Dublin Gazette: West Edition

DublinGazette FEBRUARY 13-19, 2020

VALENTINEGIFTS: We’re sharing the love VALENTINE this week with a range of gift ideas that are sure to be a hit with your other half SEE PAGE 19

SINN FEIN TRIGGER A SEISMIC SHIFT IN POLITICS ‘Old guard’ of Irish politics is swept back by a Leftist wave

 CÓILÍN DUFFY

Group Editor

THE political landscape across Dublin, and indeed the country, has suffered its most radical change since the foundation of the state, after Sinn Fein candidates topped the polls in eight of the 11 Dublin

West Edition FREE

THE LATEST NEWS & SPORT FROM SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL AREA

Cometh the hour, cometh the woman ... Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald celebrates the party’s resounding success in General Election 2020. The Sinn Fein surge marks a seismic shift in Irish politics, smashing the dominance of Fine Gael and Fianna Fail for the past 90 years. Picture: Leah Farrell/RollingNews.ie

constituencies, where they had a total of 10 TDs elected, out of 37 nationally.

Sinn Fein polled 200,000 votes more than any other party across the board, but it looks like a case of same-old, same-old with musings that Fianna Fail and Fine Gael are set to go into coalition once again.

Such a scenario would be hugely disap-

Find us on

pointing for Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald – not running more candidates in General Election 2020 may come back Keep reading, to haunt her and her party. keep recycling 2020 has been about the shift to the Left, – thank you but it looks increasingly likely we’ll be ‘left’ with the same government in the 33rd Dail.

SEE PAGES 7-9

2 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 13 February 2020

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POPULAR ROUTE HAD BEEN CURTAILED DUE TO ANTI-SOCIAL ACTS

Dublin Bus reinstates ‘problem’ No 27 route PADRAIG CONLON

DUBLIN BUS drivers have agreed to re-instate a popular cross-city route which was curtailed due to serious anti-social behaviour.

Route No 27, which travels from Clare Hall to Jobstown, has been plagued with anti-social incidents over the past year.

Ongoing attacks on staff and buses on the west Tallaght part of the route had led several drivers to refuse to work it.

Horrific reports of drivers being spat at and hit with rocks and stones led the National Bus and Rail Union (NBRU) to last week announce plans to curtail

the No 27 bus on election day, last Saturday, in order to raise awareness of the issues.

That action was averted following a meeting last Friday in which concerns about the drivers’ safety was made clear.

In order to allay drivers’ fears, Dublin Bus have now promised to dedicate an inspector to the problem area, while extra gardai will also be on patrol.

Sean Yeates, from the NBRU, welcomed the plans to stamp out the attacks on Dublin Bus staff, saying: “Drivers’ safety and that of those they serve is being compromised by a very small minority of people,

to the detriment to the vast majority of commuters who just want to get from A to B. “One driver is out sick after he had a rock thrown at him, through the window on the side of the bus.

He’s out sick now the last five, six weeks.

“Their safety and that of those they serve has been compromised by a very small minority.

“Over the years, we used to have a CIE car with garda support out in west Tallaght.

“It was there on a nightly basis, it would follow the buses around, and the incidents decreased because there was a visible

[policing] presence on the ground.”

The union says it had 48 incidents reported nationwide on its website, with 15 of those happening on the No 27 route.

Those included buses damaged by rocks, physical assaults and verbal assault.

The union has since engaged with local representatives and is now satisfied to run the full route as per the schedule.

Dermot O’Leary, general secretary of NBRU, says the union is reiterating its call for full-time transport police.

Speaking last Friday, O’Leary also spoke of his disappointment that a large number of local representatives have failed to help find solutions to the problems.

He said: “Representatives from the NBRU attended at the Tallaght Forum meeting to discuss the issue of the withdrawal of the No 27 bus service through Jobstown.

“The forum is structured to provide for bus drivers, through their respective trade unions, gardai, local community representa-

“

tives and politicians to engage on issues associated with anti-social behaviour which, unfortunately, have increased alarmingly over recent months.

“Whilst it is disappointing that a large number of local representatives have not been fully engaging with the forum over recent months, [Deputy John Lahart [FF] and [Cllr] Charlie O’Connor

tations made by Deputy Lahart, Cllr O’Connor and [Deputy] Sean Crowe [SF], assurances have been given by Dublin Bus and gardai that resources will immediately be provided to assist in combatting the anti-social behaviour in the affected areas.

“The NBRU has subsequently agreed to restore the No 27 service to these areas.”

[FF] have been to the fore in assisting with our attempts to both highlight and seek solutions to the epidemic proportions of anti-social behaviour.

“The NBRU have long been campaigning for a dedicated Garda Public Transport unit to help in combatting the type of behaviour being witnessed across our public transport system.

“Following represen-

In 2019, almost 1,000 incidents of anti-social behaviour on Dublin Bus routes were reported.

In a letter to then Minister for Transport Shane Ross, the NBRU said most of these incidents were concentrated in about “half a dozen hotspots” around the city and “no other occupation would tolerate such levels of antisocial behaviour in their workplaces”.

The National Bus and Rail Union have long been campaigning for a dedicated Garda Public Transport unit to help in combatting the type of behaviour being witnessed across our public transport system

For further information

www.dublingazette.com

01 60 10 240 Dublin Bus route No 27 has been plagued with anti-social incidents over the past year

13 February 2020 WEST  DUBLIN GAZETTE 3

TEMPLEOGUE: CLARITY SOUGHT ON HOW BEST TO EDUCATE THEIR AUTISTIC CHILDREN

Parents come together to address autism concerns CÓILÍN DUFFY

CONCERNED PARENTS from across the capital came together in large numbers at St Mary’s College RFC last week to express their concerns over access to school places for children with special educational needs.

They were joined by a number of politicians, who took time out from their election campaigns to attend the event, which was organised

by South Dublin group ‘Involve Autism’.

The speakers on the night included Adam Harris (CEO AsIAm) and Andrew Torrence from the National Council for Special Education.

It emerged from the meeting that parents are being forced to apply to up to 30 schools in an effort to secure an appropriate placement for their child in primary and second level education “We’ve come together since 2018 as parents first of all, as be ing parents of a child with autism can be very isolating,” Miriam Kenny, chairperson of Involve Au t i s m to l d D u b l i n Gazette.

“One of the biggest concerns for the parents in our group is the education provision for their children.

“If you are a child with autism, when you go to school there’s three different levels of support

you might need depending on your diagnosis.

“If you are a child who has a Level 1 diagnosis you might need some support in the classroom, meaning you might have a SNA. “Some other children who have more complex needs but can still manage in the mainstream would probably need the support of an autism special class.

“The National Council for Special Education has provision for that.

“Thirdly your child might need extra, extra support of a specialist school. The first thing is you can go to your local school and a mainstream setting, if you are luckily enough to have an SNA.”

Some parents have had to resort to moving to other parts of the country to get a school place.

The meeting heard that in one case a child is travelling 46km each day to school, despite living 200 metres from the local school, and that the child’s parents are distraught.

The National Council for Special Education has published policy advice recommending that children with Special Educational Needs will effectively be mainstreamed.

This has led to confusion over how children are to be educated. The parents feel confused and are seeking clarity

Some of the speakers and members of South Dublin group ‘Involve Autism’ at the event. Picture: Mick Quinn mqphoto

on how best to educate their autistic children.

They have called on TDs to pledge their support to ensure that their children’s’ education

is a priority, and they want to ensure that the process which started on November 14 last by the Minister for Education continues, and that

schools are ‘supported, re s o u rc e d a n d t h a t appropriate training is given to Teachers, SNAs and the School community.

4 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 13 February 2020

COURTS: RETURNED TO ROB THE SAME BRANCH AGAIN FOLLOWING MONTH

Thief robbed McDonald’s wearing wig, sunglasses A ROBBER donned a wig and sunglasses while robbing his local McDonald’s and returned to rob the same branch again the following month, a court has heard.

Anthony Sweeney (37), who earlier robbed a beauty salon and a pedestrian on a footbridge, told gardai he committed the offences in an effort to feed his drug habit.

Sweeney has 25 previous convictions for offences including carrying a firearm with criminal intent, robbery and possession of an article with intent to cause injury all of which are prior to 2011.

Sweeney, of St Marks Crescent, Clondalkin, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to robbery at Collinstown Road and Liffey Valley footbridge on May 27, 2019.

He also pleaded guilty to rob-

bery of McDonald’s, Liffey Valley, Clondalkin on August 5 and September 25, 2019.

Detective Garda Kevin O’Connor told Kieran Kelly BL, prosecuting, that Sweeney, wearing a wig and sunglasses, robbed a staff member after approaching the counter at McDonald’s, Liffey Valley.

He was chased by gardai as he cycled away and the wig, glasses and €450 cash recovered.

The following month Sweeney approached a staff member at the same branch of McDonald’s and threatened them with an iron bar.

The manager attempted to stop him leaving but was pushed out of the way. Sweeney was identified on CCTV and arrested.

Earlier in the year, Sweeney had robbed a nail salon of cash while wearing glasses and a scarf

over his nose. He had demanded money from staff while armed with a long handled blade.

Later that day a man crossing the footbridge at Liffey Valley was robbed by a number of persons, one of whom had a knife which was put to the victim’s neck. One of the men involved had a bike and gardai on patrol encountered Sweeney on his bike.

He was later arrested and interviewed.

Sweeney committed the McDonald’s robberies while on High Court bail for the earlier offences. The prosecuting gardai agreed with Nicola Cox BL, defending, that Sweeney was in the throes of a drug addiction and struggling to feed his habit.

They agreed Sweeney was highly intoxicated at the time of the robberies and made admis-

sions after arrest.

Det Gda O’Connor agreed his disguises were of little assistance to him and he was easily identifiable.

He was also known as someone who used a bike in the local area.

He agreed Sweeney was a carer for his father and was

under so much strain that he had asked to go into custody. He accepted Sweeney was genuinely remorseful.

Judge Melanie Greally ordered a probation report and adjourned sentencing until April 21, next, when a full plea in mitigation will be given on Sweeney’s behalf by his legal team.

ADAMSTOWN

Free Zumba classes ADAMSTOWN Youth and Community Centre (AYCC) is set to take part in a great initiative by South Dublin County Council - Inspired @ South Dublin.

Their ‘Challenge’ for you to try is 8 FREE Zumba classes with instructor Nurlina.

The class will take place every Wednesday (6-7pm), starting on March 4 in the Sports Hall.

Booking is essential for this 8-week challenge as places are limited.

Hopefully, you will keep up the class after the free classes have finished.

To book your FREE place, please email: manager@aycc.onmicrosoft. com with your name and phone number.

Check out the link below for other challenges taking place around the county: http://www. inspiredsouthdublin.ie/

13 February 2020 WEST  DUBLIN GAZETTE 5

LUCAN: THE IMPORTANT ROLE WOMEN HAVE TO PLAY IN ESTABLISHING LASTING PEACE

Peace Symposium a great success PADRAIG CONLON

AHMADIYYA Muslim Ladies recently held their 2nd annual Peace Symposium with “Pathway to Peace: Women’s role as peace makers” as this years theme.

T h i s ye a r ’s eve n t, which was held on Sunday, February 2 at Finnstown Castle Hotel Lucan, was attended by around 60 women from all walks of life who gathered to discuss and learn about the important role women have to play in establishing lasting peace across the globe.

The event was representative of women of all and no faiths and a wide range of professional and academic backgrounds.

The aim of the Peace Symposium is to initiate the conversation of the responsibility of women in establishing peace.

