and join the GOAL Mile at the Lucan Harriers Track on Christmas Day between 10am and 12pm.

Martin is reminding people interested that people do not need to

register before the event.

Friends and families can turn up on the day to donate what they can before walking, running or crawling a mile.

A record number of people are expected to take part in Ireland’s favourite festive fundraiser, the GOAL Mile, which takes place in cities across the country over the Christmas period.

Martin has been run-

ning the mile in Lucan for many years now and hopes to join GOAL in making this the best event to date.

Last year, the GOAL Miles raised €250,000 for overseas aid programmes in 13 countries to help the world’s most vulnerable communities.

L a s t y e a r, G OA L reached more than 5.5 million people in need across the world. GOAL’s

work includes supporting those displaced by the ongoing conflict in Syria; running nutrition programmes saving the lives of infants under six months in refugee camps in Ethiopia and providing ongoing emergency response to thousands of people affected by Cyclone Ida in Zimbabwe.

All GOAL Miles are listed at goalmile.org with dates and times.

30 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 19 December 2019

CLUB NOTES BALLYBODEN ST ENDA’S THE ANNUAL Declan Maguire Memorial Tournament will take place on Stephen’s Day in PUM at 11.30am, dust off the boots and come down and remember one of our great players.

Congratulations to Dr. Jim Gavin who was conferred last week with the Doctorate of Philosophy

by DCU. Congrats to our Boden Footballers who were awarded the Dubs Blue Stars today & to Colm Basquel who was awarded Player Of The Year.

There was no winner of this week’s Ballyboden St Enda’s Lotto - This week’s jackpot is €15,000.

The numbers drawn were 17, 10, 12, 6

ST PAT’S, PALMERSTOWN OUR ANNUAL Paul Hegarty Memorial match will be held on Saturday 28 December in Glenaulin Park. Funds raised will be donated to cancer research. Further details will be circulated during the week.

Tickets for our National Club Draw are still on sale.

A further bonus draw will be held in the Palmerstown House on Monday night, 23 December.

Winning Lotto numbers this week were 2, 5, 14 and 17. The Lucky Dip winners were Laura Ryan, Ger Glennon, Lillian Connolly

and David Murphy who won €50 each.

There will be no draw next weekend. The next draw will on Sunday night 5 January, 2020 when the jackpot will be €8,400.

Again, this is an important fundraiser for the club. We would ask all club members to support the Lotto and spread the word to family and friends over the Christmas period.

Lotto tickets are available online at www.stpatricksgaa.ie and from SuperValu, Palmerstown House, and Manor Hair Studios.

THOMAS DAVIS

THIS WEEK’S Lotto No’s 1,3,7, 21Jackpot won. Next Week’s Jackpot €1,000.

Tickets are now available for the Christmas Double Up Draw. Tickets €20 each available from Kevin Lydon 087 633 8227 or all Team Mentors.

Tickets also available at the Club Bar. Members are asked to support this important Fund Raising Venture.

Camogie Training will resume early in early 2020. Academy will resume early in the new year.

Congratulations to Davy Keogh who played on the Dublin Senior Hurling Team in their Walsh Cup Match v Westmeath at the weekend.

A posthumous award for the work Andrew O’Donnell provided to Club over the years.

A proud night for the O’Donnell family.

ST MARY’S GFC LOTTO numbers drawn 6-715-19. No Jackpot winner.

Jackpot remains capped €8000 with €3400 roll-over.

Two Match 3 winners €50 each, Ken Reilly, Saggart & Stephen Finn, The Lugg.

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

Date for the diaries guys, on Saturday 28th December we host a joint Christmas / New year party for members and friends, come along and enjoy a festive feast of music

and craic, live band on the night playing the very best party tunes and complimentary hot and cold foods, also free draw on the night for anyone that has purchased one of the clubs national draw tickets!

Our yearly bag packing fundraiser in aid of our senior citizens Christmas party is nearly upon us. If youcan spare an hour or two please contact Brendan Murray 086 0401169,.

GAELIC GAMES: BRILLIANT BASH FOR BALLYBODEN’S 50TH

Boden toast half century in style  CÓILÍN DUFFY

sport@dublingazette.com

BALLYBODEN St Enda’s celebrated their 50th anniversary in style with over 900 people in attendance at the Citywest Hotel for a massive night of celebrations, bringing down the curtain officially on the half-century festivities for the Firhouse Road club.

It was a fitting end to a year which has seen the senior footballers unbeaten in both league and championship in Dublin and Leinster, culminating in a second-ever AIB Leinster Senior Football title in the week of the gala event, after they beat Carlow’s Éire Óg in the decider in Portlaoise.

The senior footballers were among the successful teams of 2019 which were paraded into the room on the night, as Boden toasted its members who came home with silverware during the past 12 months.

On an enjoyable night, Declan O’Brien was on MC duties, with some singing waiters and Band ‘The Harley’s’ among those providing the enter-

Members of the Ballyboden St Enda’s senior football squad at the club’s 50th anniversary. Picture: Cliona Mellett

tainment.

Neil Buckingham penned a special Ballyboden St Enda’s 50th anniversary song, while Sinead Ryan and Robert Clifford produced an excellent video, looking back at 50 years of the club, which can be watched back online via the clubs various social media channels and

HIGHER LEARNING DCU honour Gavin with honorary degree DUBLIN CITY University conferred former Dublin manager Jim Gavin with an honorary doctorate at a special ceremony on its Glasnevin Campus this week.

He is pictured with Dr Martin McAleese, DCU Chancellor, Professor Brian MacCraith, DCU President, and Dublin player, Jonny Cooper.

“I am honoured, and I am humbled by this award and I accept it on behalf of the people who have shaped me and the teams, institutions and organisations that I have been privileged to represent and serve,” Gavin said at the event.

Picture: Julien Behal photography

at their website www. bodengaa.ie Another feature of the night were the chairman’s awards, with Kathleen O’Sullivan recognised for her selfless work with the club; general manager Noel Sheridan, and John Kirwan (chairman of the 50th anniversary) were also honoured.

“People say we are the

biggest club in the country. But, for me, that’s not the most important thing,” Ballyboden chairman Ciarán Maguire told Dublin Gazette.

“The standard of playing and activities that we undertake is the most important thing, rather than the size of the club.

“We’ve had a brilliant year celebrating our 50th

anniversary. The committee organised an excellent series of events involving games, culture and the community.

“People of all ages are here tonight, including people that founded the club, and it’s important that we celebrate that and give them recognition so we can be encouraged to build on that.”

19 December 2019 WEST  DUBLIN GAZETTE 31

HURLING: NEW BOSS TEST HIS OPTIONS AS SCHUTTE RETURNS TO THE FOLD

FOOTBALL

Dubs and Gavin get RTE gong for 2019 heroics

Dublin’a Aidan Mellett on the attack;inset - Mattie Kenny. Main picture: Cliona Mellett

Kenny content as Dublin reign begins WALSH CUP Dublin Westmeath  CÓILÍN DUFFY sport@dublingazette.com

1-22 0-17

DUBLIN’S senior hurlers began their Walsh Cup 2020 campaign on a strong note, delivering an eight-point win over Westmeath at TEG Cusack Park, Mullingar on Sunday afternoon last.

Manager Mattie Kenny was pretty pleased with his side’s performance, fielding a largely experimental side, handing Dublin Senior debuts to five players.

Among the newcomers was Belfast native Lorcan McMullan who put in an incredible shift over the 70 minutes plus, and scored three points from play for the Metropolitans from midfield.

McMullan, who has played for Kilmacud Crokes in recent years, really grasped his chance with aplomb.

The returning Donal Burke also made a strong contribution, with the Na Fian-

na clubman having missed out on the 2019 championship.

Cuala’s Mark Schutte also made a welcome return after a three-year layoff through a mix of being involved with the Dublin footballers and also injury in the past 12 months.

“Mark did really well,” Kenny said after the game.

“He got 70 minutes under his belt.

Mark was anxious to get out there today and get some game time.

“Over the past few seasons he’s had a number of injuries and a number of issues that were unfortunate.

“He’s back training away now and he’s getting strong and fitter, and his hurling will be coming on with every game and every training session. We are hopeful that Mark will have a really good season for us next year.”

It was Westmeath who got off to the stronger start in this contest, as the hosts led by by 0-5 to 0-2 after nine minutes, with Niall Mitchell and Eoin Price hitting two points each, before Darragh

Clinton ensured a three-point lead, after converting a free.

Dublin levelled the tie by the 13th minute, following scores from Kilmacud Crokes clubman Oisín O’Rorke (2) and Na Fianna’s Burke.

Kenny’s charges kept up the momentum and claimed a lead they wouldn’t relinquish after Aidan Mellett grabbed the only goal of the game a minute later.

The Ballyboden St Enda’s clubman finished to the net after some great support play.

These scores came in a brilliant spell for the visitors, where they grabbed 1-7 unanswered, with Schutte, Thomas Davis clubman Davy Keogh, McMullan and Burke all adding fine points, to ensure a seven-point lead.

That advantage was extended to double scores at the break, as O’Rorke, Burke and McMullan continued to add scores, to ensure a 1-15 to 0-9 advantage.

Westmeath battled hard on the restart, with the likes of half-time substitute Derek McNicholas and Price tak-

ing scores, but the 53rd minute dismissal of Joe Boyle on a second yellow card proved costly.