As noted in various studies and discourses, sustainable peace can only be achieved with the involvement of women at its core.

With three speakers from different faith perspectives including

Islam, Christianity and Hinduism alongside with the address by the Mayor of South Dublin Cllr Vicki Casserly PC, this year’s event was a great success.

The evening began with a warm reception in the hall where guests gathered and mingled, exploring the exhibitions on many areas such as The Review of Religions, the translations of the Holy Quran, as well as an exhibition on the status of women in Islam and in particular, the concept of the hijab.

Followed by the recitation of the Holy Quran the first speaker Ms Maria Murphy, represented Christianity.

She outlined some of the vital roles that Irish women played to keep peace in Ireland and explained how mothers tried to keep peace in Ireland during the Civil War. She also described that Christian teachings are laid out in the “Beatitude”.

Ms Minu Mishra representing Hinduism spoke about the unique qualities that only women possess in order to bring

peace in the world.

Guest speaker Casserly, praised the Ahmadiyya Muslim Ladies and acknowledged the efforts carried by them for integration into wider community.

Finally the Keynote address was delivered

by Ms Nudrat Malik who gave an insightful view into the Islamic perspective on the vital necessity of peace at all levels of society, whether governmental or domestic.

S h e re m i n d e d a l l attendees that justice, opportunity, knowledge, understanding, tolerance and peace at home are all important to establish peace at a wider level.

In Islam, great emphasis is laid on peace at home as the building block of all societies.

Women can be the architects of peace in the home.

She narrated the beautiful hadith, “Paradise lies under the feet of your mother”, highlighting the responsibility of mothers to create peace for children. She also touched upon education as essential in establishing peace and counteracting acts of

The event featured three speakers from different faiths including Islam, Christianity and Hinduism alongside Mayor of South Dublin Cllr Vicki Casserly

aggression.

She mentioned that Islam has encouraged the acquiring of knowledge especially for women.

In h e r c o n c l u d i n g remarks the President

of AMA Women’s Auxiliary Ms Sajida Aleem, expressed thanks to all the guests for their participation and requested them to help us in building a mosque in Dublin.

She also praised the Irish people and country by saying that Ireland is a peaceful country and people are very friendly.

The feedback from guests was highly posi-

tive and encouraging, with many women eager to learn more about Islam and its views, not only on peace but also on the status that women are granted.

6 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 13 February 2020

GALLERIES OF THE WEEK

Part of the spellbinding concert and below Patrice Casey, Martina Foy, Aisha O’Brien and Sharon Lacey

Hugh Johnston and Javier Saez. Pictures: Aishling Conway

Heavenly music to help support Stewarts Care

S

OME heavenly sounds filled the air at St Philomena’s Church, Palmerstown recently as Lucan Gospel Choir held a fundraising concert for Stewarts Care.

The choral concert saw some particularly great singing from the accomplished choir, who put their years of finely

Robert and Joan Murphy

honed skills to use in staging a lovely evening of uplifting song.

The night was very well received by the audience, which included many users, friends and supporters of Stewarts Care, which has been helping people from all across the area and further afield for a century and a half.

Helen Kavanagh and Mairead Rooney

13 February 2020 WEST  DUBLIN GAZETTE 7

GENERAL ELECTION 2020 New dawn ahead after Sinn Féin success CÓILÍN DUFFY cduffy@dublingazette.com

A WEEK is a long time in politics, but when the 33rd Dáil begins next Thursday morning, it will unquestionably be one with a changed spectrum, after one of the most striking elections in the history of the state, which will be remembered for the rise of Sinn Féin, and where the left arose from the ashes.

There will be many new faces in the next Government – both right and leftleaning, but while we know the make up of the 160 TDs in Leinster House after the final counts in Wicklow and CavanMonaghan on Monday night – what about the formation of the next Government? It’s one that poses more questions than answers.

As we went to print on Wednesday afternoon, talks were ongoing between the various parties and Independents at a frantic pace, and by the weekend we should know who will be in power.

There’s certainly some overlap in terms of policy direction between the now ‘big three’ of Fianna Fáil, Sinn Féin and Fine Gael – who look liked unlikely bedfellows coming into this Election – but the reality is that more than likely two of those three will have to join up if they want to be in the next

Election 2020 will be remembered for the rise of Sinn Féin.

Government.

Fine Gael have pretty much ruled out a coalition with Sinn Féin, but over the weekend Micheal Martin began to warm to the possibility of joining up with Mary Lou’s maestros – should that happen and with a few Independents or smaller parties on board – it would be enough to form the next Government.

How did this happen?

The answer is pretty clear – people wanted change – anything other than Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil seemed to be the message – and all of the left-leaning parties certainly benefited as a result.

It might be a bold statement to make, but even some of those who voted No. 1 for a Sinn Féin candidate, might not necessarily support many of the parties aims, including their hopes for a United Ireland; but done so because they wanted something different – or may have just been impressed with the individual work being done by a SF candidate on the ground.

Saturday’s RTÉ/TG4/UCD Exit Poll showed SF, FF and FG pretty much neck and neck, and it wasn’t far from being wrong – although FG did poll worse than the poll suggested in the end, but still held onto third spot.

A changed landscape, a new era ahead – certainly interesting times ahead for Ireland.

Losing a seat is like a bereavement – Owen CÓILÍN DUFFY

LOSING A Dáil seat is like suffering a bereavement according to former Fine Gael Deputy Leader Nora Owen.

Owen was unseated twice over the course of her political career, and was in attendance at the Dublin Fingal count in Swords on Sunday, where she spoke of her concern for those across the political spectrum who were not returned to the 33rd Dáil.

Long standing politicians such as Pat ‘the Cope’ Gallagher, Shane Ross and Regina Doherty

were among the big losers as the results filtered through.

“On this day I’m very conscious of the people who are losing seats all over the country, having suffered that myself twice,” Owen told Dublin Gazette.

“It’s not a good day for them. It’s a very sad day, many of them worrying about what they will work at. Some will go for the Seanad, and some will simply go out of politics altogether.

“It’s a difficult day for their families as well.

They are human beings, they have feelings. It’s like a bereavement.

“There will be some tears shed tonight, and probably already being shed, but nonetheless that’s democracy.”

Speaking about the change towards left leaning parities and politicians, Owen questioned if it was change for the good.

“Change for what benefit,” she said.

“What does change mean? I’m around a good while now. I saw Labour getting 33% of the national vote with candidates that people didn’t know their names, and then in the next election they were gone! It remains to be seen now what can be done in order to form a Government. My

own view would be that a Government has to be formed. It’s a big decision time for all of the parties – Sinn Féín included.

“They walked away the last time, they could have been in Government and they could have begun to deliver what they have been promising.

“Have they the guts and courage to do it now and do a deal with either a group of Independents or Greens etc, or one of the two slightly bigger parties.- that is the question.

“Too be honest I think the public will punish them if they say they would prefer to be hurling on the ditch and shouting and roaring.”

8 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 13 February 2020

GENERAL ELECTION 2020

Revolution: Sinn Féin  PADRAIG CONLON

Dublin south west

“I WOKE up this morning and heard the wind battering on the panes of the windows, it is certainly a wind of change and that’s being reflected right across all the constituenc ies we’ve stood.”

Sean Crowe’s words shortly after learning he had topped the polls in Dublin South West were apt.

It was still only Sunday afternoon and he was home and dry already with 20,072 votes, 8,811 over the quota.

The Sinn Fein Deputy’s stunning result was the first confirmed seat for his party who went on to record an epic haul of 37 seats nationwide, an increase of 14 on the 2016 election.

“I feel fantastic but I’m also conscious that there’s a lot of people out there that are hurting because this government hasn’t delivered for them,” Deputy Crowe told Dublin Gazette.

“I suppose they’re relying on us now to bring about the positive change they voted for.”

The other big story in Dublin South West was the ending of Katherine Zappone’s political career.

The Minister for Children lost her seat on Monday night on the eleventh count to Noel Francis Duffy (Green Party) and John Lahart (Fianna Fáil) who took the fourth and fifth seats respectively.

Following the announcement of the result, the Independent candidate spoke of her plans for the future.

“I know there are some

paths that will be opening for me,” she said.

“What I am not going to do is run for the Seanad.

“I had five great years as a senator.

“I am moving forward outside of politics.”

The five-seater constituency took two days of counting to sort out.

Following Sean Crowe taking the first seat on Sunday almost 24 hours passed before Paul Murphy of Solidarity-People Before Profit (S-PBP) took the second seat.

Fine Gael’s Colm Brophy took the third seat after he was elected on the tenth count, with Lahart and Duffy returned on the eleventh.

The count in Citywest finished just before 9 pm on Monday, after two recounts of two separate counts along the way.

The full list of candidates who contested Dublin South West were: Ciarán Ahern (Labour), Carly Bailey (Soc ial Democrats), Colm Brophy (Fine Gael), Anne Marie Condren (Renua), Seán Crowe (Sinn Fein), Mick Duff (Independ e n t ) , Fr a n c i s No e l Duffy (Green Party), Philip Dwyer (The National Party), Sandra Fay (S-PBP), John Lahart (Fianna Fail), Paul Murp hy ( R i s e) , C h a r l i e O’Connor (Fianna Fail), De irdre O’Donovan ( Fi a n n a Fa i l ) , Co l m O’Keeffe (Independent), Ellen O’Malley Dunlop (Fine Gael) and Katherine Zappone (Independent).

Dublin miD west

SINN Fein’s Eoin Ó Broin was the big winner in Dublin Mid West topping the poll with 11,842 first

preferences to retain his seat.

Following confirmation of his win, he was quick to stress the importance of his party’s next move.

“Two things working families said to me on the doors across Dublin Mid West,” he said.

“They are fed up with things being done the way they have been done and they want someone in there to make some change.

“But they also gave us a very clear warning: ‘Don’t do what Labour did.

“Don’t do what Fine Gael did.

“Don’t turn your backs on working people and support a government that has more of the same.”

Sunday was quickly turning into Sinn Fein day in the Citywest Count Centre when Ó Broin’s party colleague Mark Ward got over the line on the second count with 9,808 votes.

The two Sinn Fein candidates eventually won 40% of the vote between them, an impressive return from the only Dublin constituency where the party had two candidates running.

The day was turning decidedly darker however for another candidate as Gino Kenny (S-PBP) all but conceded victory in a Tweet posted in the morning.

“Not looking good in getting re-elected,” he posted.

“Proud to have played a part in the legalisation of medical cannabis. “ Fo r m e a c t iv i s m doesn’t begin and end at Leinster House.”

Monday did indeed

bring tears for Gino Kenny but thankfully for him and his supporters they were the happy kind.

A Lazarus-like comeback from the Clondalkin TD saw him get re elected without reaching the quota.

In 5th place, and almost 1,500 votes behind John Curran (Fianna Fail) on Sunday in the battle for the last seat, he managed to turn it around thanks to transfers from Sinn Fein and Paul Gogarty (Ind).

After Vicki Casserly (Fine Gael) was eliminated on Monday morning her party colleague Emer Higgins benefitted greatly from 2,860 transfers to close in on the quota and leave a straight two way fight between Kenny and Curran for the fourth seat.

Following her loss in the Bye-election back in November, it was a sweet result for Councillor Higgins who managed to win back the seat for Fine Gael formerly held by Frances Fitzgerald.

For the first time in its history, Dublin Mid West will have three left wing TDs. The candidates who ran in Dublin Mid West were: Vicki Casserly (Fine Gael), John Curran (Fianna Fail), David Gardiner (Workers’ Party), Paul Nicholas Gogarty (Independent), Emer Higgins (Fine Gael), Peter Kavanagh (Green Party), Gino Kenny (Solidarity-People Before Profit), Caitríona McClean (Fianna Fail), Eoin Ó Broin (Sinn Fein), Francis Timmons (Independent), Joanna Tuffy (Labour) and Mark Ward (Sinn Fein).

Vicki Casserly and Emer Higgins

ELECTED CANDIDATES

Dublin South West Sean Crowe SF Paul Murph S-PBP Colm Brophy FG Francis Noel Duffy GP John Lahart FF

Dublin Mid West Eoin Ó Broin SF Mark Ward SF Emer Higgins FG Gino Kenny S-PBP

Paul Murphy

13 February 2020 WEST  DUBLIN GAZETTE 9

GENERAL ELECTION 2020

celebrate historic win Sean Crowe Eoin Ó Broin

Brid Smith, Gino Kenny and Richard Boyd Barrett

Colm Brophy

10 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 13 February 2020

SHOP LOCAL | THE GAZETTE FOCUSES ON INDEPENDENT AND FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESSES

It’s business as usual in Clondalkin Village WITH SPRING almost here, it is important to remember that you needn’t travel long distances for almost anything you could possibly need. In these times, it is important, now more than ever, that we support our local economy, with local spending sustaining local jobs.

Simply put, shopping locally benefits the local area.

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

The Factory Outlet on Orchard Road specialises in the supply and fitting of tiles, bathrooms, kitchens and wardrobes.

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.

Property Partners O’Brien Swaine, Clondalkin and Dundrum are part of Property Partners real estate group, which is an independently-owned auctioneering group with more than 25 offices nationwide.

The local company specialises in sales, rentals, property management and valuation of all types of residential and commercial properties across all corners of Dublin City and further afield.

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.”

“

In these times, it is important, now more than ever, that we support our local economy, with local spending sustaining local jobs

13 February 2020 WEST  DUBLIN GAZETTE 11

RED COW MORAN HOTEL: HIGHLIGHTING SAFETY SKILLS THESE YOUNG STUDENTS NEED

Roadshow delivers a hard-hitting message to students DRIVING a car in real life is not a computer game, there’s no chance to restart unscathed after a crash. That was the hard-hitting message to 700 Transition Year students attending the recent AXA Roadsafe Roadshow run in partnership with South Dublin County Council and emergency services at the Red Cow

Moran Hotel.

Aimed primarily at Transition Year students in secondary schools, The Roadshow is based on an award-winning format and depicts graphically how a night out can end in tragedy.

The show depicts what happens through

driver inexperience and overconfidence with the aim to educate and highlight the various safety skills these young students need before they get behind the wheel of a car.

Using a backdrop of contemporary music, video clips and television advertisements, the story is told by Garda David Barron, paramedic

Tony Kelly, Fire Officer Darren O’Connor and A&E Consultant, Dr Philip D’Arcy.

In 2019, 148 people lost their lives on our roads and 1,243 were seriously injured.

Over half of all fatalities have been either a driver or passenger and one third of all collisions had excessive speed as a factor.

12 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 13 February 2020

FAMILIES: BUBBLY BROADCASTER SPEAKS FOR THOUSANDS WITH A RALLYING CRY FOR HELP

Devoted daughter Teena calls for dementia supports for all

Broadcaster Teena Gates and her dad, Terry Martin (94), who was diagnosed with dementia last year

CAMPAIGNER Teena Gates has called for support for families all across Dublin and beyond living with dementia who are now “in crisis”.

The popular broadcaster revealed the heartbreaking reality of the lack of supports for the 12,498 dementia sufferers in Dublin – and their carers.

Teena – full-time carer to her dad, Terry, who was diagnosed with dementia last year – said serious gaps in essential supports and services have left people struggling.

The Clonsilla woman revealed: “I used to think I knew what being a carer was. I used to think I knew what 24/7 care meant. I didn’t have a clue.

“It means you never go to the toilet on your own

“

So many of us just need a little help, to help us love and care for the ones we love and care for

again. It means you never close the door when you shower. It means you can’t meet a friend for coffee without a complicated cover system.

“It means working outside the home is practically impossible. Yet all of these things are possible with support. So many of us just need a little help, to help us love and care for the ones we love and care for.”

The Alzheimer Society of Ireland says access to dementia care in the community depends on where you live and no county in

Ireland has an acceptable level of dementia support.

Its general election 2020 campaign, Deliver on Dementia – Time to End the Crisis, aims to ensure that dementia is included in the new Programme for Government.

Teena first spoke out last year after a successful online campaign to secure a homecare package for her 94-year-old dad, Terry Martin, who spent two months in Connolly Hospital after a fall.

She wrote an open letter to then Health Minister Simon Harris describing

how she was unable to secure supports from the HSE, and asking: “How can we do this to our loved ones?”

The campaign was widely shared on social media and Teena revealed she had been “inundated” with messages, some from people who told how their loved ones had died while they waited for packages to get them home.

Just prior to last week’s general election, Teena issued one last rallying call to General Election 2020 candidates to support the ASI call for the National Dementia Strategy to be fully implemented, home care for every person who needs it, and Dementia to be included in the Chronic Disease Management Programme.

Yes Equality added to national archives THE National Library of Ireland has announced Yes Equality as its newest participant in the Digital Pilots project – an initiative to expand its digital content collection.

Yes Equality was the driving force behind the nationwide campaign in 2015 to legalise same-sex marriage.

The group has agreed to donate more than 6,000 photographs of the campaign which were commissioned by the organisation.

Ac c o rd i n g t o t h e National Library of Ireland, the photographs “document various aspects of the campaign, including activities that tell the personal stories of campaigners and their families and friends, vot-

One for the archives ... a May 2015 image summing up the final push for a Yes vote. Picture: Paul Sharp/SHARPPIX

ing day, and post-result celebrations”.

The collection will be catalogued and made available by the library – one of the first Irish born-digital archives to be accessible in this way.

Speaking at the announcement, Dr Sandra Collins, director of the National Library, said: “As Ireland’s memory-keeper,

the library is committed to collecting and safeguarding Ireland’s many voices and diverse experiences.

“It’s very important to us that everyone feels welcome, visible and included.

“This announcement highlights the important place contemporary collecting has always had in the library’s work, captur-

ing civil rights movements and documenting social change as it happens.

“The Yes Equality visual digital archive is an important part of the story of Ireland and we are proud to add this archive to the national collections.”

Grainne Healy and Brian Sheehan, co-leaders of Yes Equality, said: “Five years on from that historic day in May 2015, when Ireland voted decisively and overwhelmingly in favour of marriage equality, we are happy to be in the National Library of Ireland to revisit the energy and optimism of that campaign.”

The donation and of the collection comes ahead of the fifth anniversary of the marriage equality referendum.

Helping Harvey Norman as it supports Peter McVerry Trust PETER Hearn, chief executive, Harvey Norman Ireland joined Pat Doyle, chief executive, Peter McVerry Trust to launch the the 2020 Making Homes campaign recently.

Harvey Norman’s Making Homes campaign to raise funds for the Peter McVerry Trust aims to bring its total over three years to €450,000, with funds used to kit-out homes for those who need them most.

Support the bake sales and other fun fundraisers at your local Harvey Norman store between now and February 23 and you will be helping the homeless.

All products from the ‘Making Homes’ collection will carry a €5 donation and customers can add a €1 donation at the checkout or online.

Donate to the Peter McVerry Trust at harveynorman.ie/makinghomes.html.

13 February 2020 WEST  DUBLIN GAZETTE 13

COUNCIL

Tourism funding available SOUTH Dublin County Co un c i l ( SD CC ) has announced the launch of its Tourism Events and Festivals Grant Scheme.

The programme is aimed at organisations and organisers who plan to hold a public festival or event within SDCC’s administrative area.

The maximum grant available is €7,500 and is paid directly relating to the number of spectators from out of county and overseas.

Event organisers can complete an application form at www.sdcc.ie and send hard copies to The County Promotion Unit, South Dublin County Council, County Hall, Tallaght, Dublin 24, or by email to econdev@sdublincoco.ie.

The closing date for applications is 3pm on April 24.

CULTURE: RUA RED TO HOST RUSSIAN ARTIST’S WORK IN AN UNUSUAL MEDIUM

Bloody art could leave a lingering interest in some topical politics PADRAIG CONLON

INSTEAD of spending an arm and leg this Valentine’s Day, how about spending some blood?

This is what Russian artist Andrei Molodkin would like from visitors to his exhibition, which opens on Friday, February 14 in Rua Red, Tallaght.

Entitled, Bloodline, this new work for Rua Red shifts focus away from music lyrics deemed unsafe by European governments to the online communication of hatespeech.

Through the medium of

human blood, Molodkin analyses the language used by different groups within volatile political systems.

Visitors will get the chance to donate their blood for the installation at the opening, administered by a qualified nurse.

An industrial machine pumps human blood across the walls, donated onsite by local social and political groups.

“As you engage with the artwork you become responsible for the content,” Andrei Molodkin told Dublin Gazette ahead of Bloodline open-

ing in Tallaght.

He said: “I want people who come to the exhibition to think and have their own opinions and not fall for propaganda and fake news.

“This exhibition also invites people to donate blood so they can be part of it – they are no longer just a witness.

“The sentences I take from quotes are shocking or repressive, and can only be erased by blood – that’s why I use blood.”

Andrei Molodkin’s previous blood exhibition, Catholic Blood, opened in Derry in 2013 and was

One of the pieces by Russian artist Andrei Molodkin, which uses real human blood to flesh out a provocative message

very controversial as it featured only blood from the Catholic community.

Molodkin, who was born in Boui, northern Russia in 1966, now lives in France but still returns to Moscow where he studied at the Department of Architecture and Industrial Design at Stroganov Institute.

Whilst studying, he served in the Soviet Army, convoying missiles through Siberia from 1985

to 1987, an experience which has heavily shaped his work.

“In the army I got to observe the language of the state, how it lies to its people, how language is so powerful,” he says.

“Bloodline is about censorship and propaganda from all over the world, and not just about the relationship between Russia and the West.

“What I’m seeing in Europe and the rise of the

Far Right in so many countries reminds me of the fall of the Soviet Union, where the working class felt abandoned by the establishment.”

Bloodline marks the final installment of the two-year collaboration between a/political and Rua Red, and opens at 6pm on Friday, February 14, running until February 27.

The exhibition is accompanied by a publication.

14 DUBLIN GAZETTE 13 February 2020

POP-UP SHOP: UNIQUE PROJECT IN TEMPLE BAR TO HELP FUND CANCER RESEARCH

Cancer Survivors can do attitude, as shop opens in Temple Bar CÓILÍN DUFFY

cduffy@dublingazette.com CANCER SURVIVORS came together for a unique project, organised by Breakthrough Cancer Research (BCR) in Temple Bar to help fund cancer research.

The charity partnered

with The Library Project to open up a ‘Pop-up Shop’ for the week around World Cancer Day – ‘The Shop that Nearly Wasn’t’, which showcased the many and varied creative contributions those who have survived, or are living with cancer, make to society.

Its name reflects the fact that these achievements have only been made possible due to the result of ground-breaking cancer research.

Art, photography, books, crafts, clothing and protective sports gear, made by cancer survivors of all ages,

from all over the island of Ireland; were among the items in stock.

“We are a research charity, and there’s a lot of emphasis on what hasn’t happened, because of World Cancer Day we decided we wanted to remind people of the distance we have travelled in terms of research,” BCR CEO Orla Dolan told Dublin Gazette.

“In Ireland there’s 190,000 survivors of cancer, which is 4% of the population. They are here because we have made all of this progress.

“There are some cancers like breast, testicular and prostrate which have survival rates in the upper 80’s and early 90’s now.

“That’s because medical advances have meant the treatments are better, and even the protocols for the treatments are better.

“There are other cancers like pancreatic which has a survival rate of 9% for 50 years, so what we wanted to do was make the point that we have made massive progress and lets celebrate that, and then let’s redouble our efforts so that we can work on the other cancers as well.”

Glasnevin native Leonie Fanning came along to volunteer at the shop, after seeing it on RTÉ News on opening day. She says it’s a brilliant idea.

“I literally saw this on the news and I came in,” she told Dublin Gazette.

“As soon as I came into the shop, I just felt ‘oh my Goodness’. Everything was lively and smiley and bright – everything was just fabulous, and then talking to Eoghan (O’Sullivan) and

Shop volunteers Melanie Hand, Leonie Fanning and Nicola Eagles

Orla and hearing about what’s happening in the background all the time is just incredible.

“I have to say I just admire them so much, because it is amazing work!”

For Leonie it was her first time to hear about the work of Breakthrough Cancer Research.

“I hadn’t known much about them because I had breast cancer, so I was dealing more with organisations such as Breast Cancer Ireland.

“When I came across this and they explained about what they do helping to find cures for cancers that have only a 20% chance of survival like pancreatic, it’s just absolutely fantastic.”

Leonie says there’s been a

huge buzz in the shop since its opening.

“It’s been fantastic. Everyone here has been fantastic.

Everyone who comes in has been supportive in helping, and it’s lovely to see it. It has been a really nice experience.

“Everybody that comes through the door has a story.

A lady came in earlier and she worked for CanTeenteenagers with cancer.

“Just to hear her stories was great, but there were positives as well. We are inclined to touch on negatives as Irish people, but everyone has certainly been touched by cancer haven’t they?”

While the shop has now closed at its temporary location of 4 Temple Bar, those involved are keen to reopen

a physical presence shortly in the capital, and have issued a call-out to those who may be able to help them secure a more permanent location.

“We got our temporary location from The Library Project, who are doing it in partnership with us,” Dolan said.

“In Temple Bar there’s a lot of people going by all the time, and it’s a great place to be.”

The Shop That Nearly Wasn’t continues online, where a wide variety of items can be purchased at www.shopthatnearlywasnt. ie.

You can get further information and details about the work of Breakthrough Cancer Research at www.breakthroughcancerresearch.ie

Some of the fantastic creations by cancer survivors of all ages

13 February 2020 DUBLIN GAZETTE 15

MAGAZINE

DUBLIN

MUSIC P17

FOOD & DRINK P20

TRAVEL P21

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

STEPHEN VERNON | CELEBRATE EXTRAORDINARY LEADERSHIP

Green property founder gets philanthropy award PADRAIG CONLON

STEPHEN Vernon was named The Community Foundation for Ireland National Philanthropist of the Year at a recent event in Dublin.

A founder of Green Property and a well-known philanthropist, Stephen was honoured for his work in assisting community groups, helping charitable causes and giving back to society through his charitable giving.

The Community Foundation for Ireland are one of Ireland’s largest philanthropic organisations to recognise and celebrate extraordinary leadership and generosity in the area of philanthropy.

Previous winners of the annual philanthropy awards, which began in 2007, include JP McManus, Brendan O’ Carroll, Feargal Quinn and Maurice Healy.

A Dubliner was crowned Local Philanthropist of the Year, with Malahide native Adrienne Stack deservedly the proud recipient of that award.

Informed by her own family’s experience, Adrienne set up Hugh’s House in memory of her son Hugh

and in support of other families with very sick children; providing a ‘home from home’ for them in the city centre while their children are in hospital.

Hugh’s House provides accommodation 365 days a year to the families of children who are long-term in-patients of Temple Street, Holles Street, the Coombe and Rotunda Hospitals.

She has given significant personal and financial resources to the project.

Speaking about the 2020 awards, Tina Roche, chief executive, The Community Foundation for Ireland, said society should not underestimate the positive role philanthropists play in raising awareness of the value and impact of strategic giving.

“Now in its 12th year, The Community Foundation for Ireland’s Philanthropist of the Year Awards recognises extraordinary leadership in philanthropy,” she said.

“Whilst acknowledging that many people who give back prefer to do so in a low profile and anonymous way, we see the need for positive role models to create a ripple effect of generosity throughout Ireland.”

Pictured are Liam O’Brien, Director of Strategy and External Affairs at Vodafone Ireland with Stephen Vernon who was named The Community Foundation for Ireland National Philanthropist of the Year, with Adrienne Stack, Local Philanthropist of the Year. Picture: Jason Clarke

16 DUBLIN GAZETTE 13 February 2020

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

QUIRKY MATTERS

DUBLIN 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

Denim Day for Dementia C O N TA C T S Managing Director: Michael McGovern mmcgovern@dublingazette.com Commercial Director: Liz Ferris lferris@dublingazette.com Group Editor: Cóilín Duffy cduffy@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.

FITNESS and fashion enthusiast Niamh Cullen, TV Presenter, Reporter and latest ASI Ambassador, Sinead Kennedy, Nurse/ Fashion and travel blogger, Terrie McEvoy want members of the public to rally behind The Alzheimer Society of Ireland’s annual Denim Day for Dementia fundraising campaign on Friday, March 6 to raise funds for vital dementia supports and services.

Denim Day for Dementia campaign is asking everyone from around Ireland to don their denims – to crèche, school or to their place of work – on March 6 and donate just €2 to support the 55,000 people living with dementia and their carers.

To get involved, members of the public are being urged to order their Denim Day for Dementia pack by registering online at www.alzheimer.ie. Picture: Sasko Lazarov/PhotocallIreland

Bid for girlfriend for Tourist board publish Irish soil may hold moon trip scrapped rant mistakenly cure to superbugs JAPANESE fashion billionaire Yusaku Maezawa has pulled out of a TV show where he was looking for a girlfriend for a voyage around the moon.

The 44-year-old recently announced he was seeking single females over 20 willing to become his girlfriend (and join him on Elon Musk’s SpaceX trip) for a documentary to be aired on streaming service AbemaTV. Almost 28,000 people applied but now Maezawa has decided to pull the plug on the TV show saying he has “mixed feelings” about participating.

Apologizing to the applicants and AbemaTV staff in posts on Twitter, he said he is “extremely remorseful” about the decision to pull out.

Maezawa is the founder and former CEO of online fashion retailer Zozo (which he sold last year) and is known for launching big plans which sometimes don’t work out exactly how he expected!

WHEN Brazil’s national tourist agency wants to market Rio de Janeiro they usually focus on the city’s incredible beaches, samba music and exciting night life. A very embarrassing social media mistake this week however from the Brazilian Tourist Board showed the bad side of the city.

Embratur accidentally shared a critical Instagram post from a tourist who had a nightmare time in Rio. “I just spent 3 days in Rio with my family, and in those 3 days my family and I were robbed and my 9-year-old sister witnessed a violent robbery,” Instagram user “withlai” wrote in an Instagram Stories post.

“I can’t recommend a visit to a city where I felt afraid of even leaving the apartment.”

Embratur deleted the post and said in a statement that “sharing (the post) was a mistake.”

A STUDY carried out by Swansea University Medical School found that certain Irish soil many contain a cure of four of the most commonly found superbugs.

Soil taken from the Sacred Heart Church in Enniskillen was found to contain a bacteria strain that can halt the growth of MRSA and three other superbugs that are regularly found in Irish hospitals.

Professor Paul Dyson of Swansea University Medical School said: “Our discovery is an important step forward in the fight against antibiotic resistance.

“Our results show that folklore and traditional medicines are worth investigating in the search for new antibiotics.

“Scientists, historians and archaeologists can all have something to contribute to this task.”

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 Kelsey, a beautiful four-year-old dog that can be quite shy at first, but has the sweetest nature once she gets to know you.

She would love a family that will be willing to come up here to the centre a few times and build up a bond with her – once that’s done, you will have a friend for life.

Kelsey would love a family where there is another confident dog to help her settle in, and a nice garden to play

in and relax with her doggie pal.

Kelsey is such a cuddly and affectionate dog that will make a wonderful addition to the right family.

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

kelsey

13 February 2020 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17

WELL WORTH A LISTEN

DUBLIN ENTERTAINMENT

Cry Monster Cry’s tides of inspiration lead them all the way to the Swiss Alps FOLLOWING the acclaimed release of their sophomore album, Tides, Cry Monster Cry are riding a current.

The two Sutton brothers, Jamie and Richie Martin, are fresh from a tour of Germany, and awaiting the release of a new documentary that features their adventures playing their music up a mountain in the Swiss Alps. Music has taken life to an interesting place.

I caught up with Jamie, an English-major who converts his studies into carefully constructed lyrics, fresh from what’s been an exhausting tour and a special time on the continent.

“I think Irish music is a bit exotic over there,” he laughed. “We find ourselves selling out places that we’ve never been.

“People see that we’re playing and, in real German fashion, they’ll go to YouTube, do some research into us and if they like it, they go and buy tickets.

It’s great. I think that’s something that’s fading in Ireland.”

What music fans can uncover when they do such research is delicate and subtle, and in the case of Tides, a deeply emo-

 JAMES HENDICOTT

tional piece of work that’s mostly quite slow-paced and poetic, but bursts into wall-of-sound angst in late track, The Last Dance.

“I’ve been trying really hard to be in the moment when I perform, and I’ve found when you do that, when you really put everything in, you feel it coming back to you,” Jamie said of the tour.

“It’s emotionally draining, but I think it makes for an honest performance. I really wanted to approach it in that way, to see if there was any difference in the reaction. I thought there was.”

Tides, as an album title, is a reference to the flow of the brother’s lives: sometimes turbulent and sometimes smooth and calm, a reflection of something, really.

A touch ironically, it’s taken them to the mountains.

“We went on a trip to the Swiss Alps and there’s a 30 minute documentary of it waiting to be released,” Jamie said.

Cry Monster Cry – brothers Richie and Jamie Martin

“It’s about the climb and the gig, but it’s more about this guy called Rene Reusser, who brings musicians over there. He’s incredible – a complete music fan.

“He runs a carpentry school, but the documentary is about telling this guy’s story, why he’s so passionate about music and craft, and the lengths people go to so that they feel they’ve done something a bit different. It should be out in about two weeks.

“We’ve been lucky.

We’ve always loved taking on weird stuff, like a gig in the Alps, or living room concerts in Germany.

“It’s just what keeps up amused and entertained.

Hopefully, the documentary will get a good reaction.

“It’s called, When The Snow Calls I’ll Be Gone, which is the English title of an old Swiss folk song.”

Back within the band, things are coming to a peak, too, with the brothers having had their time “living” ahead of the release of the second record.

They’re on a songwriting high, and enjoying the moment.

“What I really love about music is storytell-

ing,” Jamie said. “I like to share a bit of myself, like reading a diary on a stage.

It’s a great way to make something collective.

“It’s had a huge, huge impact on me that I can chart right back to my childhood. Reading, for me, is like going to the gym

for storytelling. I have to stay on top of it.”

Cry Monster Cry play the Pepper Canister Church, Dublin on March

27, with tickets priced at €23.

The show concludes a 13-date Irish tour spanning February and March.

18 DUBLIN GAZETTE 13 February 2020

Delight in digital

Get in touch with YOUR local paper on our newly improved website www.dublingazette.com, Facebook and Twitter

DublinGazette Wherever you are, we’ve got you covered

For all digital enquiries contact JPMontgomery@dublingazette.com

13 February 2020 DUBLIN GAZETTE 19

DUBLIN STYLE

ROSE-MANTIC GIFTS COMMERCIAL CONTENT

THOMAS SABO Sterling silver and rose gold double chain necklace €149

Trust Trim Castle Hotel with your wedding WITH Valentine’s Day tomorrow, February 14, inevitably seeing ‘the big question’ getting popped, congratulations to any reader who gets asked ‘the big one’!

And, if thoughts of weddings – particularly your own – are on your mind, or about to be, why not consider Trim Castle Hotel for your special day?

Trim Castle Hotel is a historic landmark wedding location, situated in the ancient walled town of Trim.

The hotel offers a choice of three glorious celebration suites overlooking the medieval walls of Trim Castle, located amidst the rolling hills of Meath’s oldest natural landscape.

Guests can witness the 12th Century castle ruins transformed by a kaleidoscope of projected lights as the sun sets, with the memorable panorama matched by the hotel’s own warm hospitality and exceptional service.

And, once Valentine’s Day is behind us all, the hotel is looking to the future needs of couples with its upcoming Wedding Fair on Sunday, February 23, from 2.30-5pm.

The hotel’s refurbished celebration suites will be dressed to impress on the day, while the hotel’s wedding team will be on hand to share their experiences and help guide wedding plans, along with a number of recommended wedding suppliers.

And, for those unable to attend the wedding fair and who wish to view the hotel before the fair, you can even contact the hotel directly to arrange a private viewing.

For further information, you can contact the wedding team at 046 948 3000, email info@trimcastlehotel.com, or see www.trimcastleweddings.com orwww.trimcastlehotel.com.

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THOMAS SABO Sterling silver gold together disc ear studs €179

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THOMAS SABO Sterling silver gold together bracelet €179 HARVEY NORMAN Dyson supersonic hairdryer €399

LINDT Strawberries and Cream 200g chocolates

HARVEY NORMAN JBL bluetooth speaker €119

DR BRONNER Lavender organic sugar soap

HARVEY NORMAN Beats solo violet €199

BUTLERS Indulgent chocolates heart box €16

lovely gifts for the 14th

EMINENCE Chocolate Mousse Hydration Masque €58 OH L’AMOUR ... It’s that time of year again

the way home or – even worse – gifting

– a time to express your love, affection

some new socks or a new iron!

and appreciation of your ‘other half’ tomorrow, St Valentine’s Day. And, while it’s certainly true that “it’s

Instead, if you’re stuck for some lastminute ideas, why not try any of these great Valentine’s gift ideas?

the thought that counts”, we’d hope that

They’re sure to put a smile on the face

you can do better than grabbing a bunch

of your loved one. So share the love, and

of wilting flowers at a petrol station on

give a great gift tomorrow...

20 DUBLIN GAZETTE 13 February 2020

DUBLIN FOOD & DRINK

A GUIDE TO TEMPTING FARE

Refurbished Milano branch is reopened

PIZZERIA Milano has re-opened the doors at its Longboat Quay, Grand Canal branch.

Situated at the basin of Grand Canal, Milano has re-opened with a complete interior refurbishment.

Kathy Limbeck, manager of the restaurant, said: “Our refurbished pizzeria – which showcases the kitchen at its heart – is designed to allow our customers watch our talented pizzaiolos freshly handmake their pizza to order.”

The opening of the branch comes 24 years after Milano set up shop in Ireland.

Grace Binchy, Bord Bia consumer insight specialist: “When it comes to evening meals, this comprehensive study captures a clear intent to make healthy and socially responsible food choices”

Food for thought in new study of our eating habits GARY IBBOTSON

BORD Bia, the Irish food board, has released the results of an in-depth national study into the evening meal consumption habits of the people of Ireland.

Carried out in partnership with Red C Research, the study was designed to better understand the changing dynamics of people’s evening mealtime habits.

The study involved a nationally representative online survey of more than 1,000 Irish consumers who charted their evening eating habits, resulting in a sample of 5,925 adult and 1,841 child evening meals collected over seven consecutive days.

The research captures consumer intentions to live more healthily and sustainably versus their daily choices when it comes to evening meals.

According to the poll, more than 80% of people put a high level of importance on eating a balanced diet, with four in 10 adults saying that their

evening meal choice is based on what foods impact their physical and mental health.

Ethical considerations are also influencing consumer behaviour, as almost three in 10 people feel making choices that are more positive for the environment has a great deal of influence on evening meals.

Commenting on the growing influence of health and wellness trends on dietary choices, Grace Binchy, Bord Bia consumer insight specialist, said: “When it comes to evening meals, this comprehensive study captures a clear intent to make healthy and socially responsible food choices, and people believe they are regularly doing so.

“However, as a growing ‘time poor’ nation, life gets in the way.

“There is a tendency for people to remember the choices they make as being better than they were, and their original intention is not always reflected in their actions.”

Key findings of the study: • The classic ‘meat and two veg’ meal staple is the number-one evening meal type eaten by adults in 2019, accounting for 11% of all adult evening meals across the seven days.

Chicken dishes and pasta with sauce meals, such as spaghetti bolognese, were in second and third place, at 10%.

• Pasta with sauce meals, such as spaghetti bolognese, was the number-one meal type eaten by children, accounting for 14% of all evening meals.

• 29% of all adult meals include red meat, although chicken follows closely behind at 21%.

• The presence of fish within all meals is at 7%, increasing to 11% on Fridays.

• Dairy is a key part of evening meals among Irish consumers, with 17% of all meals containing cheese.

Top 10 adult meal types: 1. Meat and two vegetables 2. Chicken dish (for example, roast chicken) 3. Pasta with sauce (for example, spaghetti bolognese)

4. Italian foods (for example, pizza and lasagne) 5. Diner style favourites (for example, burger or steak and chips) 6. Fish dish (for example, fish bake or fish and chips) 7. Light meal (for example, toasted sandwich or beans on toast) 8. Chinese/Oriental meal 9. Stew or casserole 10. Indian dish (for example, chicken tikka marsala, korma, curry) Top 10 children’s meal types:: 1. Pasta with sauce (for example, spaghetti bolognaise) 2. Chicken dish (for example, roast chicken) 3. Meat and two vegetables 4. Italian foods (for example, pizza and lasagne) 5. Diner-style favourites (for example, burger or steak and chips) 6. Stew or casserole 7. Fish dish (for example, a fish bake or fish and chips) 8. Chinese/oriental meal 9. Indian dish (for example, chicken tikka marsala, korma, curry) 10. Light meal (for example, toasted sandwich or beans on toast)

Tag along to Dublin’s very first Taco Battle FOOD festival organisers Eatyard has announced a string of events for early 2020, including a battle between Dublin’s finest taco makers.

Taco Battle – Dublin’s inaugural taco cook-off – will take place later this month on Saturday, February 22, in Jam Park.

Hosted by taco super fan Marcus O’Laoire, attendees will try tacos from La Cocina Cuevas, The Taco Truck, Fuppin Delish, Orale, Eatery Park and Tacos Don

Ron, and vote for their favourite.

Tickets are €40 per person and entry will get you six tacos, one drink token and the responsibility to decide who has perfected the Top Taco.

On the day, there will also be other tacoinspired events such as eating contests, sombrero throwing, pinata competitions, a limbo and Mexican bean race.

This is a child-friendly event with children up to the age of 12 allowed free entry.

Meat firm launches same-day delivery

THE family-owned Dublin Meat Company has announced a same-day delivery option for its range of health lunch and snack options.

The range of Fit Foods include soups such as potato and leek, as well as tomato and basil, and protein pots such as low-calorie chicken tikka and cajun chicken with a BBQ dip.

Dublin Meat Company also offers fully proportioned meals which include wholewheat penne bolognese, Thai red chicken curry with brown rice, a turkey burrito bowl with brown rice, and many more.

The company has also announced new vending machines which will be distributed around the county in offices, factories and hospitals.

The meals are microwaveable in four minutes, made from fresh ingredients each day, and the vending machines are freshly restocked each day.

13 February 2020 DUBLIN GAZETTE 21

TAKE A BREAK, AT HOME OR AWAY

DUBLIN TRAVEL

Coronavirus makes its impact felt in travel industries around the world

The River Lee offers a very stylish base from which to explore Cork

Cork getaway will be a love-Lee trip unexpectedly calm and beautiful oasis in the bustling city NOW that the centre. lengthening eveAs part of The nings are putting River Lee’s Slice a spring in our of the City packstep, why not age, guests enjoy hit the road for a an overnight stay staycation by the along with a pribanks of the love- The collaboration with Nano Nagle Place vate tour of Nano (above) offers a very authentic experience ly Lee, in Cork?

Nagle Place with In fact, the picexclusive access to turesque waterway offers getaway, complete with a buildings not open to the a perfect riverside setting behind the scenes private general public. for the hotel of the same tour of one of Cork’s most After a day exploring, name – The River Lee – beloved historic settings. return to the hotel and which has been attracting Previously the buildings enjoy complimentary appreciative guests to its of the South Presentation access to the on-site NRG comfy setting for a long Convent before it closed fitness centre and swimtime, drawn to a relaxing its doors in 2006, Nano ming pool, or relax in the stay in the Rebel county.

Nagle Place has been lov- sophisticated surroundAlready a welcome des- ingly refurbished to house ings of The River Club over tination all year round, the a fascinating heritage a glass of something local luxurious Cork hotel has centre, cafe, gardens and and delicious. recently collaborated with shop, where visitors can Complete with an overNano Nagle Place to cre- experience the story of life night stay for two adults, a ate an exclusive one-night in 18th Century Cork in an private tour of Nano Nagle SHANE DILLON

Travel Editor

Place and breakfast in The Mirror Room the following morning, Slice of the City at The River Lee is available from €239, and offers a charming cultural break in the country’s second city.

The cultural and cosy stay is just part of the reason to hit down the road to Cork, of course, thanks to a city that has so much to offer, it’s no wonder many Corkonians never leave.

The city offers a fine range of attractions and things to see and do, coupled with many superb restaurants and wining and dining options that have firmly put Cork on the map in recent decades.

For further information or to make a booking, call 021 493 7772, or see https://www.doylecollection.com/hotels/theriver-lee-hotel.

Millennials reveal their holiday must-have points A NEW survey from our friends next door on the travel interests of 2,000 young British millennials is likely to be strongly mirrored by their Irish peers.

While an Irish study would undoubtedly be a tad different – such as a listing for ‘Being able to watch Dublin V Mayo in the All Ireland’ – the research by Virgin Holidays is sure to be very close to the Irish millennial’s holiday wishlist must-haves, as follows ...

40% – A white sandy beach 34% – Balcony with a sea view 33% – Crystal clear waters 33% – The perfect sunset 31% – Palm trees 29% – Local wildlife 28% – Beautiful picture chances 26% – Iconic landmarks 25% – Lakes 25% – A vibrant local culture 24% – An infinity pool or jacuzzi/ hot tub 24% – Mountains

22% – Historic ruins 22% – A spa 21% – Interesting architecture 19% – A coral reef 18% – Glamorous bars 18% – Local delicacies 16% – Bustling street markets 16% – Safari 14% – A clifftop 13% – Beautiful people 13% – Temples 12% – A hammock 11% – Designer shops/boutiques

WHILE ‘Wuhan Flu’ continues to cause alarm all around the world, particularly in the Asia Basin countries, tourism, travel and holiday firms and organisations are monitoring the situation closely.

Understandably, Airbnb has found itself at the front line in the global grasp of the dreadful coronavirus, with a significant amount of properties in the countries that Airbnb operates in.

With Irish holidaymakers also facing having to amend or even cancel travel plans to a range of countries, an Airbnb statement on its stance is likely to be of great interest.

An official Airbnb media statement reads: “Airbnb is closely monitoring official news and guidance about the novel coronavirus outbreak in order to support our community of hosts, guests and employees in China and around the world — we are prioritising their safety and wellbeing.

“In accordance with guidance and recommendations from the World

Health Organisation, the Chinese government, and other local and health authorities, we have activated our extenuating circumstances policy to offer impacted hosts and guests the option of a cancellation of their reservations without charges.

“As the situation evolves, we will be continuously evaluating and updating this policy, in line with official guidance. Airbnb is also working to support authorities who are responding to this global health emergency.”

For those facing changes to travel plans in one of a number of countries currently facing coronavirus illness – including but not limited to China, Thailand, Singapore, South Korea, Japan – Airbnb has an ‘extenuating circumstances policy for the novel coronavirus outbreak’, which may facilitate cancellation without charge of any planned trip in an affected country.

You should be able to find this policy, or contact Airbnb directly, though its app or website.

22 DUBLIN GAZETTE 13 February 2020

DUBLIN MOTORS

WHAT’S NEW IN THE WORLD OF TRANSPORT

New Ranger Raptor commands respect

Ford are old hands at delivering impressive pick-ups – and the Ranger Raptor is another singular vehicle, thanks to power and presence alone

DECLAN GLYNN

FORD has launched the new Ranger Raptor – the toughest and most high-performing version ever of Europe’s bestselling pick-up.

The new Ranger Raptor is powered by a Biturbo version of Ford’s 2.0 litre EcoBlue diesel engine that delivers 213 PS and 500 Nm of torque, and is mated to Ford’s new 10-speed automatic gearbox.

The commanding presence delivered by the ultimate Ranger’s imposing dimensions and extreme styling is supported by a unique Ford Performance chassis, optimised for highspeed off-road driving and go-anywhere capability.

Built to withstand

high-impact off-road eve n t s, t h e R a n g e r Raptor’s unique, superstrong reinforced chassis frame uses highs t re n g t h , l o w- a l l oy steels to endure the punishment delivered by offroad racing.

All-terrain BF Goodrich 285/70 R17 tyres have been specially developed for the Ranger Raptor, and really contribute greatly to the Raptor’s go-anywhere ability.

Ford Performance DNA is present throughout the interior, which delivers quality craftsmanship, harmonious colours and durable materials for driving scenarios from the high street to high altitude.

The premium leather and suede bolstered s e a t s a re s p e c i a l l y

FACT BOX

1) Imposing dimensions 2) Terrific on and off-road 3) Impressive power and torque 4) Six driving modes 5) On sale now designed for enhanced grip and off-road highspeed support, with a dual-firmness cushion for ultimate comfort.

My test vehicle was a new Ranger Raptor, which was finished in striking Ford Performance Blue metallic paintwork for maximum visual impact.

Drivers can select from six Terrain Management System modes to tackle a wide range of terrain and driving scenarios, including Normal, Sport, Grass/ Gravel/Snow, Mud/Sand,

Rock, and Baja mode.

While the first five modes are self explanatory, the Baja mode tunes responses for high-speed off-road performance, just like drivers need in the famous Baja desert rally.

The one thing that really grabs attention with the Ranger Raptor is its sheer size.

Park a Raptor on the street and it will dwarf a standard Ranger by a considerable amount, as it is the Raptor’s bodywork that really makes

it stand out from the crowd.

The Raptor’s standard BiTurbo 2.0-litre EcoBlue engine allows for swift acceleration for this type of off-roader, with the 0-100kmph sprint achievable in just 10 seconds, while fuel economy of up to 31.7mpg is possible on a combined driving cycle.

The Ford Ranger Raptor has carved itself a unique place in the market simply because it’s like no other pick-up currently on sale.

The engineering modifications have turned the already likeable Ranger into a seriously impressive vehicle – both on and off-road.

The Ranger Raptor is priced at €63,950 (exdelivery), and is on sale now.

Electric Elves plug into training demand ELVES, the End-of-Life Vehicle compliance scheme www.elves.ie hosted a training programme for Authorised Treatment Facilities (Permitted scrapyards) in the safe handling of end-of-life hybrid, electric and mild hybrid vehicles at Plunket College for Further Education in Whitehall recently. The Electric ELVES programme is the first classroom based course of its kind in Ireland and is free of charge to attendees.

As the compliance scheme for the End-of-Life Vehicle sector, ELVES saw the need to develop the Electric ELVES programme in response to the increasing popularity of electric and hybrid cars, from full electric vehicles to mild-hybrids. The course content addresses new health and safety risks which vehicle dismantlers face in handling electric and hybrid vehicles, as well as helping to provide solutions to the challenging environmental reuse, recycling and recovery targets set out in End-of-Life Vehicle Regulations.

The Electric ELVES training programme was launched in September 2019 and is being facilitated

by ELVES with the support of the IMVRA. The training programme is open to all ATFs in Ireland, not just those in the ELVES ATF Network.

Programme availability will develop nationwide as awareness of and demand for the course dictates.

Allowing all Irish ATFs to access the training programme will expand critical knowledge and expertise across the country, supporting all ATFs in developing competence in the handling of this new technology.

The course is provided free of charge to ATFs. Interested ATFs should contact ELVES www.elves.ie to register their interest for future training days.

The course is taught by leading industry professionals Salvage Wire. Salvage Wire recently won Best Automotive Recycling Consultancy 2019 in the UK Build Recycling and Waste Management Awards for achievements and innovations made within the industry. Salvage Wire also recently won the US Automotive Recyclers Association, 2019 President’s Award.

Plunket College of Further Education, Whitehall, Dublin, is part of the City of Dublin Education and Training Board, CDETB. The college offers the QQI Level 5 Pre Apprenticeship - Motor Vehicle Maintenance and Motor Technology course which is supported and funded by SOLAS. The new motor vehicle workshop facility at the college is ideally suited for the practical element of the Electric ELVES training programme.

ELVES Environmental Compliance Manager Elena Wrelton said, “This Electric ELVES course is of immense value to ATFs. ELVES is providing this second series of training workshops in response to significant industry demand. When the course launched in September, ELVES had a huge number of new requests for training from vehicle recyclers.

It is of critical importance that those working in the industry are equipped with the resources available to be fully confident and competent in dealing with the correct reuse and recycling of all types of vehicles.”

13 February 2020 DUBLIN GAZETTE 23

CHALLENGE YOUR BRAIN...JUST FOR FUN!

CODEWORDS

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DUBLIN 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.

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BASKETBALL P30

THE BEST IN DUBLIN

SPORT

BIG PROSPECT: SOCCER: SHAMROCK Rovers man-

ager Stephen Bradley says fans will see the best of Neil Farrugia this season following an injury-interrupted spell to date.

The Ireland Under-21 winger signed for the Hoops from UCD, alongside midfielder Gary O’Neill, midway through last season after impressing for the Students.



GAZETTE

LADIES FOOTBALL P31

PAGE 28

LET DUBLIN GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS INFORM YOU OF THE HIGHLIGHTS AND SCORES OF YOUR FAVOURITE TEAMS BOXING | HARRINGTON LIVING IN THE MOMENT FOR BIG 2020

Kellie Harrington offers coaching advice at UCD this week. Picture: Michael Chester

Kellie’s short term focus  STEPHEN FINDLATER

sport@dublingazette.com

WHILE the first set of Olympic boxing qualifiers are just over a month away, you might expect the ins and outs of the tournament to be all-consuming for Kellie Harrington.

But the Dubliner admits she doesn’t “have a clue” about the format and is not the least bit concerned for the time being.

“I don’t even look at who is in my weight or how the qualifier works,” she told Dublin Gazette at the National Dairy Council’s Everything Starts with Milk campaign.

“The coaches will just tell me who is up next and that’s it. I am not looking at anything else or who is on the same side of the draw as me, who is seeded one or two. I don’t care.

“When you start doing that, your focus is shifted from what is in front of you. I focus literally on what is on in that moment. There’s no point worrying about it now because it wastes all your energy. That’s energy I need to be putting into my training sessions and my sleeping. I am not saying the Olym-

pics isn’t the [big] thing but that is how I break it down.”

For the record, her first chance for the 2018 lightweight champion to qualify for Tokyo is in mid-March in London where six places are on offer.

Failing that, another three or four spots will be on the line at the final qualifier in Paris in May. Harrington had spent the back end of 2019 out of action with a hand injury but she hails an increase in her dairy intake as key to her recovery.

Any worries it would linger into this year were appeased with her silver medal at the Standja multi-nations tournament in Sofia, Bulgaria.

“It was just good to get away and test myself and my hand. It was a multi nation tournament, a really high standard which has been going on 71 years so I was delighted to box in it!

“Mainly, though, it was about sussing out my hand, seeing what it was like in a tournament, throwing it out at all kinds of angles and landing it in different ways.”

The hand came through with no ill effects, giving her confidence going into a four-week training block before

she, eventually, zones in on the specifics of the Olympic qualifiers.

And she hopes she can give her community another reason to celebrate.

“Growing up in the innercity is fantastic – you get to see all walks of life. There are hidden agendas or mollycoddling. You grow up a lot quicker.

It’s made me the person I am today and also made me want to do well for my

community.

“When I do well – or anyone from the community like Troy Parrott or Wes Hoolahan or Olivia O’Toole – everyone jumps up and gives them the credit they deserve and it lifts the whole place.”

“It’s amazing to see that spirit lifted from one person and giving happiness to so many.”

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

28 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 13 February 2020

CLUB NOTES

ROUND

2 1

LUCAN SARSFIELDS GARDA/WESTMANSTOWN MOSTdone WELL fixtures to the fellJunior by theAwayside la last weekend with the arrival of storm Ciara.

Well done to our facilities group who keep our pitches available despite the inclement weather.

Intermediates and Juniors kick off the league season next Sunday with two home fixtures.

Inters host Ballymun Kickhams at 10.30.AM and Juniors welcome Raheny at 12.00.Midday.

Ladies preseason training continues on Mondays and Wednesdays at 7.30.PM.This years Easter Camp takes place from April 14-17 and is open to all children aged 5-13 years of age.Cost per child is €50 and online registration will be available shortly.

Club membership is now due for all members and can be paid online at https://payments. gardawestmanstowngaels.com.

BALLYBODEN ST ENDA’S WE HAD a huge response to this year’s Football Sevens tournament in memory of Dermot Digger Manly which was held on Saturday. Well done to all those involved.

Club membership for 2020 is now due.

Friday 28th of February Gaelic 4 Mothers and Others are having a table quiz in the club at 8.30pm

all welcome.

Don’t forget to mark Buffet Breakfast Morning in your diaries on Saturday 29th of February from 8.30am -12.30pm in the club for our Senior Hurlers.

There was no winner of the jackpot of €3,500.

Winning numbers were 20, 11, 25, 10.

Next lotto jackpot is €4,000.

ROUND TOWER, CLONDALKIN OUR adult football teams are back in competitive action this weekend! Our Senior Footballers commence their league 2 campaign against St Sylvesters at home in Monastery Road Sunday morning at 10.30am. Our Junior 1 team play Crumlin away at 12 noon, third team are away to Ballyboughal at 3pm and at same time the AFL11 team will play Ballyboden in the Community Centre. We encourage folk to get out and support our teams.

Next Sunday we’re hosting a Valentines Afternoon Tea Dance. Plenty of dancing and fun to be had indefeat the club.

FOLLOWING to €5 cover charge and the musicO from Bill Joyce commences 4pm, with light Naomh refreshments served.

Membership for the year 2020 is now due. We ask players, mentors and supporters to ensure they are Members. If required, Membership can be paid in instalments via our website.

Congratulations to Adam Byrne who was the winner of our Minor Footballer and Hurlers fundraising draw to win two tickets for the Ireland Wales Six Nations International. Thanks to all for supporting the draw.

Our Under 9 Boys Footballers & Hurlers have a great fundraising draw in place. Up for grabs is a signed jersey from the five-in-a-row winning Dublin Footballers. The jersey will be framed. And also on offer are two Premium tickets for the Football League Final, to be played in Croke Park 29th March. Tickets are priced at €5 and are available within the club.

Round Tower Lotto 3rd February 2020. Jackpot: €10,000. Numbers drawn: 10,20,23,28 bonus ball 2. No overall winner and one bonus ball winner: Declan Sheerin.

ROUND TOWER, CLONDALKIN

SOCCER: SHAMROCK ROVERS LOOKING TO LEARN LESSONS OF

Bradley says Hoops to see the best of Farrugia this term

LEAGUE OF IRELAND  DAVE DONNELLY

sport@dublingazette.com

SHAMROCK Rovers manager Stephen Bradley says fans will see the best of Neil Farrugia this season following an injury-interrupted spell to date.

The Ireland Under-21 winger signed for the Hoops from UCD, alongside midfielder Gary O’Neill, midway through last season after impressing for the Students.

Though he played a part as a substitute in Rovers’ FAI Cup final win over Dundalk, the 20-year-old Blackrock native was always being looked at for a 2020 breakthrough.

The Hoops kick off their league campaign against fierce rivals Bohemians on Saturday afternoon in front of a sell-out crowd at Dalymount Park.

“When we got him, we knew the injury was serious,” Bradley said.

“We knew we’d have to take our time with him.

We could have rushed him back sooner last year but

we felt the type of injury it was and the type of player he is, it wasn’t worth the risk.

“We were always looking at him for this year. He’s come back for pre-season with no issues and hasn’t missed a minute’s training.

We’ll see Neil at the best this year.”

Though a winger by trade, Farrugia may see gametime in the left wingback slot this season as Sean Kavanagh looks set to miss the first two months of the season with a knee injury.

Former Northern Ireland international Danny Lafferty is a more than able deputy in the same position and Bradley will look to make use of his starstudded squad.

The Jobstown man has made just two judicious additions to his squad as they look to wrest back to the league title for the first time in a decade.

Ireland under-21 defender Liam Scales has arrived from UCD and full-back Rhys Marshall joined for a fee after impression with

Glenavon over the past number of seasons.

And Bradley insists it has always been quality over quantity for the Hoops, who finished 11 points behind Dundalk last season after leading for much of the first half of the season.

“Yeah, we did Liam and Rhys really early and we’re happy with that. I feel the squad is really strong from last year. I think we’ve added really well, it’s not

numbers, we’re not looking to add numbers, it’s quality. We felt that once we’d them two, it was a case of waiting until the window closed.

“We were speaking to a few players abroad. They obviously have options and you have to wait and see where it lies when the window closes. Now that’s happened, we get to work.”

The FAI Cup win has further underlined the squad’s potential but Bradley

insists it’s in the past now and all their focus is on the league kick-off.

“You have to win big games, big competitions to help you get over the line.

I think it was very important we did that.

“I think we also have to understand that it’s gone.

It was in November – it’s done, forget about it. What we learnt that day, what we got out of that day, was understanding how to do it in big games.”

Esker’s Wells in Irish U-17s

Shamrock Rovers’ Adam Wells

FORMER Esker Celtic player Adam Wells has been named in the Republic of Ireland Under-17 panel for their upcoming double-header against Switzerland in Valencia.

He is among five Shamrock Rovers’ players to get the nod in Colin O’Brien’s panel alongside Darragh Reilly, Oisin Hand, Jamie Doyle and striker Sinclair Armstrong.

Speaking about the squad selection O’Brien said: “It’s a week where we have to concentrate on ourselves and get back into good habits and prepare for the elite round [of Euro qualifiers].

“We had a couple of days with some of the

home-based players and a lot of them are in preseason at the moment so we’re having to put a plan in place that works with those players.

“They’ve been back with their clubs for a couple of weeks and once we finish with the players on Friday we’ll be six weeks out from competition time.

“Switzerland have also qualified for the Elite Round so they will give us a really good test – which we need. Our players will know that everything will go up a level as we face teams who have gone through from the first qualifying round.”

13 February 2020 WEST  DUBLIN GAZETTE 29

MEMORABLE 2019

SOCCER: TERENURE CLUB SEVEN POINTS OFF TOP SPOT

VEC unable to break Castle’s defences UCFL DIVISION 2 Castle Celtic VEC  JOHN MOONEY sport@dublingazette.com

Neil Farrugia following his signing for Shamrock Rovers last summer.

Picture: George Kelly

SPRINT QUEENS

Adeleke and Neville’s growing 60m rivalry

TALLAGHT AC’s Rhasidat Adeleke, right, ran a personal best of 7.36 to win the first 60m series race at the AAI Games at the Sport Ireland National Indoor Arena, holding off Ciara Neville (left) in 7.42.

The roles were reversed in race two with Neville winning in 7.37 to Adeleke’s 7.44, marking it out as a cracking rivalry as one of the highlights of the ongoing competition.

Picture: Eoin Noonan/Sportsfile

0 0

A DRAW was no good for either Castle Celtic or VEC FC when the two met on a windswept Stanaway Park on Saturday afternoon and ended up drawing 0-0.

This UCFL Division 2 encounter was entertaining enough considering the conditions, but good football was hard to come by as the wind dominated the game from start to finish.

There were flashes of good play and, on another day, we might have seen an goal or two, but as the wind swept across the field, shots on target were few and far between.

The more clear-cut efforts came in the second half and it was the visitors who were cursing their luck as, on two occasions in the space of four minutes, Adam Flynn had the chances to put this game to bed.

On 65 minutes, after a good passage of play involving Neil Murtagh, Karl Reck and Gerry Curran, Flynn found himself 10 yards from goal with only Conor Seery to beat, but his effort was brilliantly saved with defender Gavin Ward putting the loose ball out for a corner just to be on the safe side.

Four minutes later and Flynn found himself in almost the same position with only Seery to beat but he blasted wide of the mark on this occasion.

It took the wind out of their sails for a bit and they probably felt that it wasn’t going to be their day after those two efforts went.

The home side had their own near misses, most notably the one from substitute, and acting player manager on the day, Dan Killeen when he latched onto a long Seery kick out and smashed a shot off the crossbar.

There were other chances but mainly half ones and neither keeper was really tested in

Castle Celtic, above, and VEC, below, prior to their UCFL Division 2 clash

the conditions and in the end a draw was a fair result.

It leaves VEC second in the table but they trail Sandford/St Marys by seven points and they have a game in hand, while Castle will have to be content with their mid-table position.

Castle Celtic: Conor Seery, Gavin Ward, Ross Kina-

han, Dermot Groarke, John Thompson, Adam Collins, Mick Thompson, Cosmin Huhulea, Liam McMahon, Glen Callaghan, Florin Aposto, Mark Healy, Darah McCreery, Joey Broderick, Daniel Killeen, Fionn Fitzpatrick.

VEC FC: Brian O’Keefe, Matthew Wallace, Ian Dunne, Russell White, Paul Smith, Neil Murtagh, Gildas Olivier, Richard Burke, Karl Reck, Garry Curran, Adam Flynn, Sean O’Shea, Jack McKnight, Jorge Castillo, Paddy Prizeman.

Mary’s hold off Gonzaga challenge

JUNIOR CUP RUGBY

 sport@dublingazette.com

ST MARY’S College have seen off Gonzaga College 21-15 to seal their place in the draw for the Second Round of the Bank of Ireland Leinster Rugby Schools Junior Cup. After an opening quarter where Mary’s held the initiative and rarely stepped foot in their own half, Noah Johnson barged over from close range, his effort converted by Cillian Jacobs.

That score only prompted Gonzaga and they swiftly replied through

Oscar Parceir, the winger was on the end of a flowing move across the pitch and with their first foray into enemy territory, it was suddenly 7-5. Mary’s had the best of the early parts of the second half with Aaron O’Brien going in underneath a mass of bodies to stretch the lead, Jacobs converting.

By the time Stephen McMahon kicked a penalty for ‘Zaga in the 54th minute, the game had truly come to life and it certainly provided them with a confidence boost.

The all-important score came late on when O’Brien was once

again the catalyst in a strong Mary’s drive, the flanker picking up his second try of the afternoon.

Without that score, Gonzaga captain Paul Wilson’s try immediSt Mary’s celebrate.

Picture: Paul Lundy

ately after would have been more than just a consolation for his team as Mary’s held on for a date with Castleknock in the second round.

30 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 13 February 2020

ROUND

CLUB NOTES

2

ST PAT’S, PALMERSTOWN MEMBERSHIP for 2020 is now due, and should be paid as soon as possible. The easiest way is to pay on on-line at www.stpatricksgaa.ie New members are very welcome.

Our senior footballers are back in action next weekend with a league match away to St Brigid’s on Sunday morning at 10.30am. Our minor hurlers are also due to play at home on Sunday at 11am. Fixture details will be available on the website during the week. Well done to our U12 footballers who played very well in some tough challenge matches at the weekend.

The Easter Camp will be on from 6 – 9 April. The Cúl Camps will be on 6 – 10 July, and 13 – 17 July. Further information will follow.

Operation Transformation is on Thursday evening from the Clubhouse at 7.30 pm. All are welcome.

Training for all teams has now resumed, and matches will commence from next weekend. All teams are looking for new players – adult and juvenile. Fixture details and contact information available on our website.

The numbers in the Lotto draw this week were 6, 9, 28 and 29. There was no jackpot winner. We had four Lucky Dip winners – Ruth Smith, Susan Ward, P McKenna and Thomas O’Reilly.

The jackpot next week will be €9,800. The draw takes place on Sunday night in the Palmerstown House at 10pm. Tickets available online, and from SuperValu, Palmerstown House, and Manor Hair Studios.

THOMAS DAVIS MEMBERSHIP for 2020 is now due, please check the club website or Facebook for online payment options or search Thomas Davis on the Clubforce app.

Both under 16 football squads began their league campaigns with wins over Castleknock and Kilmacud respectively. Our under 12 footballers beat St Jude’s and Fingallians while our under 13s beat St Sylvester’s also in grading league.

The senior football team start their Div 1 league campaign this Sunday with an away tie to Ballymun at 10.30. While the minor hurlers travel to Blunden drive to take on O’Tooles at 11am in Div 2. Best of luck to both teams and managements for the year ahead.

Well done to the Dublin U20 footballers who beat Wicklow at the weekend and in particular to Adam Waddick, Fionn Murray, Stephen O’Byrne Braiden, Conor Guilfoyle and Ciaran Farrelly who are all involved with the team.

Hard luck to Tallaght IT who lost the Fergal Maher final on Sunday, beaten by 1 point.

Our Kids Academy takes place every Sat morning from 10-11am on the Astro pitch. New players welcome. Contact Club GPO Stephen Stewart for further details 0876795720.

Check out our club website for all up to date juvenile training times and team contacts. www. thomasdavisgaa.ie Aideen O’Hara and AJ Halpin were our biggest overall weight losses of the week for OT with 5.5lbs losses and Danielle Rock was the follower of the week, well done to all.

Our food Menu is now served in the upstairs lounge Thurs 4-9pm, Fri 4-9pm, Sat 12.30-9.00pm and Carvery downstairs 12-7pm on Sundays. Open to all the community to enjoy our delicious food.

Lotto Numbers 3,5,12+ 17. Lotto won

by Julie Cummins, next Week’s jackpot is €1,000.

WANDERERS LOTTO: No winner of this weeks jackpot, numbers drawn were 30-32-33. €25 goes to Damien Gallagher, P.J. Smyth, Noel Dykes, Kieron O Flaherty. .

Jackpot next week is €10,000.

As our lotto is now at €10k we have started a background which is sitting currently at €2,000. When the €10k is won our new lotto will start from the background draw. Our Lotto is now online through our Website or Facebook page.

If you are interested in playing for our Adult Men’s teams this season please contact Dave on 0877256754. If you are interested in joining our Ladies team this season please contact Dionne on 0879315556 for more info.

Our Juvenile training is on Saturday mornings and Wed evenings along with the nursery on Saturday mornings, please contact Fergal on 0876213142 for more details, the club is looking for new members at all levels so please reach out as per above if interested.

If you would like a Match Report or Photos submitted to the website or press please contact pro@wanderersgaa.ie. All items for the club notes must be submitted by Sunday evening to pro@wanderersgaa.ie.

BASKETBALL: CLONDALKIN CLUB OFF THE MARK

Young Lions roar to maiden victory SUPER LEAGUE  sport@dublingazette.com

ABBEY Seals Dublin Lions picked up their elusive first ever win in the men’s Super League on Saturday evening, taking a 63-48 point win over Moycullen in Dublin.

A low scoring first half display saw the home side edge a 27-21 first half lead, thanks to brilliant scoring from Finn Hughes, who went on to finish the game with 17 points in a terrific display by the young guard.

Lions’ tails were up as they increased the lead in style with a great third quarter performance that was led by Hughes and good scoring from James Gormley to extend the lead to 43-30.

Moycullen tried to push back in the fourth with Daniel Vila (17 points) but the combination of Hughes and Gormley stopped any momentum for the Galway side.

Speaking afterwards, Abbey Seals Dublin Lions boss Rob White stated: “It’s a pity it didn’t come sooner in the year. It’s great for the lads, we have no professionals anymore as we took the decision to build on experience for next year.

Dublin Lions secured a memorable win over Moycullen. Picture: Bill E Daly

“For young team with an average age of 18 to 19, it’s a massive win.

“We know we are going down… we are going to have fun and enjoy it and take everything into next season as our goal is to be back here.”

E l s e w h e re, M a re e stunned DBS Éanna running out twelve-point winners over the Dubliners in Galway.

The game was neckand-neck in the first half, both teams struggling to gain the upper hand but Maree had the one point

IT IS WHAT IT IS KH Love-in with O’Shea session KING’S HOSPITAL rugby players

enjoyed a masterclass session with Irish rugby 7s star Greg O’Shea - the world’s most followed rugby player on Instagram by virtue of his win on Love Island - at Belfield.

It was part of the National Dairy Council’s “Everything Starts With Milk” campaign.

O’Shea is an ambassador for the campaign along with Kellie Harrington and Irish hockey stars. Picture: Michael Chester

lead at the half, 38-37.

Maree had a terrific third quarter, building a 14 point lead, with Darin Johnson and Orioles Balsells Plaza at the fore. Éanna were up against it in the fourth quarter and tried to rally back with Marko Tomic and Stefan Zecevic but Maree didn’t let up and kept the edge. Maree saw out the 76-64 win as the clock ran down.

A late push from Griffith College Templeogue meanwhile saw them ove rc o m e Co u g h l a n

CandS Neptune on the road, 79-95 on Saturday evening.

Both sides were trading baskets from the start and was close right up until the fourth quarter, with Jason Killen and Lorcan Murphy causing trouble for the Neptune defence, while Nil Sabata and Lehmon Colbert were on form for the Cork outfit.

Templeogue started the fourth quarter with a six point lead and continued to make big scores down the stretch, as they ran out winners in the end.

13 February 2020 WEST  DUBLIN GAZETTE 31

LADIES FOOTBALL: UNBEATEN RECORD COMES TO AN END IN CROKE PARK

FOOTBALL

Dublin’s U-20s pull clear late on in opener

Dublin’s Carla Rowe holds off Cork’s Laura O’Mahony. Picture: Ray McManus

Dublin unable to quell Rebel rising LIDL NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE DIV 1 Cork Dublin  DAIRE WALSH sport@dublingazette.com

0-8 1-4

CARLA Rowe continued her impressive league form but it was not enough to overhaul Cork at Croke Park as the Rebelettes strengthened their grip at the top of the LIDL National Football League Division One. On a rain and wind-swept evening, the ever-dependable Orla Finn kicked five points for the visitors, while Hannah Looney also chipped with 0-2 during an industrious display in very difficult conditions.

Rowe led the way with 1-2 for Dublin but despite enjoying a late flourish, they fell to their first loss of the campaign.

Manager Mick Bohan was left to ponder what might have been as his side lost for the first time this season.

“It’s probably not the result that’s frustrating for us, rather the number of opportunities they had that they just squandered. Very disappointing, really poor execution and an awful lot of the basics of the game just not executed.

That becomes a huge source of frustra-

tion.”

Cork, after dropping some early shots into the hands of Dublin goalkeeper Ciara Trant, took the lead through centre-back Melissa Duggan’s fifth minute point.

While they didn’t always capitalise on the opportunities that fell their way, a brace from the reliable Finn extended the lead for Ephie Fitzgerald’s charges.

Rowe kicked the hosts into gear with a two-point salvo, but Cork subsequently reinforced their authority.

Finn registered 0-13 when the Munster side overcame Dublin in last year’s league semi-final and she split the posts at the end of an intricate attacking move before adding a routine free on 24 minutes to make it 0-5 to 0-2 for Cork at the break.

Maire O’Callaghan and Looney were combining to good effect in midfield, and it was the latter who took the charge when the action resumed.

The Aghada star landed points from play with side of another Finn free to give Cork a firm control of the proceedings.

Dublin, despite struggling to impose their attacking game against a watertight Cork defence, received a lifeline midway in the third quarter when Rowe slotted home a penalty into the bottom

right corner of the net after a foul on her club mate Oonagh Whyte.

Five-time All Star Lyndsey Davey was simultaneously introduced off the bench for her seasonal return as Mick Bohan’s side, who secured their sole league title in 2018, looked set for a big finish to the contest.

And they certainly ramped up the pressure on the league champions in a frenetic finish with Hannah O’Neill and Davey shooting points.

But they were unable to draw level with a free from Rowe in the dying moments drifting wide as Cork held on for victory.

Muireann ni Scanaill closes in on Cork’s Libby Coppinger. Picture: Ray McManus

LUCAN Sarsfields’ Alan Murphy and Mark Lavin, Thomas Davis’s Adam Waddick, Templeogue Synge Street’s Lorcan O’Dell were all named in the starting team as Dublin’s Under-20s got by the challenge of Wicklow in their Leinster football championship tie.

Tom Gray’s side won out by 1-17 to 0-7 at Joule Park in Aughrim on Saturday, setting up a date with Longford next Saturday in Parnell Park in the quarterfinal (2pm).

They did fall behind early on to an Eoin Darcy goal in the third minute and while Dublin lead by three points at half-time, it took a while to fully shake off the hosts’ challenge.

They scored the last six points despite suffering black cards to Pádraig Purcell and Ciaran Archer in the 54th and 55th minute respectively.

Dublin had extended their half-time advantage with points from Archer, Alan Murphy and Purcell on the restart as Wicklow only managed two second half points, both from Matthew Ging.

Dublin led 1-11 to 1-7 with ten minutes, plus six added, to play and they finished strongly with points from Purcell, a fine Luke Swan effort, Kieran McKeon, Rory Dwyer, Swan and sub Ciarán O’Reilly.

Wicklow, backed by the strong wind, made a dream start with an Eoin Darcy goal in the three minute but Dublin replied shortly after with Fearon raising a green flag as Dublin quickly fought back to draw the game level at 1-4 each.

GazetteSPORT FEBRUARY 13-19, 2020

ALL OF YOUR WEST DUBLIN SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31 33-39

ROVERS READY FOR TITLE TILT SOCCER:

Manager Bradley says Hoops could well see the best of rising star Neil Farrugia as League of Ireland season nears.

SEE P28

KELLIE’S FOCUS BOXING:

Kellie Harrington not getting ahead of herself in Olympic year as she looks to do her community proud once again. SEE P27

LIONS ROAR TO FIRST WIN BASKETBALL:

Clondalkin club secure their first ever win in the men’s Super League with outstanding performance against Moycullen. SEE P30

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Testing starts for Boden and Thomas Davis in AFL1  CÓILÍN DUFFY

cduffy@dublingazette.com

SENIOR championship finalists Ballyboden St Enda’s and Thomas Davis both face tricky starts to their AFL Division One campaigns on Sunday morning as they line out against Kilmacud Crokes and Ballymun Kickhams, respectively.

Boden bossed the regular season of the league last year but missed out found the playoffs in deep December a bridge too far with Mun eventually ending on top.

Kilmacud, meanwhile, are a perennial rival for honours, making their contest at Silver Park o n S u n d ay m o r n i n g (10.30am) a fascinating one to the start the year.

Both sides could well be without county stars w i t h B o d e n’s Co l l i e Basquel playing a part for the Dubs against Monaghan last weekend.

And Crokes’ boss Robbie Brennan is looking forward to the tie.

“Obviously they are a fantastic side and we would have the utmost respect for them and what they have done down through the years,” Brennan told the Dublin Gazette. “There’s always a good rivalry between the two clubs, and a healthy rivalry at that.

“They had a fantastic year last year. It could have maybe been a little bit better for them as things turned out.

“You couldn’t get a better test for your first

Ballyboden St Enda’s Conal Keaney in action in the 2019 AFL1 final. Picture: John Kirwan

“You couldn’t get a better test for your first game up in the league than Ballyboden“ game up in the league.

We are trying to put a bit more importance on the league this year than we did last year.

“With that in mind we would be looking at a good performance on Sunday. We are definitely looking forward to getting up and running at the weekend.”

Off the back of their remarkable Dublin championship run last year, Thomas Davis are on the M50 around to Pairc Cice-

am for their first game of 2020 at reigning league champions Ballymun.

It is something that Mun manager Brendan Hackett points to as a key variable in the opening stages of the competition.

“It’s a difficult situation, because obviously with talented players they will get selected by Dublin,” he told Dublin Gazette.

“There’s six of them with Dublin at the

moment, and that causes a difficulty obviously for the club because we don’t see them, and we don’t have them for league, and then we see them for a very short period of time for the Championship.

“That’s a huge challenge, because they are very talented, but you are trying to come back and play with essentially a group of people that you aren’t played with the whole time, and

that’s a difficulty. “ B a l l y m u n a l ways look strong on paper, and are always up at the top of favourites, but as you have seen in the last while Ballymun have only won one Championship since the 1980’s.

“Last year was encouraging, it was a step forward because the remaining players had a good league campaign, and I think that is imperative for the development of the rest of the

players no doubt.

“You prove yourself in the league first, and I think that it’s no accident that most of the teams who have won the Championship in the last few years, always have good league campaigns.”

L u c a n S a r s f i e l d s, meanwhile, open their campaign with a date at Marlay Park against Ballinteer St John’s while St Jude’s are in action against Na Fianna in Glasnevin.