Dublin continued to register some fine scores after this, with Davy Keogh landing a fine sideline cut, and Donal Burke and Mark Schutte also on target on the way to a richly deserved victory.

Boss Kenny was, overall, pleased with his sides display.

“This time of the year is about the preseason. A lot of the lads are doing heavy gym programmes, and a little bit of running.

“Obviously their hurling would be a little bit off at this time of the year. One thing is always constant, and that’s guys attitude and work-rate.

“The guys put in a good shift out there today, and I suppose that’s all we can ask of them.

“It’s like a training session, you come down and work hard for 70 minutes. In fairness to them they put some nice passages of play together, and got some nice scores, and they did pretty well.”

DUBLIN’S men’s senior footballers were honoured with the prestigious ‘Team of the Year’ award at the RTÉ Sport Awards on a live TV show from RTÉ Studios in Donnybrook on Saturday night.

The ‘five-in-a-row’ All-Ireland winners became the first Dublin GAA team to take the award, and the first Gaelic Games team to be honoured since the Cork Ladies Footballers picked up the award in 2014.

“Credit to the lads, eventhough a lot of them are still young, these are lads I looked up too in 2011, seeing Ciaran Kilkenny out there (in the Minor All-Ireland), and Brian (Fenton) - getting the opportunity to play with him also with Raheny,” Dublin forward Brian Howard said.

“It’s special when you get to play with your friends and the lads you looked up too, on the pitch on the special days in September.”

The team were nominated alongside the Dublin Ladies Footballers; Dundalk FC; Galway’s Senior Camogie team; the Irish women’s hockey team; the Irish showjumping team; Rowers Gary O’Donovan and Fintan McCarthy; Team Tiger Roll, and the Tipperary senior hurlers.

Earlier, Jim Gavin picked up the ‘Manager of the Year’ award for the first time, a fitting accolade after the Clondalkin native stepped down recently, having guided Dublin to the ‘five-in-a-row’ He received the award from Dublin legend Tony Hanahoe.

GazetteSPORT DECEMBER 19-26, 2019

ALL OF YOUR WEST DUBLIN SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 29-31 33-39

Farrell brings perfect pedigree to Dubs’ role  CÓILÍN DUFFY

sport@dublingazette.com

DESSIE Farrell will lead the Dublin senior footballers in 2020, taking over the mantle from Jim Gavin as manager with confirmation coming at the Dublin GAA convention on Thursday night.

The Na Fianna clubman’s appointment was announced by outgoing Dublin GAA chairman Sean Shanley to delegates.

Farrell will set about appointing his selectors in the coming days, although it is likely that there will be little change in the back-room setup, according to new chairman Michael Seavers.

“We’ve had discussions with Dessie about what he wants in the background,” Seavers said.

“We have offered our expertise.

We aren’t going to be, and we never have been, a county that puts restrictions on somebody. We trust him to do the job.

“We have a lot of the professionalism and methodology in place from Jim’s time, and we don’t see a need to break it up.

“From talking to Dessie, he doesn’t see too either. We take all of the things that are going to make us better, and I don’t think there will be much alteration to what is already there - if it’s not broken why fix it?!”

The former Gaelic Players Association chief executive brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having guided Dublin minor and Under-21 teams to All-Ireland successes.

Farrell won an All-Ireland senior football title alongside Gavin in 1995, and is seen by many as his natural successor as senior manager.

Seavers says Gavin’s boots will be tough to fill.

“It’s a hard act to follow, that page is now closed. Dessie followed the same apprenticeship that Jim followed, with All-Irelands at Under21 level.

“He told us in our discussions with him the pain of losing the minor final to Tipperary in 2011 is as good a learning curve as it was for the senior footballers with Donegal.

“Dessie is well qualified. With him, it will be a case of man managing, because of the ability of the guys.

“He does recognise that they are super athletes, and they are so humble. He’ll just build on that culture Jim and his backroom team have.

“We have full confidence in Dessie that the team will still be there or thereabouts [challenging for All-

Irelands].”

Seavers says that it is important for the progression of the team, that Farrell has worked with many of the current Dublin senior players in the past at underage levels.

“It’s very important for Dublin; we tended to be ‘gung-ho’ over the years, a manager stepped down and everything went,” he said.

“As a county board, we were conscious that we had a role in the background, that we had professional people - medical people, S&C and nutrition; that we took on board, and they now are our backroom team, and they are the people we can offer to the likes of Dessie and Mattie [Kenny].

“It takes a lot of pressure off that they don’t have to go searching for these things, that they are inherent within Dublin GAA.”

Dessie Farrell is the new Dublin manager.

Picture: Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile