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APR 26 - MAY 2, 2018

SEE P27

Running track upgrade comes to a sudden stop

MARK O’BRIEN THE long-awaited refurbishment of Lucan Harriers’ running track has hit a huge snag after the company carrying out the work went into administration.

The club had received funding through the Sports Capital Grant in 2015 to refurbish the track, which was originally built in 1985.

But last week news emerged that Crawfords – the company carrying out the work – had gone into administration, with work ceasing on the site.

Club chairperson Fiona Hegarty told Dublin Gazette that the club has been left extremely frustrated by the situation.

She said: “We’re in a situation where the first phase of the track was complete. The drainage works and the pipework are all pretty much complete, so our next phase we were moving in to was actually to pour the tar surface.

“That would settle for two weeks and then you put the tartan track on, so that’s how close we were to finishing.”

CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

2 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 26 April 2018

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COUNCILLOR WAS SUBJECTED TO VACCINE TRIALS

Response to call for full state investigation is ‘a slap in the face’  MARK O’BRIEN

mobrien@dublingazette.com

A CLONDALKIN councillor who was subjected to vaccine trials as a child, has branded the response to his calls for a full state investigation into the practice as a “slap in the face”.

Cllr Francis Timmons (Ind) spent the first years of his life in Madonna House, a mother and baby home run by the Sisters of Charity.

Last year, he discovered that he had been used in

vaccine trials while in the home in 1973.

He said: “GlaxoSmithKline Ireland confirmed to me that I received a diphtheria tetanus pertussis (DTP) vaccine and a ‘Plain New’ vaccine as part of the Trivax study.

“The confirmation letter stated that I was one of 19 individuals to receive the DTP and one of 30 on the Trivax study at Madonna House in 1973.

“I had written to GlaxoSmithKline Ireland and they wrote back confirming that I was part of the trials.”

Cllr Timmons raised a motion last year with the

council requesting that the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs launch a full investigation into the vaccine trials carried out in mother and baby homes.

In response to the council’s request, the Department said that the issue would be investigated as part of the Commission of Investigation into Mother and Baby Homes.

But Cllr Timmons said he was unhappy with this response.

“I want to know was written consent given for me to be used in this manner and if so who gave it?” he said.

“It is despicable that

FASTNews

Sara Jagodzinska alongside her mother Martha

West Dublin shines in art competition

Cllr Francis Timmons

the State treated children in such a manner and answers need to be given now.

“Minister Zappone needs to comment in relation to this. The questions are very clear. Maybe she would have the decency to get them answered for me.

“The reply is yet another slap in the face for anyone used in this manner.”

The letter to the council argues that the scope of the Commission of Investigation into Mother and Baby Homes includes vaccine trials.

The response from Minister Zappone’s office states: “The comprehensive scope of the Commission’s remit ensures it can provide a full account of what happened to women and children in these specific institutions during the period 1922 to 1988.”

It adds that Article 1(V) of the Terms of Reference refers specifically to the examination of vaccine trials in these institutions.

“The Commission has sufficient scope and the necessary legal powers to examine these matters, and to make a determination on their relevance to the central issues in question, and where appropriate to make any recommendations to Government which the Commission deems necessary.”

SEVEN West Dublin students are among 37 winners from across Dublin County who have won top prizes in this year’s 64th Texaco Children’s Art Competition.

In the 9-11 years age category, third prize (€150) went to 9-year-old Sara Jagodzinska, from Scoil Mhuire Girls National School, Lucan, for her work entitled ‘Midnight Swim!’.

Other winners from the area, all of whom will receive a Special Merit Award, are Ryan Reynolds (12), Abbie Larkin (12) and Reanna Hand (12), all from St Michael’s School, Chapelizod, Leah Clarke (14) and Ella Simpson (13), both from St Joseph’s School, Tallaght and Holly Pearce (6), from The Studios Lucan.

Prizes will be presented at an awards ceremony in Dublin next month when all of the 126 top prize-winners will be in attendance.

Groups urged to get funds

Festival has the best of food fare

LOCAL youth projects and services are urged to apply for the newly opened €2m Capital Grant Scheme operated by the Department of Children and Youth Affairs, Katherine Zappone.

Local TD Frances Fitzgerald said she was “thrilled” the Government had approved the scheme.

“As a local TD, I know the valuable work done by our Youth Services in the Clondalkin and Lucan areas,” she said.

“As a former Minister for Children, I also know the financial demands on these services and the capital projects that are sacrificed to ensure that their monies can be focussed on providing services and supports to young people.”

Eligible local services will be invited by their Education and Training Board to apply for support and the scheme will be open for applications by the end of April.

THE Flavours of South Dublin Food Festival is scheduled to take place in Rathfarnham Castle Park on Sunday, June 24 from 11am to 6pm.

This unique food festival will showcase the very best cuisine from the locality and aims to highlight the diversity and vibrancy of the food culture in the county.

This is the second year of the festival, it is free to attend and guarantees to be a great day out for the whole family.

Visitors and locals alike are encouraged to come along and try some of the gourmet cuisine and delectable tastes.

The festival will feature flavours from around the world, from traditional Irish fare, to Asian dishes.

Commenting on the launch of the festival, Maria Finn, SDCC, said: “The festival will provide residents and visitors the opportunity to experience the wide variety of food and culture our county has to offer.”

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CHALLENGE: MOTHER TO RUN IN FULL COMBAT GEAR WITH 30LB PACK ON BACK TEENAGERS

Aoife can’t ‘weight’ to run for Children’s Hospital MARK O’BRIEN

A TALLAGHT woman is planning on running the VHI mini marathon in full combat gear and 30lbs of weight on her back.

Aoife Curran (32) is a member of the Irish Defence Forces and is running the mini marathon on the June 3 in aid of CMRF Crumlin.

Aoife is carrying the weight on her back as it is the weight of her three-year-old son, Oliver.

She said she is running the marathon for CMRF Crumlin because of the excellent care she received when she brought Oliver there.

“I’ve visited Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital with Oliver in the past, thankfully for nothing serious, and the care he received was second to none,” she said.

“I didn’t think twice about who I would run the mini marathon for because I believe every sick child deserves a diagnosis and the best possible outcome.”

Aoife is preparing for the marathon with a seven-week programme consisting of training sessions on a Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

“I do a run varying in distance and intensity

with Wednesday normally being the day I run in combat gear,” she said.

“Tuesday and Thursdays are a strength workout in the gym and Saturdays are used as a recovery session. Aside from the physical preparation, I am also raising awareness of what I’m doing on social media to try maximize awareness of CMRF Crumlin. Oliver has been helping me in my training by cheering me on and sometimes looking for piggy backs.”

Aoife hopes to raise €500 in her run. CMRF Crumlin staff and volunteers will be cheering on Aoife and the rest of #TeamCrumlin on June 3.

“As a parent, you always want your child to be happy and when they are sick you always want to make them better and would happily take the illness yourself,” she said.

“I can only imagine the frustration of having a very unwell child who requires a prolonged stay in hospital especially while waiting on a diagnosis of their child’s illness.

“Research definitely brings hope to people.

Research creates understanding of how disease works and if we understand it, we can learn how Aoife Curran with her son Oliver to fight and cure it.”

Free mental well-being programme A UNIQUE free mental well-being programme for teens launched last week and is initially being rolled-out to schools in the West Dublin area.

Mum Karina Murray has assembled a group of inspirational speakers and experts to create Aunua Team, which aims to help teens be resilient to bullying and peer pressure.

With increasing emphasis on positive mental health and well-being as core life-skills, Aunua Team’s new programme is called ROAR and is intended to break down barriers.

Further details on the programme is available from Karina Murray on 085 7745889, on the Aunua website, www. aunua.ie, twitter #aunua_ ie, or Facebook: Aunua Team.

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GALLERIES

Teachers and Students at Taoiseach Leo Varadkar’s visit to Luttrellstown Community College. Pictures: Simon Peare

Michael O’Donovan and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar

Leo Varadkar and Gary Cole

Aaron Munster singing for Taoiseach Leo Varadkar

An Taoiseach pays a visit to Lutrellstown

A

N Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar paid a visit to Luttlrellstown Community School last week where he checked on the progress of the new school extension which is under construction.

There was great excitement among the students to meet the head of Government.

Some students put on musical on musical performances for their guest of honour. He also took the time to listen to speeches from some of the students

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar’s with teachers and students

Student Luke Russell and principal Fionnuala Ní Chaisil with Taoiseach Leo Varadkar

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ADMINISTRATION: LONG-AWAITED REFURBISHMENT WORKS HAVE STALLED

Lucan Harriers’ track runs into some major problems FROM PAGE 1

While the club have not lost out on any money as they have only paid for works completed, Fiona said that due to the nature of South Dublin County Council’s tendering process, there are concerns that the club may face further costs.

“The council have been very helpful straight away to be fair,” she said.

“The problem is that there’s a process that has to be followed through the council, so if this has to go through a full retender process we’re back to – not square one, we have works done – but to wait on a tender process takes months.

“Our fear is that as time has passed, that a possible retender would lead to a higher price.”

The club would also face other unexpected costs that would put a

strain on their finances.

“We can’t afford to be without that track for a year,” said Fiona.

“Whatever about us releasing the track for three to four months, during that period we’ve had to rent the Weston hockey pitch, we’ve had to rent Scoil Mhuire and we’ve had to rent Le Cheile in Leixlip for the juveniles.

“We’ve 180 plus juveniles that train on Tuesday and Thursday evenings and we have to have somewhere safe to train them.

“We can’t go out on the road with juveniles so it has to be a secured premises and that host cost us in terms of rental during this period, but we expected that for the period but if it goes longer that’s the difficulty for the club because we’re going to incur expenses on the back of that.”

The laying of a run-

ning track is also weather dependant, which means that the track could be delayed by up to a year.

“It’s all very climate based,” said Fiona.

“It starts at a particular time of year so that the climate goes to a certain level, so that the tar can be poured and the tartan surface can be laid. It can’t be too cold.

“We were praying for the good weather and the good weather came last week and I thought ‘great, that’s exactly when we need it’ and then it just all happened very suddenly on the Wednesday that the news started to break.”

The club are waiting for South Dublin County Council to come back to them with proposals for what to do next, but are hoping to work out a way to grit the track so that it can be used temporarily until work can be restarted.

Shanice Stafford, Naomi Lanney, Imelda Kinch and Aine Mitchell

Enterprising teens set for finals to represent South Dublin

SOME of the county’s most enterprising teenagers are counting down to the Student Enterprise Programme National Finals on May 2 in Croke Park. Student entrepreneurs from Colaiste Chillian, Clondalkin will be representing South Dublin.

In the Intermediate Category, the students competing in Croke Park under the guidance of Natasha Preston from Colaiste Chillian, are Shanice Stafford, Naomi Lanney, Imelda Kinch and Aine Mitchell. These students identified the need for hoodies for sports and within the school with the permission of the Principal as normally jackets were not permitted.

Further information about the Student Enterprise Programme is available from www.studententerprise.ie, with free resources available for teachers and schools. Pictures: Ben Ryan Photography

The refurbishment of Lucan Harriers’ running track has hit a huge snag

Council calls for due diligence before HAP tenants put in properties SOUTH Dublin County Council (SDCC) is to write to the Dublin Regional Homeless Executive (DRHE) requesting that they carry out due diligence and check planning compliance before placing HAP tenants in properties.

The move comes following the revelations that 44 HAP tenants were placed in Larkfield House in Clondalkin despite proper planning procedures not being followed by the developer.

The developer, Cavvies Ltd., had received planning permission to build 27 apartments at the site but it emerged that the 44 apartments had been built.

An Bord Pleanala recently rejected the appeal to build the additional apartments.

The motion was brought before the April meeting of the Clondalkin Area Committee meeting of SDCC by Cllr Mark Ward (SF).

He said: “The Larkfield House development is a perfect example of a developer having total disregard for the planning process.

“Permission was initially granted for 27 apartments at the site of the former Liffey Valley Fitness in 2016.

“In May 2017 developer Cavvies Ltd applied for permission for a total of 48 residential units.

“The council refused permission and despite this 44 units were built.

“A number of families came through the DRHE and were granted homeless HAP. “Some of these families had spent a

considerable amount of time in homeless accommodation before securing a home in Larkfield House.”

Cllr Ward said that DRHE had placed the families in Larkfield House without carrying out due diligence and checking for proper planning compliance.

“The problem of planning only arose when the council carried out checks after a number of people on our housing list applied for HAP in Larkfield House.

“SDCC need to be commended for the level of inspection carried out and I urge the DRHE to follow suit in future.”

To date SDCC have not payed HAP for the tenants in Larkfield House.

“I have asked SDCC to make these payments on an interim basis so tenants can have the fear of homelessness lifted and give them time to find somewhere else to live while the planning issues are resolved,” said Cllr Ward.

“While the DRHE have some responsibility in allowing families to move into this development, let me be clear here, the only person at fault is the developer, not the families or the council.

“Any and all punitive measures should be used against this developer to send out a message that proper planning procedures must be followed before a single tenant can move into a development.”

A spokesperson for the Dublin Regional Homeless Executive had not responded to a request to comment before going to press.

FASTNews

Support urged for Dublin river clean-ups FIANNA Fail spokesperson for Dublin, John Lahart TD has said it is important that every Dubliner offers their full support all year round to initiatives aiming to clean-up the rivers in our city which are plagued by illegal littering.

The Deputy was commenting ahead of last weekend’s inaugural ‘Dublin Waters Day’ which is a co-ordinated effort to clean up the rivers across Dublin including the Royal and Grand Canals.

He said: “As Dublin develops and expands, the waterways across our Capital have become dirty and are piling up with rubbish and litter which has been illegally disposed of.

“The level of pollution in Dublin waterways is quite overwhelming but by no means impossible to overcome – there are measures that can be introduced to clamp down on illegal dumping, fly tipping, littering and even the industrial scale dumping that continues to tarnish our city landscape.

“There is no excuse for any of us to pollute our waters or endanger the wildlife or marine habitat that relies on them.

“We all need to be more conscious of the environmental impact of litter and general waste.”

Gardai recover cigarettes in Clondalkin GARDAI have recovered 1.3 million cigarettes, valued at €750,000, following a search of a premises in the Clondalkin area on Friday night. Gardai from Clondalkin investigating the theft of the cigarettes from a premises in West Dublin on the Monday, April 16 searched a premises in Clondalkin and recovered the stolen cigarettes. No arrests have been made and investigations are ongoing.

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GALLERIES OF THE WEEK

Harriers Put Through Their Paces

Man oh Mann, what a super show to enjoy!

E

URASIA Supermarket, based at Fonthill Retail Park, pulled out all the stops for an incredible show at the Scientologist’s centre, where G.K. Entertainment had arranged for entertainer Harbhajan Mann to visit as part of the Tin Rang tour initiative. Beloved of millions around the world, the main Mann was a huge hit with the audience, who also lapped up the wide range of diverse entertainments at the hosting venue.

LUCAN Harriers were represented at the Garmin Great Ireland Run 10k which incorporated the AAI National 10k Championships which was held in the Phoenix Park on Sunday 15th April.

In the 10k, the first home for Lucan Harriers in 86th position overall was Patrick O’Donoghue (pictured) in a time of 35.56 followed in 116th place by Will Byrne in 36.49 and David Trunk in 44.40. First Lucan Lady home was Kathleen Trunk in 46.48 and she was followed by Danijela Klopotan in 48.11 and Tricia Gough in 48.13 – all three ladies finishing in the top 1,000 in the race. Keith Gallagher finished in 50.13 with Eileen O’Brien home in 53.03 – 5th in her age group in the National Championships, followed by Helen McGinnity Gleeson in 54.28, Anne Smith in 58.09, Celine Murphy O’Keeffe in 58.42, Marie Collins in 1.00.04, Kim Jones in 1.01.15, Anita Hughes in 1.03.37, Fanchea Gibson in 1.12.29 and Josephine Dignam in 1.17.28.

There was also a 5k race held on the day and Joanna McCormack was the sole Lucan representative and finished in 38.42.

Picture: Rob Brannigan

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LOVE YOUR DUBLIN: THE BREAKDOWN OF THE BEST HANG OUTS AND HISTORICAL GEMS

MOUNTJOY PARK LOOKING BLOOMING GREAT

THE LITERARY PARADE & SENSE OF HISTORY AN IN-DEPTH LOOK AT SOME OF THE CITY’S BEST PARKS

H

IDDEN just off the beaten path in the Liberties, St Patrick’s Park surrounds the historic St Patrick’s Cathedral on the south side of the city. It’s a sun trap in the slightly warmer months, with flowers and trees adorning the surrounds of one of the city’s bestkept springtime secrets.

Developed by Lord Iveagh under the St. Patrick’s Park Act of 1897, work was completed by July, 1904. Dublin City Corporation – now known as Dublin City Council – took ownership of the park from Lord Iveagh in the 1920s.

The park also features a ‘literary’ parade and several sculptures, celebrating various aspects of Ireland’s life and history.

The Literary parade is decorated with flowers, and a peep through the beautifully sculpted grills will show you things celebrating the life and works of such luminaries as Oscar Wilde, James Joyce, Samuel Beckett and Jonathan Swift, who was the dean of St Patrick’s Cathedral.

MOUNTJOY SQUARE

BLESSINGTON STREET PARK

HERBERT PARK

LOCATION: Dublin 1 BEST FEATURE: The quiet solace

LOCATION: Dublin 7 BEST FEATURE: Scenic views of the water feature

LOCATION: Ballsbridge BEST FEATURE: Wildlife

LOCATED right in the centre of Mountjoy Square – at one time known as ‘Dublin’s premiere Georgian area’ – this northside park was originally developed around the 1800s

by Lord Mountjoy. One of the smaller Georgian squares in the city, it’s a much-loved amenity by locals and tourists alike.

It’s known by Dublin locals as a small respite from the hustle and bustle of the city, being a small bit quieter than its southside counterparts. A big enough green space, it’s a lovely spot to take in a lunchtime stroll from work, or even a picnic al-fresco on the weekends – weather permitting, of course.

There’s a large p lay area in the park for children to play on, equipped with a climbing frame, slide and a few swings. Mountjoy Square is also equipped with a basketball court for those who play, and multiple fields for a kickabout if that’s more your style.

SET between the city centre and Phibsboro, Blessington Street Park is the definition of a hidden gem. Also known as ‘The Basin’, the main feature of the park is a massive lake, dotted with small islands blossoming with greenery.

Originally build in 1811, the water in The Basin came from Lough Owel in Westmeath through the Royal Canal.

The water in the Basin was used almost exclusively to supply the Jameson Whiskey Distillery and the Powers Whiskey Distillery from the 1860s until the 1970s. It was refurbished in 1994.

Naturally, it’s home to a number of birds and ducks. It’s an easy stroll from O’Connell Street, located near student accommodation in a developing, bustling area of the city. Some new play areas add to the park’s attractiveness to citizens of all ages.

OVER IN the heart of Ballsbridge lies Herbert Park, one of the city’s best-loved green spaces. Its 32 acres house a number of lakes and sporting amenities and it was recently developed to include an all-weather pitch and a new playground.

The park is named after Sidney Herbert, the father of the Earl of Pembroke, who gave the site to Pembroke Urban District Council in 1903 to use as a park. It was developed into a public park in 1907, finally opening its doors to the public in 1911.

Considered relatively small by Phoenix and Marlay Park standards, Herbert Park is neverthless a small space with a lot of personality. Football pitches, tennis, boules and croquet courts are all actively used in the park. Some particularly vibrant graffiti has appeared on the outskirts of the park, and can be seen while passing the park.

26 April 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 13

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PENSIONS

OUR GREAT GUIDE ON PENSIONS

INSIDE...

P15 Retirement research P16 Facing ‘complex’ rules P17 Keep/transfer scheme P18 Vox Pension Pops

CITIZENS’ THOUGHTS

Why not learn what the ‘Vox Pensioni’ think?

PENSIONS may not exactly be a hot topic for most of us – but Dublin Gazette soon learned that, once we put Dubs and citizens on the spot for some vox pops, many of you shared the same concerns and outlooks about the little-discussed but oh-soimportant money matter.

Our reporters picked people at random on the streets of Dublin to hear what you think about pensions – and our vox pops included in this special pensions supplement saw many of the same answers and thoughts coming up time and time again.

From worries about the future (or a more relaxed outlook from those who’ve started saving) to more general concerns, take the time to read about what many of us think about pensions – and start thinking about what you plan to do about your pension...

Planning for the Best years of our Lives Everything you wanted to know about pensions, but didn’t know who to ask THIS supplement emphasises the importance of planning for your retirement as early as possible. You will read about the importance of getting a pension that will provide you with a comfortable living.

We also provide information about the benefits and peace of mind that a good pension scheme gives you and your family after you retire from work.

Talking to Dublin Gazette in our extensive vox pops (see panel, left, and scattered

across these supplement pages), the results were quite startling, with many citizens clearly unaware of how to go about getting a pension that would provide financial security for themselves after retirement, or for their families.

The reality is that you need to start saving young (ideally in your 20s or 30s) and to save at least 10% of your income each year.

If you start saving late (in your 40s and 50s), you’ll have to save a large portion of

your income – as much as 50% a year.

With the pressures of modern day living and the financial burden of rearing young families, many people are unwilling to make the commitment and lifestyle changes they would need to make, in order to save enough to afford a comfortable retirement.

This feature provides some very valuable information about the benefits of having a good pension and how to secure one that suits your requirements.

26 April 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 15

PLANNING FOR THE BEST YEARS OF OUR LIVES

Congratulations on retiring – so what’s next?

RESEARCH conducted by the Retirement Planning Council of Ireland shows that half of us who haven’t planned for retirement feel anxious about the impending change to our lifestyle, finances and family life.

According to Derek Bell, chief operations officer of the Retirement Planning Council, how we prepare for retirement greatly affects our experience of it.

Here he outlines how to best plan for the next stage of our lives ...

Graduate into retirement If you can, consider gradually exiting the workforce rather than a sudden departure.

Consider dropping to a three-day week, or mornings only.

Ideally, we recommend that employees start reducing their work sched-

ule up to a year in advance of retirement to start acclimatising to their new routine.

Consider when to retire In Ireland, the weather plays a huge part in our lifestyles. If you retire in spring or summer, the weather is better and the evenings longer – a more pleasant time to be off work and be out and active.

Those who retire at this time of the year tend to transition more easily than those who do so in autumn or winter.

Establish your identity Ask yourself who you are, outside of your work life and personality. Make a list of all the other aspects of your identity – husband, grandfather or wife, grandmother, musician, tennis player, art enthusi-

Retirement is time to reconnect with who you are as a person outside ‘just’ your work identity

ast. Where does your work identity come on that list?

Those who start with their work identity and struggle to identify other identities can find it difficult to transition into life without work.

This can also seriously impact partners.

Tap back into old hobbies Your average work and commute time can add up to over 50 hours a week.

Re-visit old hobbies to help fill up that big space once you’ve retired. Consider summer, winter, team, individual, physical, mental, old and new hobbies.

Be wary of developing bad habits With no work to get up for in the morning, it’s easy to lie in bed, have that extra glass of wine or two in the evenings, or graze on food during the day.

Ask yourself if you would be doing this if you had work tomorrow. If not, think twice.

Plan your new routine Set as much into routine as is possible. What time will you wake up, what time of day you will go for a walk, visit friends, engage in activities etc.

Structure will help you settle in to your new daily routine. Plan chunks of time, not every minute of every hour.

Plan your finances Our research shows that 65% of people feel financ-

es are their greatest concern when approaching retirement. Having completed our course, this percentage dropped to 25%!

Give your finances some attention now. What will your new income be?

Check your benefits and entitlements.

Set aside a budget for any new activities, travel or socialising that will be new expenses.

Check your legal affairs Make sure you have made a will and consider setting up Power of Attorney or an Enduring Power of Attorney in case a health situation may arise in which you may not be capable of managing your affairs.

Planning properly with a reputable solicitor can help minimise expenses and complications further

down the road.

Enjoy your new life Some 80% of our social contacts come from workbased contacts. Invest time in meeting new people through activities, community organisations or volunteering.

Now is the time to indulge in hobbies and passions and approach this new stage with enthusiasm and confidence.

DEREK Bell is COO of the Retirement Planning Council of Ireland. To find out more about retirement planning and the courses available, see www.rpc.ie.

16 DUBLIN GAZETTE 26 April 2018

PENSIONS

Whether male or female, make time to start your pension now AS PEOPLE develop through their lifetime they have an expectation that a time will come when they will be able to retire.

For some people, the State pension is sufficient to provide a basic level of income. Others may have an opportunity to accumulate wealth without pension schemes – perhaps through their business ventures or other assets.

But most people will want to supplement what they have with some form of pension scheme. Many employers also take the view that, while their employees are working, they should be building up an entitlement to a pension when they retire.

Pension arrangements have several advantages: • When people come to retire they will experience a reduction in income – a pension makes up for some of this loss of income in retirement; • Pension schemes can

provide protection in the form of lump sums and pensions to dependents in the event of a member’s death; • In order to encourage pension schemes, the State provides tax relief on contributions made to pension schemes and the growth in their investments.

Saving for retirement is extremely important. People are living longer and leading more active lives in retirement.

As a result, it is more important than ever for you to think about where your income will come from when you retire.

Pension saving is one of the few areas where you can still get tax relief.

About half of the people working in Ireland are members of pension arrangements.

The State pension is intended to ensure that everyone receives a basic standard of living in retire-

SHARON FLANAGAN, 32 DO YOU have a pension?

No. It’s definitely something that I need to set up! Some people start thinking about it in their 20s, but I think I’m a bit late to the party!

Do you think there’s enough information on pensions out there?

No. They’re not really advertised a lot; I wouldn’t have a clue where to

JAMES AARON DOYLE DO YOU have a pension?

I don’t have a pension, I should set one up. I’ve had it suggested to me many times. I guess I don’t have enough information on it really, to be honest.

Would you like to learn more about pensions?

I would. Going out and finding out about it yourself when you don’t know anything about it, can be really confusing.

I would probably turn

ment. For example, the full State Pension (Contributory) currently is €243.30 per week, or approximately €12,000 per annum.

When planning for retirement you will need to decide whether this is enough to live on in retirement, and if not, where your additional retirement income will come from.

Few people realise that having the required level of income in retirement requires a substantial level of pension savings.

Example If you were to buy a pension from an insurance company at retirement of €10,000 per annum, you could need a pension fund of €200,000 or more.

To avoid having to put aside large amounts, it is better to join a pension scheme and start saving as soon as you can.

Although men and women are treated equally

look for one.

Is there any family member you could talk to about a pension?

Probably my dad; I know that he has a pension.

to a family member [for more information].

Would any of your family members have a pension?

As far as I’m aware, my dad did, but he passed away when I was young. I don’t even think my mother has one now, [but] she’s on the widow’s pension.

As far as I’m aware, the only ones that have pensions in the family are my sisters Elaine and Sharon.

Do you think it is easy to get information on pensions?

I haven’t looked into

it too much, but from what I’ve gathered, no.

I could walk into a bank today, and they could probably give me a load of spiel about it, and I wouldn’t understand it.

But at the same time, I’m always open to going in and asking about it. I just haven’t really thought about it.

in relation to pension provision, there are a number of areas, such as maternity leave, part-time working and breaks in employment that are of particular interest to women.

Some women are homemakers and rely on benefits available from their spouse/partner’s pension scheme. Also, women generally live longer than men and so are more likely to need their pension to last longer.

These factors mean that women can be more vulnerable in relation to retirement.

Ultimately, the earlier a pension plan is started, the more time the fund has to accumulate and the better off you will be.

It is even more important now to provide for your retirement, considering that the age from which the State Pension becomes payable is increasing over the next few years.

RUTH MCCOY, 34 DO YOU have a pension?

I actually don’t, no. I think when you get to your 30s it kind of hits you that you need to.

I suppose it depends on the jobs or career that you’re in as well, if you see it as a long-term profession, like teaching or nursing.

Do you think there’s enough information on pensions out there?

Not really, no. Maybe I haven’t looked hard enough!

Would you go to family members for pensions advice?

DON KIERNAN, 46 DO YOU have a pension?

I do. I have a couple of pensions. I work in RSA; I’ve had various pensions over the years, through the English side of the company, and then the Irish side of the company, and now we’re on a defined contribution through Irish Life.

Do you find you’re less worried about the future because you have a pension?

I think I do, because they project that I have enough to do me.

Where did you get pension advice?

The rules can be complex, but they’re set up to help you PERSONAL pensions mean pensions that are organised individually by self-employed people or employed people who do not have an occupational pension scheme.

The rules governing personal pensions have changed very considerably in recent years.

Personal pensions are not subject to the regulation of the Pensions Authority. Instead, personal pensions are subject to tax law and financial services legislation (including the general law on insurance).

Tax relief is available for contributions to personal pensions and the amount of the relief is age-related.

Most personal pensions policies are insurance policies. Unlike other insurance policies, the contributions

Yes, my sister – w h o ’s a teacher – would b e g re a t for advice.

She’s only a few years older than me, [but] she has a pension, so she’d be a good person to go to for advice.

But maybe the Government or a State agency should have a campaign to make people more aware of the importance of getting your pension sorted.

Through work. Initially it was included in my salary – not that you were forced into it, but it fell into your lap, so you didn’t have to think about it.

Do you think, in general, there’s enough information out there for people?

I think people probably need a push. I know lots of people who don’t have pensions because they never actually sat down and said, ‘Do you know what, I need to do [this]’.

It’s a lot of money – you’re talking 400 quid a month. If you’ve 400 quid in your back pocket that’s not somewhere

attract tax relief if various conditions are met.

The traditional personal pension arrangement was that you invested your money – usually on an annual basis – with an insurance company.

The premiums you paid were then invested by the insurance company in an investment fund. You could not remove your funds and invest them with another company. When you reached the age specified in the policy, you were obliged to use your accumulated funds to buy an annuity.

Since 1999, you are no longer

else, and you need it, [then] you hold onto it.

Would you have any advice for anyone who doesn’t have a pension?

I would advise people to start, even if they start small. Because once it’s there, and as you get older, and maybe your salary increases a bit, you can up it. But I would say, just start.

obliged to buy an annuity and you also have considerable flexibility about moving between different funds.

Note that you may get tax relief on contributions to approved personal pension arrangements. This relief is more generous as you get older.

Since January 1 2011, you pay PRSI and the Universal Social Charge on your pension contributions.

26 April 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17

PLANNING FOR THE BEST YEARS OF OUR LIVES

A new job doesn’t necessarily mean moving over to a new pension scheme WITH the economy now improving, many employees are moving their services to new employers. When an employee moves employment, they have a number of choices in relation to their pension plan: • They can leave the monies with the former employer; • They can transfer the monies to their new employer pension scheme, if they have one; and • They can transfer the funds into a Personal Retirement Bond.

Some believe they should simply transfer their benefits to the new employer scheme – so they can keep things ‘nice and neat’.

However, there may be some good reasons to retain your funds with the former employer – the charging structure

might be very attractive, or the scheme may have access to a wider range of funds.

In the case of premature death, the deferred benefits will be paid to your estate as a taxfree lump sum.

If your first instinct is to move the monies to the new employer scheme – tread carefully.

The new employer may offer a ‘lower charge’ pension scheme and while it may be nice to keep all your pension pots in one place, there are a number of considerable drawbacks to this approach.

Locking in your pension monies If you enjoy working for your new employer and you don’t anticipate retiring until 65 (or later) – if this is you, then you have effectively tied up your for-

continue to work.

Having Less Control over how your monies are invested If you invest your monies into your new employer scheme, they may have more limited fund choices and you may have less choices in relation to how your monies might continue to be invested.

A transfer to a Personal Retirement Bond allows you to take full control over how the monies are invested.

mer pension scheme such that you can’t access these monies until you retire from your current employer.

However, if you had trans-

ferred your former employer funds into a Personal Retirement Bond, you would retain full access to these monies from as early as age 50 – even if you

Don’t let any ageism clip your wings as a travelling pensioner IT SEEMS that once we reach the ripe old age of 66, we just fall off a cliff and become invisible. However, today’s pensioners are far removed from those of 50 years ago.

People are now living much longer and are much more conscious of their health. Many have ‘bucket wish’ lists that need to be filled, with people saying that they’re so busy now that they don’t know where they got the time to go to work in the first place.

A couple of weeks ago, Pricewatch attended a Senior Times expo. The event was dedicated to things of interest to an older audience.

One of the things that came up more than once was the difficulty that many older people have in getting travel insurance.

The refrain that was heard repeatedly was that people are now living longer and staying healthy for longer; and just

because they hit a certain arbitrary age, they don’t feel their horizons should be shortened by outside forces – but too often they are, with ageism rife in the travel insurance business.

Someone who tries to get travel insurance at 66 can often pay twice as much as someone aged 65, even though there is no difference in the level of risk the two people pose to companies!

However, there are companies that make it their business to offer travel insurance to older people.

There is oktotravelinsurance.ie and goodtogoinsurance.eu, which you will probably never have heard of, and the AA, which many will have heard of, while VHI covers most of the travelling public in Ireland aged 70 to 80.

Age Action Ireland has a comprehensive list of companies that insure older people, although it does make it clear that it

does not endorse any of the companies, and – as with most things – it is

very important that you do your homework before you agree to anything.

Payment of your pension benefits on premature death before retirement This issue is often overlooked and it is a KEY decision for NOT transferring your monies into your new employer scheme.

Under current legislation, if you die in service (death in ser-

vice), the pension scheme can pay a lump sum not exceeding the greater of €6,350, or four times the deceased employee’s final remuneration may be provided.

In many instances where an employee dies and where the pension fund value exceeds four times their salary on death, the payment of a lump sum is limited to four times their final salary.

If the employee transfers his former employment benefits into a Personal Retirement Bond, the full value of the Personal Retirement Bond can be paid as a tax-free lump sum on premature death.

For further information on this type of cover, contact Full Circle Financial Services Limited at 01 253 0060, or see www. fcfinancial.ie.

18 DUBLIN GAZETTE 26 April 2018

PENSIONS BRIAN RYAN, 43 DO YOU have a pension?

No. But I suppose I would like to have a pension.

Would you worry about not having a pension?

I suppose I would, but I’m living life in reverse – I only started going back to studying late in life, so I’m doing it all kind of backwards.

Did you put any money aside when you were younger?

No, I spent it! I do save at the moment, but I suppose at some point I’ll probably consider a pension, I just have to wait until there’s more money coming in.

Do you have a family member you could ask for advice about a pension?

My wife – she has a pension. I’ve no idea [what kind of pension it is], but it’s through the bank.

A message on pensions you should heed

TOMMY D’ARCY, 55 DO YOU have a pension?

I do. I had a couple of companies, so I had a pension through my own business. But then I lost it, so I also now have a pension through my work, so I have a couple of different types.

When did you first take out your pension?

When I was 21. I didn’t know what I was doing at the time! But I really didn’t get into them until I started the business, which was in my 30s.

Then I understood the concept a lot better.

Did you find you were more clued up about pensions because you ran your own business?

Totally. I could put money into a pension which was tax-efficient as well, so it made it a bit easier.

Do you think it is

EDDIE HEALY, 32 DO YOU have a pension?

No, [but] I would like to get a pension.

Do you think there’s enough information out there about pensions?

I don’t think there’s enough information out there at all. There’s a lot of things I don’t understand when they start trying to describe a pension to me.

You were saying your employer is looking into getting a pension for you?

As I believe, it’s mandatory for an employer to offer you a pension, so I’ve said it to him and he’s trying to go down that road of offering a pension to me.

Do you have a family member you could ask for advice about a pension?

I haven’t gone to any family member. It’s not a very talked about subject.

Do you worry about money for when you retire?

Yes, in my trade [refrigeration], I think I’ll be finished at about 60, so [I do worry].

CATHAL LYNCH, 40

easy to get information on pensions?

No. People have to go and look for it; there’s nobody telling them.

[There’s] salesmanship too, there’s a lot of commission involved in that business, which is not telling the facts.

What advice would you give to anyone who doesn’t have a pension?

Definitely take one out, because no matter how small the amount you put into it, it’s nice to know the comfort of having it for later in life.

It’s difficult in today’s society to do it, but definitely consider it, because it’s so worthwhile.

CHAP PARPALUTA, 31 DO YOU have a pension?

Yes, I do. It’s just a regular one from work. And I also have a private one back home in Romania, which I pay every year.

Do you find you’re less worried about the future because you have a pension?

Of course, because I look at my parents and I see their situation. They’re getting [about] €150 a month, which is nothing, it’s just to pay their bills.

Would you have any advice for anyone who doesn’t have a pension?

Make it a priority. It makes you more secure. When you get old, you don’t want to just stay in the house. You want to enjoy life.

IT USED to be the case for many of us that a pension was something that your mum or dad (probably) had, and that it was something we’d all think about “some other time”, most likely when we’re “a bit older”.

Not any more – changing demographics and much better awareness of taking care of ourselves means that, with luck, most of us will live long and healthy lives – and a secure financial future isn’t based on luck, but on proper planning.

With this in mind, it’s especially important that at any age – but especially if you’re young, and for those of us with families – we all plan on putting together a pension plan for that dim and distant day when we’ll need more than what the state may be able to provide. After all, that day’s rushing towards us all quicker than you’d think, and you’ll be glad indeed you’ve saved for a pension!

And, just in case you think Dublin Gazette is trying to scare you into being sensible, just take a look around at some of these thoughts and comments from these other vox pops. Ask yourself if you share the same thoughts, worries and concerns as the rest of these Dubliners and citizens who shared their thoughts on pensions with us. If so – and even if not – don’t delay, start planning your pension today!

LOUISE LEONARD AND DAUGHTER ROISIN DO YOU have a pension?

No, I don’t.

Is i t s o m e t h i n g you’ve thought about?

Yes, I have, but I think I’m getting to the stage now where I’m getting too old to start looking into it!

Do you worry about not having a pension?

I do. Because what am I going to live off? How am I going to pay my bills?

Do you think it is easy to get information on pensions?

R: It’s not really advertised; you have to actually search [for] them

DO YOU have a pension?

I do indeed. It’s a defined contribution pension; [I got it] pretty much as soon as I started working.

Where did you get pension advice?

From my parents.

They worked in the public sector, so they knew the importance of having a good pension.

I work in the private sector.

I think if [pension payments] comes out [of wages] from the start, you don’t miss it.

And when you get to 40, it’s actually nice to know you have something there.

Do you find you’re less worried about the future because you

have a pension?

Ah, I always worry about the future, but I’m less worried I suppose!.

Would you have any advice for anyone who doesn’t have a pension?

I think it’s probably better to start it sooner rather than later because we’re all living longer, and the State pension isn’t particularly generous.

So, if you want a pretty good quality of life after you retire, it’s best to plan for the future.

KATE ZYROMSKA, 36

yourself.

L: And then they use language that people don’t understand.

They’re throwing these big mad words out, where as if they just put it in plain English, [it would be easier].

Do you think chatting about it now with us, is getting you thinking about it?

Yeah, definitely. Myself and my husband have sort of talked about it, but it’s just laziness as well because pensions aren’t on your doorstep; they’re just not there for you, no one publicises them.

You don’t hear or see much about them, not unless you’re in a pensionable job, [such as] a state job.

DO YOU have a pension?

No. I would like to get one. I’m starting to worry, especially now, since I became a mam. Savings aren’t always enough, so it would be great if employees would introduce that to you.

Do you think there’s a lack of information out there?

Yes, I’m sure [most] people would have no idea when we should start thinking about it, so definitely there should be more information about it. If I was given an option 10 years ago I could have started.

Would you know where to look for one?

No! Maybe you can write an article about that!

26 April 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 19

HOME & STYLE SPRING ELEGANCE: TV’S



Michelle Keegan launches a lovely, elegant line for Littlewoods Ireland

DUBLIN

WESTWORLD AIMS PEUGEOT IMPRESS WITH TO ENTERTAIN P25 EASE WITH THE 5008 P28 PAGE 27

MAGAZINE

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

THE GIFT OF GAZ | I JUST WANTED TO GET ME MESSAGES, NOT A MAUREEN RANT

Banking on a quick escape from an epic moan THE summer was nice there for the few days.

I made sure I got out and about in it because ye never know – that could be it for another year.

I had a grand few strolls round the place, but of course the only time someone stops you on the street is when it’s wet and horrible out and, sure enough, didn’t I bump into Davy’s wife, Maureen, on Tuesday afternoon.

If I’d just left it five minutes later to pop down and grab me mes-

sages, I’d have missed her, but I was gasping for a cup of tea and had no milk in the house. I knew from the look of thunder on her face that I wasn’t getting away from this encounter quickly.

She didn’t even say “Howya” before launching into it.

“The bowsies,” she roars at me. “The utter bleedin’ bowsies! Charlatans, that’s what they are! Never trust any of them. Be better off with me money in the mattress.”

“What’s wrong, Mau-

reen?” I says to her. to keep me strength up. or something?”

“Three hours I’m after What if I was a diabetic “Ah, Maureen, come being up in on now. You’re that bank,” not dire and If I’d just left it five she says. p a t h e t i c, ” I “Three feck- minutes later to pop down and s ays. I w a s i n ’ h o u r s ! grab me messages, I’d have only half lisC a n y o u missed Maureen tening, to be believe that, fair.

Gaz? “I said ‘dia“Three b e t i c ’ !” s h e hours and roars at me. they didn’t “ W h a t ’s offer any of diabetes got us a chair, a to do with the cup of tea – bank?” I says. nothing. Not Look, I’ll even an auld admit I was Hob Nob or probably consomething fusing the

“

situation more than it needed to be confused, but sure, I hadn’t had me cup of tea. I needed a sugar rush meself.

“Nothing, ye feckin’ eejit,” she says. “Other than the fact that I was up in the bloody bank for so long today, that’s all.”

“How come?” I says.

“The money has disappeared,” she says.

“Disappeared?” I asked her. “How has that happened?”

“I dunno how these things work,” she says.

“But it’s just disappeared. Some computer

error or something.

“It’s affected loads of people and they were all in there queuing to get emergency cash until it’s sorted.”

“And did you get sorted?” I says to her.

“I did, but it was an awful waste of a few hours,” she says. “Me day is gone, basically.”

I left her to it and then it dawned on me that I’d seen Davy eying up the Punchestown card the day before.

I hope it was the bank that made the money disappear ...

20 DUBLIN GAZETTE 26 April 2018

DUBLIN GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS 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

C O N TA C T S Managing Director: Michael McGovern mmcgovern@dublingazette.com Group Editor: Patrick Finnegan pfinnegan@dublingazette.com Deputy Group Editor: Shane Dillon sdillon@dublingazette.com Group Advertising Manager: Sue Griffith sgriffith@dublingazette.com Sports Editor: Stephen Findlater sfindlater@dublingazette.com Production Editor: Jessica Maile jmaile@dublingazette.com Picture Editor: Aisling Conway aconway@dublingazette.com Advertising Sales: 01 - 6010240 sales@dublingazette.com

FIND US ON

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26 April 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 21

COMMUNITY

GALLERIES

Help to nominate the best of Dublin for a top 98FM award IT’S that time of year again – time for people across the city to help sing the praises of the businesses, groups and people that make Dublin so great, thanks to 98FM’s Best of Dublin Awards 2018.

Now in their fifth year, the awards shine a light on Dublin’s hidden gems, with 98FM on the lookout to find all the people and places that make Dublin great.

Nominations are now officially open until May 4, when five deserving nominees in each of the 16 diverse categories will be shortlisted.

Shortlisted nominees will be sent a promotional pack to encourage customers, family

and friends to vote for them, before the winners are announced at the 98FM’s Best of Dublin Awards on May 31 in Royal Hospital, Kilmainham, Dublin 8.

The 16 award categories cover all the best ser-

vices Dublin has to offer, including local legends, favourite food and drink venues – and even the best bus driver.

Last year, the awards received 18,733 nominations, with a staggering count of almost 800,000

votes undertaken to find and crown the winners.

Finalists last year included local heroes such as paramedic David Kelly who won the coveted Dublin Hero award, Marcus Richardson who won Best Taxi Driver, as well as high-profile Dubliners such as comedian Brendan O’Carroll, who won Best Dub. The dizzying range of ‘Bests’ includes Barber, Restaurant, Shop, Butch-

ers, Gym, Coffee, Breakfast, Dub, Taxi Driver, Sports Person, Local Sports Club, Restaurant, Salon, Takeaway and Bar. Those shortlisted for a Best of Dublin award can also be in with a chance to win €10,000 worth of advertising with 98FM for the Best Campaign, with businesses urged to get people voting for them by posting on social media, or displaying the nominee poster front of house, and engaging with the great 98FM search for the city’s best, well, everything!

Nominate your Best of Dublin favourites at www.98fm.com/bestofdublin, and stay tuned to 98FM for updates on the awards.

Megan Henehan and Emma Delaney

Benita Wrochna, Tiegan Harris, Tammy Wright and Yannaah Somers

Junk Kouture Grand Final

J

Student Benita Wrochna

Student Tina Geoghegan

UNK Kouture is a national contest which encourages young designers in second level education to create striking couture designs and impressive works of wearable art from everyday junk that would normally find its way into the bin.

The competition aims to inspire and ignite passion in these teenagers while at the same time subtly educating them about the importance of recycling and reusing waste.

The Grand Final took place in the 3 Arena on Friday, April 19 and there were a host of local schools and A-list stars in attendance.

Julian Benson and Louis Walsh. Pictures: Brian McEvoy

22 DUBLIN GAZETTE 26 April 2018

GOINGOUTOUT

PICKWEEK OF THE

MAY 2 (WEDNESDAY)

Tears for Fears + Alison Moyet @ 3Arena, €65 EVEN if that lick of sunshine late last week hadn’t sent everyone a bit doolally, abandoning thoughts of gigs and great music to add a dash of colour from that big hot yoke in the sky to pasty-coloured limbs stretched out in parks and back gardens across the city, it’s a little bit of a quiet week out there, gig wise.

Quiet – but not dead – as you’re guaranteed to enjoy some classic choons courtesy of the once worldruling Tears for Fears, who’re teaming up with the mighty Moyet for a gig and a half at the 3Arena. Treat your ears to some of the catchiest songs from the past couple of decades.

Growing Up In Soulful pop: The Brave Rebirth of Delorentos

APRIL 26 (THURSDAY) William McCarthy (of Augustines) @ The Grand Social, €22 Lotto Boyzz @ The Academy, €14 Tiz McNamara + Pat Maloney @ Whelan’s, €10

APRIL 27 (FRIDAY) Sharon Needles @ The Button Factory, €30 Gomez @ Olympia Theatre, €32.50 One of the most overlooked and underrated bands of the turn of the century, Gomez’ debut two albums, ‘Bring It On’ and ‘Liquid Skin’ were works of noisy brilliance.

Jack L @ Vicar Street, €36.50 Robert John Ardiff (of Come On Live Long) @ Whelan’s, €8 The Alarm @ The Academy, €22.50

APRIL 28 (SATURDAY) Yo La Tengo @ Olympia Theatre, €31 Jack L @ Vicar Street, €36.50 Ultimate Painting @ The Grand Social, €14 Ultan Conlon @ Whelan’s, €15 The Wood Burning Savage @ Whelan’s (Upstairs), €9 John Bramwell (of I Am Kloot) @The Purty Kitchen, €15

APRIL 29 (SUNDAY) Of Mice and Men @ The Academy, €26 Just another outstanding Icelandic act (for a country with the population of Galway, they sure are everywhere) - Of Mice and Men are in the Mumford and Sons mold, and full of beautiful harmonies.

Roy Orbison (hologram tour) @ 3Arena, €59 Bruno Major @ The Workman’s Club, €16.50 Mick Konstantin @ Whelan’s, €12

APRIL 30 (MONDAY) Tokio Myers @ Olympia Theatre, €31

MAY 1 (TUESDAY) The Ruby Sessions @ Doyle’s, €7 Metz @ Whelan’s, €17.50

Dublin’s deeply-personal indie-popsters Delorentos are growing up, fast. In ditching and rewriting their fifth album, they hope the result – True Surrender – shows them for who they truly are.

AS AN embedded mainstay of the Irish music scene since their debut album, In Love With Detail, propelled them to regular radioplay and local acclaim, Delorentos – some of whom have been friends since childhood – have been fairly quiet since 2014 release, Night Becomes Light.

In part, that period of quietness has come about because they’ve produced two different albums.

The Dubs entirely abandoned the first of the two, written in a Spanish vineyard, in favour of a sound that more reflects the changes in their lives.

“As an independent band, that was a really hard call to make,” vocalist and guitar player Kieran McGuinness says of the decision to simply

ditch their first effort.

“Everything we do directly affects us as a result of being independent.

“With the Vineyard album, we’d taken several days off a tour to record, and the owner of Sonorama [a Spanish music festival] gave us access to a recording studio and a vineyard.

“We had 16 songs at demo stage, and we were happy when we finished.

“It gradually became clear that it wasn’t ‘us’ any more. A lot has changed for us in the last few years. Three of us have married and one has got engaged. Three have moved house, three have had babies.

“There’s been a crazy amount of things going on. That wasn’t reflected in the album we’d made.

“It was difficult, and

scary,” McGuinness recalls.

“You don’t get a lot of guarantees in music, and this meant putting aside touring, things like that, to start again.

“We have certainty with this album, though.

I believe it stands up, and shows who we are.”

He added: “There are songs with no guitar.

Songs with beats instead of drums, songs that are ‘built’ rather than played in a room, and that adds another layer to things.

“We wanted to write songs that reflect that movement into adulthood. The independence, the fear and anxiety, but also the joy, comfort and self-reliance.

“We’re not Snow Patrol,” McGuinness continues. “We’re not about

 JAMES HENDICOTT

to tour the world playing the same songs every night, and we know that.

“But we mean a lot to people, and we have to respect that and put everything into what we do.

“We played five nights in small venues recently and there were some people who came to all five nights to hear the new music.

“I guess it’s Delorentos ‘mark three’. We had mark one with the first two albums, that I feel kind of came together as one thing, and mark two with Little Sparks, and Night Becomes Light.

“This feels like mark three because of the way it’s produced. We’ve put aside the idea of writing radioplay tracks aimed at 18-20 year olds.

“We don’t want to write any more songs

about meeting girls or drinking with your friends.”

The result of that personal touch has been an intensity of connection with fans, one that’s clearly working, as a debut headline show at the Olympia Theatre, taking place in November, shows.

“If you’d told me as a 15-year-old that I’d be able to live my life making music, playing gigs and DJing [McGuinness is a semi-regular presenter on Radio Nova], I’d have thought that’s the most amazing news ever,” he admits.

“We burst ourselves with this, we left everything on the floor of the studio.

“You see a lot of bands quitting, and putting out press releases about how hard it is in the music industry now.

They’re right, it is tough.

But these are also joyful times.”

True Surrender is out on Friday, April 27.

26 April 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 23

FEED THE SOUL AND BODY WITH A BBQ MOOD IN THE AIR, WHY NOT GRILL TASTY CHICKEN

Keogh’s Crisps land a spud-tacular air deal

A NORTH Dublin farm are set to go global in the coming months, as their crisps have secured them a major contract with Emirates Airlines.

Keogh’s Crisps will be made available to first-class passengers on Emirates following a blind taste test of 15 different brands. The hand-cooked Irish crisps will be served as part of the airline’s snack service.

The flavours selected by Emirates include Keogh’s Irish Mature Cheddar, Shamrock and Sour Cream, and their Lightly Salted variety.

Tom Keogh, managing director of Keogh’s Crisps, made the announcement at Bord Bia’s recent food buyer event, Marketplace International.

He said: “We designed an innovative new 25g pack for first-class to accompany drinks. Quality and consistency is what first-class demands, so we’re just over the moon that our crisps will be flying premium all over the world. It’s just a great success story for a farm-produced brand like ourselves.”

Trust George to help serve up a delish dish NOW that Summer is here – well, just about – the George Foreman 10 Portion Grill & Griddle (€89.99) is perfect for a BBQ with friends.

There’s a four-portion grill and a six-portion griddle in one, meaning you can cook a number of portions at once.

The grill and griddle even allow for healthier

Get cooking with this great griller

cooking, with grease channelled away from the food into a separate grease tray.

(This also makes for easier cleaning up, too!)

To show you how to use the grill, take a look at this delectable Piri-Piri chicken recipe (right); it’s perfect for any time of year.

INGREDIENTS * 4 skinless chicken breasts * 6 to 8 fresh red chillies, depending on how hot you want * 1 clove garlic, ro u g h l y

chopped * 1 tsp salt * Half tsp dried oregano * Half tsp paprika * 100ml olive oil * 50ml red wine vinegar PREPARATION Preheat the grill to maximum temperature. Char the chillies on the grill for 2-3 minutes. Set aside until they’re cool enough to handle, then roughly chop and put them in a saucepan with the garlic, salt, oregano, paprika, olive oil and vinegar.

Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes. Allow the mixture to cool, then

blend it to a puree.

Put the chicken breasts in a lidded container or sealable plastic bag. Add the piri-piri sauce, spreading it evenly over the chicken. Seal and marinate the chicken in the refrig-

erator for at least one hour.

Cook on the grill for 8-10 minutes until cooked through.

Serve, and enjoy – the chicken is particularly delicious with salad and potatoes, or rice.

24 DUBLIN GAZETTE 26 April 2018

PUZZLES

CHALLENGE YOUR BRAIN...JUST FOR FUN!

SUDOKU EASY

MODERATE

CODEWORDS in association with

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.

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION FIND THE HIDDEN WORDS affix

grapnel

anchor

harbour

ballast

hobble

bind

killick

chain

make fast

clamp

moor

dock

secure

drop the hook

tie

fix

tractor beam

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

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

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

Cross off the letters in the A to Z list.

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION

26 April 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 25

TOP TWEETS A Quiet Place is a movie about a world in which, if you say anything at all, you are viciously attacked by blind monsters. In other words, it’s a movie about being on the internet. @KevPow3 The secret’s out, Kevin Power

Nothing like that feeling at the end of the day when your toddler says ‘I love you too, Chris O’Dowd.’ @BigBoyler Happens to us all the time,Chris O’Dowd

Tasha Yar was MURDERED 30 years ago today and yet that dirty binbag thing responsible has yet to be brought to justice.’ @LeGalaxie Star Trek: The Next Generation fans are still demanding TV justice for Yar one...

ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX WESTWORLD RETURNS WITH A PISTOL-FULL OF HIGH-STAKES DRAMA

Sequel aims to entertain SHANE DILLON

WITH many critics claiming that we’re living in the golden age of television, it’s easy to forget that Westerns – formerly a reliable staple of big- and smallscreen storytelling for decades – were for many years just as dead and face-down in the dirt as any number of nogood varmints left behind by grizzled sharpshooters.

Enter We s tworld at the very end of 2 0 1 6 , with the

complex character- and narrative-driven TV series based on the classic 1973 film (ignoring the misfiring 1980 dud of a very short-lived TV series) wowing critics and audiences alike.

With an incredible cast (including Tony Hopkins, Ed Harris, Thandie Newton, Sidse Babett Knudsen, James Marsden, Jeffrey Wright and Evan Rachel Wood, to name but a few), critics and fans went wild for the show, digging into myriad theories about what it was all really about.

Obstensibly a show about rich humans going on holiday to a truly vast Wild West-themed park whose citizens (Hosts) don’t know they’re robots, thus making them mere toys to chat to, play cards with – or even

Fan favourite Dolores returns as the complex robot rebel on an increasingly violent path

Unlikely alliances between human and robot characters who hate each other? Just another facet of the complexities of Westworld...

gruesomly murder if the humans (Guests) wished – Westworld explored some pretty dark topics.

While Game of Thrones has a much more visible public presence – even your granny knows who Jon Snow is – Westworld quietly became the other show that many people not just talked about, but obsessed over, as fans

and critics alike tried to solve its riddles, disjointed narratives, non-sequential hints and clues, and work out just what the hell was happening in the show.

That’s quite a lot of baggage to have to run with, but the just launched second series of the show last Sunday night (on Sky) looks set to ramp up the human

(and inhuman) tension and drama to new levels.

Set in the immediate aftermath of the series one finale, which basically saw many of the Hosts gain sentience, realise they’re robots, and then violently turn en masse on the Guests in their midst (as well as at the park’s management centre), the S2: 01 episode has upped the ante for potential spectacle and character drama alike.

Whether you’re interested in exploring the nature of consciousness and self-identity, or like complex narratives and superb cinematography, or simply like cheering on murderous robots hunting humans, it looks like Westworld has even more violent delights in store for this second season.

However, I think I’ll skip visiting any robots parks and just stick to the zoo, for now...

26 DUBLIN GAZETTE 26 April 2018

BeautyBITS

Printed Ruffle Neck Blouse €45

Jeremy Scott & Gigi Hadid in H&M [TV] MOSCHINO

H&M ready to team up with MOSCHINO H&M HAVE revealed their next, highly-anticipated designer collaboration at last week’s Coachella festival.

This year’s collaboration will see H&M team up with the eccentric and colourful MOSCHINO for the MOSCHINO [tv] H&M collection. The iconic Italian fashion brand have curated a collection specifically for H&M, which was announced by model Gigi Hadid at the annual MOSCHINO party at Coachella.

Creative director of MOSCHINO, Jeremy Scott, has become a highly regarded name in the fashion world since he became Creative Director in 2013. Scott is known for his colourful, youthful patterns and innovative shapes.

“I am so excited about MOSCHINO [tv] H&M. My life’s work has been to connect with people through fashion, and with this collaboration I’ll be able to reach more of my fans than I’ve ever had the ability to do,” Scott said.

The collection will be available in H&M stores across the globe (including Ireland) from November 8th.

Feelin’ Fit(Flop) at Swords Pavilions FITFLOP have opened a brand new, dedicated kiosk in Swords Pavilions.

The ‘state-of-the-art’ kiosk is dedicated to the world’s ‘most addictive’ ergonomic footwear, packed to the brim full of the best styles for Spring/Summer this year.

It will showcase the must-have pieces in the SS18 collection, as well as their latest innovation, the iQushion™.

The iQushion™ works by mirroring the natural shape of the foot. iQushion flip flops come in an array of new summer colours, two-tone prints and ombre colourways, proving that comfortable shoes aren’t always boring.

Be sure to pop by the FitFlop™ kioski at the Pavilions Swords, open now.

One of FitFlop’s SS18 styles

Spring

 Rachel D’Arcy

Elegance

FORMER Coronation Street actress and current star of BBC series Our Girl, Michelle Keegan has launched her brand new collection, designed exclusively for Littlewoods Ireland.

The collection took inspiration from Michelle’s own spring wardrobe, with the versatile range featuring printed dresses, tailored separates, statement co-ords and distressed denim.

The range has a soft colour palette, teamed with vibrant floral prints for a spring / summer look that is sure to stand out.

With looks created for the chicest summer events, the collection features premium and delicate fabrics, with attention to detail a key turnstone of the designs.

Michelle Keegan said: “I love the opportunity to design pieces that my friends, family and I would all love to wear. As we get ready for holidays and exciting occasions, I have designed a range which has the flexibility to be worn all summer but I’ve also added that extra special dress for a big event.”

Rossa Butler, marketing director at Littlewoods Ireland, said: “We are delighted to work with Michelle on this stunning capsule collection. The range covers everything from formal wear to occasion wear, ensuring our customer both looks and feels great when stepping out this spring summer.”

26 April 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 27

FRESH IDEAS FOR YOUR HOME AND WARDROBE

Sarah O’Hegarty

Denise Cantwell, Laura Downing, Orla Walsh and Jennifer Rock aka The Skin Nerd pictured at the Eau Thermale Avène Skin Speed Dating event this week which celebrated a selection of new launches by the brand Ruth Griffin and Lia Stokes

Grace Mongey

Terri Cooper

Tiered Geo Lace Dress €90

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HOME & STYLE

Rosemary McCabe gets a date with her soon-to-be perfect skincare regime. Pictures: Karen Morgan/Lensmen

SPEED DATING

E

au Thermale Avene celebrated the launch of its spring summer heroes this week with a Skin Speed Dating event at Studio 10, Wicklow St. The event celebrated some of the brand’s most exciting innovations to date including a range of sun care that actually works for your skin while protecting it. The brand also launched the latest in its antiageing range, the PhysioLift serum.

Guests were treated to a nutritionist approved breakfast before taking the opportunity to ‘date’ 4 experts – Jennifer Rock, ‘The Skin Nerd’, nutritionist Orla Walsh, The Fabulous Pharmacist Laura Dowling and Avène expert, Denise Cantwell, learning how to best care for their skin from the inside out.

Eau Thermale Avène products are available from pharmacies nationwide. Visit www.AVENE.ie for more information

28 DUBLIN GAZETTE 26 April 2018

3008 tops new car satisfaction survey

MACHINE OF THE WEEK

BRITAIN’S biggest new car satisfaction survey, Driver Power, has seen the Peugeot 3008 come out on top as the car which makes its owners happiest, with a remarkable 93.88% satisfaction score.

That’s a record score compared to previous winners such as the Skoda Superb in 2017 at 93.42%.

The new 3008 SUV has got the SUV style that’s in huge demand, and this is now backed up with a high-quality interior, plenty of space, a great drive and excellent reliability and that’s according

with 14.36% of those polled reporting an issue with

to the survey organised by Auto Express maga-

their car, compared to 12.15% in 2017.

zine.

The results from this year’s survey show an

Hybrids continue to make waves this year, with more hybrids featuring in the Driver Power Car of

improvement in driver satisfaction in every single

the Year Top 10 than ever before. Cars such as the

category, as well as a rise in overall satisfac-

Kia Niro, Lexus RX, Lexus NX, Lexus IS and Toyota

tion. There’s still work to be done, though, as new

Prius were rated particularly well for engine,

car owners continue to tell reported that their

gearbox and running costs in this year’s survey.

motors aren’t always trouble-free. New car own-

Now in its 16th year, Driver Power survey received

ers are reporting more problems with their cars,

more than 80,000 consumer responses for 2018.

Peugeot takes a lead in SUV style for 2018 Peugeot’s new 5008 car will make a strong impression on the Dublin car market for a combination of its distinctive styling, flexible seating, modern dash design and total package offer. MICHAEL MORONEY took a second drive in the new Peugeot 5008, this time the petrol powered Pure-Tech model that smoothly impressed him.

Ford joins hybrid market with new Mondeo Hybrid FORD IRELAND’S first Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) car, the Mondeo HEV, is now available at Ford dealerships across Dublin. The new Mondeo HEV is based on a four-door body style with a 2.0-litre, 187bhp petrol engine coupled with an automatic transmission in either Titanium or Vignale series.

The Titanium version has an entry price of €32,745 (including a promotional launch discount and VRT rebate), while the Vignale version prices start from €35,280.

Hybrid Electric Vehicles are the most popular of the electric models available as they neatly bridge the gap between traditional internal combustion engines and electric motors without the range anxiety that some motorists feel in relation to full electric vehicles.

The new Mondeo Hybrid uses the third-generation Ford petrol-electric hybrid system that claims to deliver the efficiency and refinement benefits of an electric drive in many driving scenarios while maintaining the driving range and freedom offered by a traditional combustion engine.

Two electric motors are used in the hybrid system. One motor supports the petrol engine in driving the wheels and another is used for regenerative charging to the 1.4 kWh lithium-ion battery, located behind the rear seats. The Mondeo Hybrid’s high voltage electric system is claimed to be designed to working-life standards similar to Ford’s traditional combustion engines and transmissions.

The Mondeo Hybrid is capable of driving at up to 135 km/ hr in electric mode, and the combination of a speciallydeveloped 2.0-litre Atkinson cycle petrol engine and electric drive claims to give Mondeo HEV impressive fuel efficiency

with a fuel consumption rate of 4.2 l/100km (23km/l). For comparison purposes, a 2.0-litre diesel 150bhp Powershift automatic transmission would deliver a fuel consumption rate of 4.8l/100km (20.8km/l).

Drivers can also use Ford’s Smartgauge interface to help monitor, manage and reduce fuel and energy consumption, with features including “Brake Coach” that encourages gradual braking to help return more energy to the battery.

Nissan, Ford, Fiat hit with 55 European car market dip NEW car registrations across Europe fell by 5.2% for the month of March with Nissan, Ford and Fiat brands seeing their European sales decline. There were new car sales drops in three of Europe’s five biggest markets, Germany, the UK, and Italy.

Nissan’s sales across Europe dropped by 16.3% last month, while Ford brand sales were down by 14.6% and Fiat sales fell by 13%, according to the latest data from the European car manufacturers association ACEA. ACEA reports that Brexit concerns impacted on the market as well as a slump in diesel car sales, while the German market dropped following a court rule that cities can ban diesel vehicles to tackle pollution.

PEUGEOT’S new 5008 marks a hat-trick of SUV cars that are setting new standards in car design and style for 2018. The French car brand has moved up more than two notches with a new threesome range of SUV models that stand out in terms of style, engine options and flexibility.

While the 5008 is the newest model to the range and the most spacious, the 3008 introduced in 2017, sets a high bar as it was voted European Car of the Year for 2017 and Irish Car of the Year 2018. For entry level SUV participants the recently upgraded 2008 offers a whole lot more than you can expect, to complete the hat-trick.

While I had an early drive in the diesel powered Peugeot 5008 at the start of 2018, recently I simply had to take a re-run in the car, this time putting the very impressive 1.2-litre turbo-petrol PureTech engine to the test. This 130bhp engine comes with plenty of acclaim as it was voted the category winner in the International Engine of the Year over three years from 2015 to

2017.

This new 5008 brings Peugeot into a growing market segment of seven seat SUV’s, with a unique design style that stands out from the crowd in a modern and distinctive

additional €520.

Peugeot claims that the new 5008 is lower and more spacious, yet less bulky than its competitors. And while it is a full seven seat car it retains the same height as

Peugeot 5008 1.2 PureTech Petrol Engine Engine power 0 – 100km/hr Economy Fuel Tank Capacity CO2 emissions Road Tax Band Main Service Euro NCAP Rating Towing rating Warranty Entry Price way. What’s noticeably different about the new 5008 is that it now comes with the new Peugeot iCockpit and digital instrumentation across the range. The 5008 range prices start from €29,345 plus delivery related charges for the Access 1.2 130bhp PureTech petrol version, while the entry diesel versions cost an

2 litre 130hp 10.9 seconds 19.6km/litre

(5.1l/100km or 55mpg)

56 litres 117g/km A4 €200 20,000km/12 months Five Star 2016 1,200kgs 5 years (100,000km) €29,345 before at 1.64m while the third row passengers get an extra 21mm of head height.

This new SUV design model is longer than the previous 5008 and Peugeot claims that this delivers additional knee room for the second row passengers who also have the benefit of individual sliding seats.

The extra length means

26 April 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 29

WHAT’S NEW IN TECHNOLOGY AND ON WHEELS

TECH & MOTORS

Get peace-of-mind motoring at Bluebell Motor Company BLUEBELL MOTOR COMPANY, located

down, even into April, traditionally

just off the Long Mile Road in the Blue-

a quieter month. I believe that suc-

bell Industrial Estate, Dublin 12, enjoys

cess is down to a number of factors.

a hugely loyal customer base as a

The range has never been as strong:

Main Peugeot Dealer in west Dublin.

from the nippy 108 and 208, to the

Delivering peace of mind-motor-

The new Peugeot 5008 is an impressive new seven seat SUV from Peugeot with great space, stylish modern looks and good economy. The new Peugeot iCockpit dash (below) design that’s especially modern in terms of style with plenty of functionality and a range of easy to use display options.

that the camera reversing kit is useful option for the 5008.

The second row of seats are matching and each separate and can be folded and tilted, while the two third row of seats can be easily folded or removed.

All three seats in the second have three-point ISO-fix child seat anchor points.

The seating arrangement gives the car great flexibility. In the five seat mode, the boot space is impressively huge, while the boot itself is a shade heavy and could benefit from an auto opening system that’s available from other brands.

My most recent driving test was with the Peugeot 5008 Allure 1.2 PureTech petrol and this is the trim level that has so far accounted for 56% of the model sales so far this year. Petrol sales for

the 5008 are growing with the benefit of the improved economy, and now account for 28% of all 5008 models in Ireland.

This 1.2 -litre turbo-petrol engine is impressively smooth in the Peugeot 5008. The engine power at 130bhp coupled with 230Nm of torque, means that this car is only marginally behind the bigger 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine version of the car in terms of acceleration performance.

What’s impressive is the smoothness of the driving experience. The

engine start stop system is at its perfection in a petrol powered car, such as the new Peugeot 5008.

The downside is the fuel economy figure, which in a strange sort of way is the price that you pay for a cleaner driving experience. This petrol car’s economy rating is 19.6km/litre (5.1l/100km or 55mpg), which is almost 20% lower than the equivalent 1.6-litre diesel powered version that’s almost €2,000 more expensive.

The Peugeot petrol engine range has a good

reputation for reliability, economy and low emissions. This 1.2 litre turbopetrol engine was economical to drive and over a shorter than usual test run, I found the car to be only about 16% off the officially rated economy figure.

That’s why you need to spend some time looking at your annual mileage use to clearly identify the value of moving from diesel to petrol power in a modern SUV such as the Peugeot 5008. Petrol cars will also have lower servicing costs due to longer service intervals. The cost decision will also need to factor in petrol and diesel price differences at the pump, to complete the equation.

Peugeot now offers a five-year warranty on the full range of cars and that too helps to ensure lower motoring costs.

range-topping Peugeot 5008, from

ing for Peugeot new vehicles and

the practical Partner van to the

used vehicles of all makes and mod-

load-lugging Boxer, we have a model

els, Bluebell Motor Company has a

that will suit every single custom-

fully stocked Parts Department for

er’s needs. Our quality is second-to-

genuine Peugeot parts and acces-

none and we’re so confident in our

sories sales and prides itself in being

line-up, we offer a five-year war-

a busy hub for Peugeot servicing,

ranty on all our Peugeot cars.

boasting an eight-bay workshop.

The company was set up in 1988

“Finally, our consumer offers have never been as attractive with

by Derek Sheppard and in 1991, they

scrappage offers of up to €4,500

were appointed to the Peugeot

allowance towards selected Peugeot

franchise Dealer Network. Today,

motors. We also have a very com-

the business is headed by son David

petitive finance package of between

Sheppard, who spoke to Dublin

0% and 4.9% APR and people are now

Gazette about the buoyant and

pre-ordering for our 182 models.”

exciting motor industry in Ireland.

“We are very accessible to people

“We have a very loyal customer base, with people returning to

on the Naas Road, Clondalkin, Bal-

service or update their cars on a

lyfermot, Walkinstown, Crumlin

regular basis. I know that is down to

and indeed all of west Dublin, where

the people and the team at Bluebell

we retail the expansive and indeed

Motor Company. I am very proud of

award-winning Peugeot car and van

our wonderful and loyal staff, whose

range, including the very popular

professionalism and attention to

current Peugeot 2008, 3008 and the

detail plays a crucial role in ensuring

new 5008 SUV models – everyone has

our customers get the best possible

gone SUV mad!

service at all times.”

“The stunning Peugeot 3008,

Emma Toner, Marketing Man-

awarded both European Car of the

ager of Peugeot said: “Peugeot has

Year just after its European launch

maintained its momentum in Q1 2018

and then subsequently crowned

as the fastest growing car brand in

Irish Car of the Year 2018, in associa-

Ireland, with its tremendous growth

tion with Continental, is our best-

in passenger car sales in the first

selling model this year. The new 5008

three months of 2018, recording a

7-seat SUV model, the big brother of

57.7% year to date increase, to the

the group, has room for three car

end of March. The lion-brand thus

seats in the second row, making it

remains the fastest growing car

the ideal model for families. On the

brand in Ireland in 2018, enjoying a

business side, our Partner, Expert

4.3% combined car and van market

and Boxer van sales are flying.

“Peugeot sales are excellent in 2018 and show no sign of slowing

For further info contact: Emma Toner Tel: 01-4092474 or Email: etoner@peugeot.ie Web: www.peugeot.ie

Strong performance for Peugeot in Irish new car market PEUGEOT recorded the strongest performance in the Irish new car market this January, as demand for the Peugeot range continues to soar. The lion brand saw a huge 71% increase in passenger car registrations for the first month of 2018.

The success comes on the back of demand for the Peugeot 2008 SUV, the Peugeot 3008 SUV, crowned Irish Car of the Year 2018 and the newly launched 5008 seven-seat SUV. The strong growth assured the Peugeot marque of a top ten place in the sales league and a 4.3% overall market share, cars and vans combined.

Colin Sheridan, sales and marketing director said: “Despite the slight contract in the new car market, we are delighted to report a growth of 71% in what is clearly the most important month of the year for new

vehicle sales. Indeed, it’s the strongest performance Peugeot has recorded in Ireland since the year 2007.

Our excellent SUV line-up, together with a five year warranty and attractive low-cost finance options across the range, plus attractive consumer offers across many Peugeot models has most certainly attracted conquest sales.”

“Thanks to a number of dealer appointments in the last 12 months and our ongoing network development plan, we’ve seen particular gains in the all-important Dublin new car market,” he said The growth has solidified Peugeot’s position as a top ten best-seller in the country, as the brand now looks forward to a number of further new product launches and dealer appointments in 2018.

David Sheppard, managing director of Bluebell Motor Company

30 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 26 April 2018

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32 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 26 April 2018

FEATURES HANDBALL, HURLING AND GAELIC FOOTBALL

‘Great craic’ getting to grips with GAA sports QUINN KANNER

AFTER watching a Gaelic football match, I decided to try to learn how to play some traditional Gaelic sports for myself and see if that would help me understand the games better.

So, alongside 11 other American students, I went to the Na Fianna GAA Club on a Saturday afternoon to learn how to play handball, hurling and Gaelic football from a session with Experience Gaelic Games.

That’s a company that allows visitors to experience Irish traditions like traditional sports and dancing.

They do programmes for various groups including visiting students like me, business groups, travelling sports teams and even hen and stag parties to try and expose the visitors to aspects of Irish culture and identity that you probably won’t hear about abroad.

I am a moderately athletic person even though I’ve never played any sports. I’ve been dancing since I was four years old, but I’m not used to working with props, i.e., the various balls.

The first sport we tried was Handball, which involved bouncing fistsized rubber balls off of walls.

I spent most of the warmups and drills chasing my ball around the room after failing to catch it on the bounce back.

I did accidentally win my first game playing with someone else.

It took me three tries to serve the ball (in my first two attempts, my hand missed the ball.), but then

A painting from the study of the matadors

Blending the intellectual with the creative in a unique, moving display

Learning to play hurling and handball (right) at Na Fianna GAA Club

the game was in play.

My serve bounced off the wall to my opponent who returned it. I flailed and accidentally made the perfect shot: the ball hit the wall just above the floor, making it impossible for my opponent to reach before it bounced twice.

After handball, we tried hurling, using special rubber hurleys to reduce the chance of injuries.

When it came to hurling, I couldn’t even get the “sliotar” as the ball is

h a n d .

Alas, I just sucked.

When it came time to actually play, I was quick to volunteer for goalie, since I couldn’t catch, pass or even pick up the sliotar.

My only success at hurling was a brilliant save in which I deflected the sliotar with my hurley, much to my surprise.

called off the ground.

I was so bad at the drills, the coach thought that I was accidentally playing with my non-dominant

After mostly failing at two sports, I was really hoping to have some natural talent for Gaelic Football.

“

I was so bad at the drills, the coach thought that I was accidentally playing with my non-dominant hand

JORDAN UPSHAW

I did not, but it was still the most fun for me to play.

Unburdened by bulky equipment and desperate for a win, I raced around the field attempting to prevent my opponents from keeping possession of the ball, while hoping to never end up with the ball myself.

I did have a fun wipe out while attempting to check a guy who was bigger than me. After my attack, the guy made an iffy pass causing my team to regain possession, which I’m taking credit for.

One success per sport makes a successful day in my book; it was “great craic”.

“Elsewhere, To Be Found”, a new exhibit by artist Colm Mac Athlaoich will be opening this Friday, April 27.

Mac Athlaoich has been exhibiting his artwork since 2007. His past exhibits have included “Travelling Without Moving” which was funded by the Fingal County Council. In 2016 he presented a series of oil on linen block paintings called “Pastille”. The “Monumental Activity Paintings” were created during a residency at the prestigious Royal Hibernian Academy, Dublin.

“Elsewhere, To Be Found” is an amalgamation of Mac Athlaoich’s work from the past two years. During this period of time, Mac Athlaoich used painting as a way to express his ideas and thought processes.

Mac Athlaoich’s paintings vary in scale and chronicle the emotional, mental and physical journeys he made across Ireland, Cyprus and Spain.

Mac Athlaoich was inspired by the writings of French philosopher Roland Barthes, which is quite unique for a painter.

“Elsewhere, To Be Found” attempts to blend the intellectual with the creative in a unique and moving display.

Both Barthes and Mac Athlaoich

focus on finding alternative ways of visualising the truth in addition to unmasking memories and experiences through their respective works.

The paintings are greatly influenced by the gorgeous Portuguese market tiles, focusing on the minute details found within the large designs. In this way they shine a light on the wear and tear caused by human activity.

A few paintings of note include Mac Athlaoich’s creative and emotional study of the matadors competing in violent bullfights. The artist himself witnessed this bloody sport in the famous Las Ventas bullring in the Spanish capital of Madrid.

Mac Athlaoich described it on Twitter as, “Like what R. Barthes says of wrestling in his ‘Mythologies’, as on the stage in antiquity, one is not ashamed of one’s suffering, one knows how to cry, one has a liking for tears’.

“The series of works that look at the Matador, questions this spectacle while depicting it as it is presented to us, with the drenching and vertical quality of a flood-lit Greek arena.

The exhibit is a free event taking place at The Cowshed Theatre, Farmleigh House every day from Friday, April 27 to Sunday, May 6.

Doors open at 10am and close at 5pm.

26 April 2018 WEST  DUBLIN GAZETTE 33

LIVERPOOL COMING TO TOWN P35

PETER KELLY RETIRES P38

THE BEST IN DUBLIN

SPORT

DECADECATHLON: IT’S all go for the inaugural Ballymun Running Festival – a community festival of running taking place on May 8-9 at Trinity Comprehensive Secondary School which was launched earlier this week at the Reco, Ballymun.

A key aim of the festival is to raise awareness of mental health issues and of the harmful effects of alcohol and drugs.

May is Mental Health Month and the event will be strictly drug and alcohol free.



GAZETTE

MUN RUN:

PAGE 34

LET DUBLIN GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS INFORM YOU OF THE HIGHLIGHTS AND SCORES OF YOUR FAVOURITE TEAMS HOCKEY | UCD ADD LEAGUE CROWN TO SENIOR CUP GLORY

Students in seventh EYHL heaven  STEPHEN FINDLATER

sfindlater@dublingazette.com

UCD powered to the EY Hockey League title in typically emphatic style, leaving nothing to chance with a thunderous 7-1 win at Ards.

It was a 15th win from their last 16 in the league and they have just one loss all season to date on the opening day of the season against second placed Cork Harlequins, their only loss in two regular league seasons.

Quins still had a mathematical chance of the title prior to the weekend but UCD quickly put such notions to bed and added the regular season title and a spot in Europe to the Irish Senior Cup won a fortnight ago.

Their next task will be a clean sweep when they contest the EY Champions Trophy in two weekends time at Grange Road.

“We will enjoy this but we have one more league game next week and want to finish strong and then take that on to the EY Champions Trophy finals,” UCD captain Deirdre Duke said afterwards.

“We are pretty proud of our record but it does bother us that we have that one loss [in the last two seasons] but that has driven us on and is testament to ho hungry we are for success. That loss at the beginning of the season spurred us on to where we are to today.”

They did so despite the absence of coach Miles Warren who remained in Dublin following the birth of his second child earlier in the week.

Nonetheless, any of his nerves would have been eased in the early Twitter updates. Mick McKinnon took on coaching duties.

It took less than eight minutes for Katie Mullan to put UCD in front and

CHAMPIONS: UCD are on course for a clean sweep of women’s hockey’s national titles with the Irish Senior Cup and EYHL already won. Picture: Adrian Boehm

six minutes later, Sara Twomey produced a great effort from the top of the circle for 2-0.

Abbie Russell made it three off the back of good build-up play by Mullan before the end of the first quarter.

Katherine Egan stretched the lead further to 4-0 before Chloe Brown pulled one back from a corner.

It was not the start of a remarkable comeback, however, with Emma Russell sending the ball in to her younger sister Abbie to convert for 5-1.

Lena Tice shot straight down the middle for number six and Mullan produced a typically powerful shot from the top for a magnificent seven.

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

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

34 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 26 April 2018

CLUB NOTES

ROUND

1

BALLYBODEN ST ENDA’S CONGRATS to our senior hurlers who overcame St Brigid’s in the second round of the championship with a scoreline of 2-19 to 1-12.

Well done to all involved in this weekend’s Feile.

Ballyboden St Enda’s hosted the Division 1 Group B to great success Hard luck to our Feile Division 1 Hurlers falling to Kilmacud Crokes in the semi-final.

Best of luck to our U-15 Aamd C footballers in their championship match.

Boden Ladies night this Friday night - dance the night away with the Beegees Tribute band.

Jiving class starts back in the clubhouse this Thursday, April 26 for six weeks from 8.3010.30pm with Jive Waltz and some line dancing.

Cost is €50 for the six weeks payable on the first night or €10 per night.

GARDA WESTMANSTOWN CHAMPIONSHIP action next weekend for both intermediates and juniors.

Inters first up on Saturday evening away at St Marks with a 6pm throw in while juniors host Ballyboughal on Sunday in Westmanstown at 3pm.

Minors had an excellent league win away to Craobh Chiarain on a scoreline of 4-16 to 2-13.

Next fixture at home to St Finbarrs on May 6. Ladies lost narrowly to Castleknock in a home cup match by 2-9 to 1-11.

Great effort by the U-14 boys at Feile last weekend in getting to the semi final but unfortunately lost out to a strong Craobh Chiarain side by 2-7 to 1-2. Well done to the players, coaches

and parents who made the weekend possible.U-16 girls made it five from five with a 2-5 to 0-5 win over O’Tooles at Westmanstown,U-12 hurlers had a one point win away at St Sylvesters,U12 Girls were away to Thomas Davis in Camogie and host Naomh Mearnog next weekend in football.

Well done to Ellie Haran who won the Rising Star award at the Dublin LGFA Skills School and to Zeta Hemeryck on her selection on the Dublin U-14 Panel.

Special mention to Cianna Hickey and the girls on the U-16 football team for organising a very successful fundraising ball at Westmanstown on Friday last. All turned out splendidly and great night.

RUNNING: BALLYMUN RUNNING FESTIVAL

Mun on the Run for mental health

Decadecathlon the centrepiece of the inaugural Ballymun runn ing festival as Trinity Comprehensive School hosts groundbreaking new initiative to highlight the importance of exercise for mental health  sport@dublingazette.com

IT’S all go for the inaugural Ballymun Running Festival – a community festival of running taking place on May 8-9 at Trinity Comprehensive Secondary School which was launched earlier this week at the Reco, Ballymun.

A key aim of the festival is to raise awareness of mental health issues and of the harmful effects of alcohol and drugs.

May is Mental Health Month and the event will be strictly drug and alcohol free.

The festival, which is free, also aims to get locals of all ages active; the theme is “The More you Move, the Better your Mood”.

The key feature of the 24-hour festival is a 100-mile run by Decadecathlon winner (10 Iron-

mans in ten days) Ger Prendergast, who runs the gym in the school, along with Ken “Coco” Coakley, a youth and community worker with the Ballymun Regional Youth Resource and a keen ultra runner.

Prendergast and Coakley will run a 500m loop around the school grounds between 12 noon on Tuesday May 8 and 12 noon on Wednesday May 9, with friends and other ultra runners keeping them company and providing support.

Other events taking place over the 24 hours including 5km, 10km, half marathon and marathon runs later on the first day and the annual “Mun Fun Run 5km” for all the Trinity CS students, their families and friends at 11am on the second day.

Live music will keep spirits high from 4-8pm on Tuesday

and also from 11am on Wednesday; also on offer is healthy food and a number of guest speakers, who may run a lap or two.

“

We will be running around in circles which is what we sometimes do in our heads when we have mental health issues

”

“Everyone can set their own target – for me and Ger, it’s a hundred miles, but for others it could be a 5km – that’s ten laps,”

ST MARK’S MEMBERSHIP is overdue, please pay ASAP. Congratulations to all our teams last weekend, great performances and some great wins.

Special mention to our U-14 Feile team who were narrowly beaten in the semi-final after putting in four great performances.

Well done to all involved.

All Juvenile section training has returned to date, contact the relevant mentors for info.

The adult section has returned to training, Tuesday and Thursdays.

Music every Saturday in the club. Music this Sat

by Tony Brophy. Live sport every weekend.

Set dancing classes every Monday from 8pm.

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

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

Weight Watchers every Tuesday morning.

Please continue to support the club lotto.

Tickets €2 each or three for €5, Jackpot €6,100 not won.

Numbers Drawn 7, 15, 20, 23. €50 winners 1. Amanda c/o Davy 2.

Amanda c/o Davy 3. Shay Carroll 4. Eileen Farrell c/o Bingo 5. Bruce Quinn 6.

Philip Coventry.

The Ballymun Running Festival will take place on May 8 and 9 in Trinity Comprehensive School.

Picture: Lindie Naughton

said Ken Coakley at the launch.

“We will all be running around in circles – which is what we sometimes do in our heads when we have mental health issues.

Our mind goes around in circles and we don’t know how to break out of it.”

Both Coakley and Prendergast believe firmly that an active life can help ward off mental health problems.

In Prendergast’s case, the issue is personal; his brotherin-law Michael took his own life a year ago after a long struggle with depression.

“I had tried to persuade him to come out and train with me before the Deca Decathlon, but he had never done anything like that in his life.

“After he died, I was full of guilt - what if I had tried harder?” he says.

Local organisations involved in the Ballymun Festival of Running include Ballymun Regional Youth Resource, Ballymun Local Drugs Task Force, and See Change – End Mental Health Stigma.

Supporting the festival is the local SuperValu, which will provide much of the healthy food over the 24 hours, the Poppintree Parkrun and Dublin City Council.

While entry to all runs is free, sponsorship cards for local charities are available.

Students from Trinity Comprehensive will help out on the day and participate in the various runs.

Cutting the ribbon to launch the Ballymun Festival of Running were Cheslea Byrne, who represents the Trinity Comprehensive students on the organising committee, Shauna O’Connor from See Change and Joe Campbell of Poppintree Parkrun, who has 200 parkruns to his credit.

O’Connor lit a Candle of Hope which will remain alight for the 24 hours of the festival.

26 April 2018 WEST  DUBLIN GAZETTE 35

STAR STRIKER: FORMER SHELS MAN PREVIEWS NAPOLI DATE

LEAGUE OF IRELAND SHOTS Bohs fall to champions

Liverpool legend Ian Rush at the launch of the English club’s game with Napoli later this summer. Picture: Sam Barnes/Sportsfile

Rush relishing Dublin return for Liverpool  DAVE DONNELLY

ANFIELD legend Ian Rush spent some time in Italy as a player with Juventus – so he has an idea of what to expect when Liverpool take on Napoli in Dublin this summer.

The Reds will be the major draw at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday, August 4, where there’s a real chance it’ll be the European champions facing off against Italy’s number one.

For Rush, who has for decades been dogged by a misquote attributed to him that “Italy is like a foreign country,” he has more reasons to be interested in the tie.

In the mid-eighties, when Rush was looking to try something new outside England, he had the opportunity to play alongside arguably the

greatest player of all time – but it fell through.

“My biggest regret is probably not getting the opportunity to play with Maradona,” Rush said at the launch in the Aviva.

“Napoli tried to sign me just after they signed Maradona in ‘84 and the chairman at the time, Sir John Smith, didn’t let me go.

“I was lucky enough to play against him but never got to play with him, unfortunately. To even be on the same pitch as him was absolutely incredible.

“He made such a big impact everywhere he went. When he went to Napoli they were just an average side and he then won the league for them.

“He also won the World Cup for Argentina so that in itself tells its own story.”

While Rush never had

the opportunity to play with arguably the greatest player ever to grace the beautiful game, he stood alongside his fair share of legends.

He partnered Stephen Geoghegan for Shelbourne in a one-off friendly in 1996 against Danish champions Brondby, scoring in a two-goal second half comeback.

At Liverpool, he formed a lethal strike combination with John Aldridge.

The Reds’ multiple league-winning squad was backboned with Irish p l aye rs l i ke Ro n n i e Whelan, Steve Heighway and Steve Staunton.

He played in the thenEuropean Cup in Ireland, in a 5-1 aggregate victory over Dundalk in which Whelan netted in both

legs.

At the time, Rush admits he didn’t fully understand the depth of admiration held by Irish fans for Liverpool as a

“

Any game in Ireland is a sell-out. It’s only when you retire you see how many passionate supporters are there.

”

club.

He continues to be astounded by the amount of support there is for the English side in Ireland – which is why it’s so important games like this take place.

“Any game in Ireland is a sell-out. I didn’t realise how big the support was.

When you’re playing, you just get on with it.

“It’s only when you retire and you go there as a spectator, you see how many passionate supporters there are and how many Irish players have played for Liverpool.

“We always used to play a pre-season in Ireland and it was a great support then, and it’s the same now.

It’s just got bigger.

That’s what it’s all about.

“At Liverpool, we see ourselves as a family club and everybody doesn’t get the chance to go over to Liverpool.

“What we’ve got to try and do is get first team players to come over here and entertain the supporters in Ireland.”

BOHEMIANS fell to a second defeat in a week as they were beaten 2-0 by the champions Cork City in front of the TV cameras at Dalymount Park on Friday night.

The Gypsies defied their status as part-timers as they dominated Bohs Kevin Devaney. Picture: Martin possession and Doherty chances in the game but were overcome by the nous and clinical finishing of the visitors.

Colm Horgan opened the scoring early on with a cross that ran all the way through to the net, before the league’s top scorer Graham Cummins sealed the win against the run of play in the second half.

“We’ve a pain in our backside coming out and saying how well we’ve played,” defender Ian Morris told the Dublin Gazette.

“It’s not going to matter in two weeks time when everyone looks at the results and the points on the board. You can play as well as you like, but if you’re not winning games it doesn’t mean anything.

“They sat in and we found them difficult to break down. We’re giving away silly goals at the back and we’re not scoring at the other end. That’s a combination you can’t have.

“It’s usually one or the other, but we’re having both. You can talk about how well we’ve played, but it’s a results business and we’re not putting points on the board.”

Seventh-place Bohs travel across the Liffey to face St Patrick’s Athletic at Richmond Park on Friday night where they’ll look to avenge their 1-0 defeat at Dalymount earlier in the season.

Shels magnificent seven washes over the Waves SHELBOURNE Ladies made it three wins on the bounce with an emphatic 7-0 demolition of UCD Waves amid all four seasons of weather at Jackson Park on Sunday afternoon.

The Students came into the game in good form of their own, unbeaten in their two games so far, but they weren’t given a sniff by the dominant visitors.

Leanne Kiernan scored a hat-trick, while Isibeal Atkinson scored two alongside goals from captain Noelle Murray and substitute Fiona Donnelly.

Shels led 2-0 at the break after playing into a strong wind but cut loose and added five after the break.

“The first half wasn’t the performance we wanted, but we showed character and played better second half,” Kiernan told the Dublin Gazette.

“We played football. Instead of hoofing it over the top, we got the ball down, passed it and played it quickly. Obviously we got five goals so it worked well.”

36 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 19 April 2018

CLUB NOTES

ROUND

2

LUCAN SARSFIELDS WHAT a weekend for hurling in the club; Division 1 Féile winners, Division 6 finalists well done to all involved with our U-14s, wins also for 15A 16B 13A+B hurling. Also, the senior and junior hurlers both recorded wins in Championship.

Solid weekend for camogie with wins for 14A and B, 16 Aand B, 13A, 15A and 15B were honours even with Kilmacud Crokes.

Senior 1 Camogie got their first win of the league during the week, 0-16 to 0-10, vs BSJ. Senior 7 lost out to Commericals’ first team.

Our Division 8 ladies football continued on their winning streak, making it three from three in the league vs a strong St. Finians (N) team.

On the juvenile side, great win for 15B away to Skerries, wins also for 13B and 14B, our 14A had a strong performance and victory vs Clontarf, while our 15A and 13A lost out to the same opposition.

Molly O’Toole Memorial Secondary Schools Tournament: the second tournament in Mollys memory will be run on Thursday, April 26.

Leopardstown Leaps: Lucan Sarsfields Race Day has been rescheduled for Sunday, May 13.

Limited number of tables still available. Free bus and Prosecco reception from the club.

Silver service meal and wine in Leopardstown.

Contact Joe 086 815 4635, Jim 086 238 7585 for tickets.

Golf society results from our first outing of the year in sunny Kilcock, Sat 21st Apr. Overall Winner Brian Aston (22) 40pts, 2nd Overall Jack Butler (15) 38pts, Category 1 Winner Seamus Fagan (13) 33pts bb9, Category 2 Winner Robbie Breen (18) 30pts, Category 3 Winner Mick Molloy (25) 33pts. Congratulations to all the winners. Next outing is Moyvalley Golf Club, Saturday, May 19. All welcome.

Looking for Rolling Stones tickets or tickets for All Ireland final? Well we know who you should talk to, the one and only Paul McGann. €20 gets you a whole load of opportunity.

There was no winner of the €20,000 lotto on the 19th April, the numbers were 4, 9, 14 and 24.

Next draw will be managed by Mary Flannery and is sponsored by Henley Forklift Group.

For the second week in a row, Josephine Donohue was in the house and was first out of the hat for the Lucky Dips so again €50 went to Josephine.

Other Lucky Dips winners who receive €30 were: Tony Doherty, The Thursday Night Gang, Pauline Leonard, Brendan Glover Snr. Play online or tickets can be purchased online, at the Club, in Carey’s Newsagents, in Vesey Arms or Kenny’s Bar. Club Shop is scheduled to open Thursdays 7:30pm-8:30 and Saturday’s 10:30am – 1:00pm.

25 Card Drive continues every Friday 9pm.

Caters for all levels, beginners welcome.

The ‘Cúpla Focal’ club is on Mondays 7:30pm to 9.00pm.

Bingo is on Wednesdays 8:30pm Lucan District Credit Union Academy is on Saturdays, 9:30am for Girls and 10am for boys (5+)

SOCCER: ELEVENTH SUCCESSIVE LEAGUE WIN FOR RED COW

Bluebell racing clear at top of the LSL LSL SUNDAY SENIOR

Bluebell United Greystones United  JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com

2 1

BLUEBELL UNITED took a another tentative step towards the Sunday Senior title on Sunday afternoon in Red Cow, as the homeside failed to truly excel, but came away with the win against Greystones United.

The last couple of seasons have seen the Leinster Senior League’s top tier go to dramatic conclusions, with St Mochta’s snatching last year’s title on goal difference after three teams went into the final day with a shout.

Bluebell won out the year before, grabbing the home draw they needed in a final match up with local rivals Crumlin United.

This year looks a done deal with six games to go, however, with Bluebell comfortably in charge since the mid-way stage and now ten points clear.

As expected, struggling Greystones were on the back foot from the off.

Much of Bluebell’s stronger play came down the wings, with Gary Seery and Sean Byrne respectively not afraid to run at the away side’s backline.

With Bluebell dominant, however, there was little serious threat to the Greystones goal in the opening half hour. A Shane Stritch free kick from just outside the area was straight down the middle.

The keeper snatched a couple of slightly overhit through balls from the feet of Bluebell’s front men, and a Seery cross bounced fortunately for the Greystones defence.

Just before half time, the breakthrough came. First, Seery cut in off the right wing, beating his man and battering the ball off the underside of the crossbar.

Seconds later, Tony Griffiths got on the end of a well-worked rebound and beat the Greystones ‘keeper’s left hand into the corner. Bluebell went in 1-0 up, and while they’d been the better side, it was a less than inspired half of football.

Griffiths had the first

decent effort of the second half, firing too close to the goalkeeper at pace from 25 yards, before Sean Byrne smashed the outside of the post from a similar position. Greystones hit back, though, out of the blue.

The ball fell to Dan Treanor on the bounce at the edge of box, and Andy McNulty in the Bluebell goal was unable to prevent his volley creeping in at the near post to equalise.

The game was still being played mostly in Grey-

stones end, however, and Byrne had another go on the hour, forcing a strong near-post save as he broke down the left, before Byrne and Griffiths combined in a quick-paced break, only to be bested by a quality short-range stop.

Greystones had a great chance to take the lead as former Everton man Gary Dempsey failed to convert a simple nod in at the back post with 15 minutes remaining.

McNulty, in the Bluebell goal, had had almost noth-

ing to do all afternoon, but nevertheless the league leaders looked less than inspired, yet their moment was to come.

Luke McWilliams let fly from 30 yards as the ball bounced clear of the Greystones defence, and saw his fiery finish with five minutes remaining clipped in off the inside of the post with the ‘keeper unmoved. Greystones had little left to give, though McNulty was forced into a sharp late save as the clock ticked down.

Get Rowing Get Going blitz

Anna Edghill, Ruth Campbell, Georgie Connoly-Carew and Kate Edgill from The Kings Hospital School. Picture: Bryan J Brophy

OVER 300 students from schools around the country took part in the Get Rowing Get Going Blitzit event at Grand Canal Dock.

The Get rowing get going programme and initiative aims to give students a new sport and pathway for life through rowing. In 2017, 25,000 women participated in the Get Going, Get Rowing programme.

The on-the-water blitz is a Girls only event to celebrate Women in Sport in Dublin City and around the country. The2018 programme began with Rowing Ireland bringing rowing machines

to the schools to conduct classes. Each school was provided with a fully trained community coach who worked with the students over a sixweek period. Schools were then given the option to get out on the water for a minimum of one session with Rowing Ireland coaches.

Get Going, Get Rowing started as a pilot scheme in Dublin City in March 2014. The programme is now in 14 centres across Ireland led by 17 community coaches. Waterways Ireland has been supporting the programme and Blitzit events for the past two years.

26 April 2018 WEST  DUBLIN GAZETTE 37

SOCCER: COLDCUT SIDE WIN WESTSIDE DERBY DATE

CLUB

KICKING ON: Bluebell United have gone 19 games unbeaten in LSL’s Sunday Senior division Picture: Deryck Vincent

INVINCIBLES

Collinstown win Major 1C with near perfect run COLLINSTOWN FC’s LSL Satuday Major 1C side were presented with their league trophy on Monday evening following a spectacular season.

They won 14 of their 15 ties played to date with just one left to play against Inchicore Athletic with the only blemish a 1-1 draw last Saturday against St Kevin’s Boys.

They got back on the horse straight away with a 3-2 win over Garda, putting them 13 points clear at the top.

Bus mow down Clover to reach FAI Senior tie FAI SENIOR CUP  DAVE DONNELLY

sport@dublingazette.com

DUBLIN Bus drove onto the first round proper of the FAI Cup with a dominant 4-2 victory over Firhouse Clover at Coldcut on Sunday morning.

Darren Sheridan’s side could have been preparing for an FAI Intermediate Cup final date with Clover next month had they not fallen at the last hurdle against Maynooth University Town last month.

The sides have had plenty of time to get acquainted in recent years, however, despite the Bus being a division below Senior Sunday side Firhouse.

The two teams met in the semi-final of last season’s Metropolitan Cup, a game the Clondalkin side won 3-0 on their way to lifting the trophy at the end of last season.

So Firhouse may have had revenge in their crosshairs when they made the short trip across west Dublin, only to find themselves outplayed by a motivated Bus side.

The home side took the lead within four minutes as Yuta Sasaki stunned the high-flying Clover with a header that beat keeper Ian Molloy all ends up.

It was 2-0 just past the half hour when a strong run from captain Wayne Byrne saw the defender square for Colm Dunne, who showed good composure to slot the ball home.

Dublin Bus are looking forward to a potentially lucrative FAI Senior Cup tie

And three minutes later the game was put beyond doubt when Sasaki bagged his second of the game after he charged down Molloy’s clearance and tapped into an empty net.

It was to get better for the Bus as winger Paul McMahon slotted home number four to leave the Intermediate Cup finalists stunned.

To Clover’s credit, Keith Baker’s side rallied in the final 20 minutes and they pulled one back through striker Nika Arevadze just a minute later.

Mikey Doyle added a second in injury time as Firhouse finished with a flourish but there was never any chance of them forcing their way back into a game they’d trailed in since the opening minutes.

Fi r h o u s e w i l l n ow l o o k ahead to an Aviva Stadium date with Maynooth Town on Saturday, May 12th while Bus can begin to dream of a glamour draw when the first round draw is made in July.

Elsewhere in west Dublin, Sunday Senior IB side Kilnamanagh AFC lost out to Skerries Town in their home tie at Ned Kelly Park.

Rice and Harper in Irish U-18 squad U-18 BASKETBALL  sport@dublingazette.com

DUBLIN Lions Oisin Rice and Templeogue BC’s Matt Harper – have been named in the Irish Under18 men’s basketball team by head coach, Paul Kelleher.

The team is busy preparing for FIBA U18 Men’s European Championship Division C this summer, which will take place in Pristina in Kosovo from

July 22nd to 29th, 2018.

Speaking about the selection, coach Kelleher stated: “Over the 12 years I have been involved in international basketball, selecting players for any phase of a program, never mind the final 12, is the hardest and most disliked position to be in as a coach.

“We have continuously extended the decision over the last number of months because of the

difficulty of the decision - it can be quite emotional and the thought of telling any player they haven’t made a selection still keeps me awake at night.

“We have played a number of games in recent weeks, experimenting on different line-ups, different defensive formations, to decide which 12 works best and we believe this is the 12 that will help us get promoted back to Irish Under-18 coach Paul Kelleher Division B basketball.”

38 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 26 April 2018

ROUND

CLUB NOTES

3

ROUND TOWER, CLONDALKIN CONGRATULATIONS to our U-14 hurlers who won their Division 5 Hurling Féile with a 3-9 to 1-3 win over Fingal Gaels in Parnell Park on Sunday morning.

In the group stages they’d a clean sweep against St Mark’s, Clanna Gael Fonetnoy, Clontarf and Na Fianna in the semi finals.

At adult level, our senior hurlers were defeated by a point in their Championship group against St Oliver Plunkett’s and our Junior Hurlers beat Realt Dearg in their Championship clash. Our minor footballers defeated Ballyboden St Enda’s in the league.

A few places remain for anyone wishing to participate in our Senior Footballers Golf Classic in Citywest on Saturday, May 5. €200 for a team of four.

Contact Mick 087 0518217, Niall 086 0444356 or Eoghan at 083 3551830.

Adult camogie players are wanted for the upcoming campaign. If you can play, contact Brian at 087 9852846.

Android Phone Users are invited to download our new club app. Pop into your app store and do a simple ‘Round Tower’ search.

Round Tower Lotto (April 16). Jackpot €3,000. Numbers drawn 1,9,18,20 bonus ball 30. No Jackpot Winner and no bonus ball winner. 3 x €100 winners: Linda Bond, Kay O’Byrne, Ian McGowan. Thanks to all who participated.

Bingo continues every Tuesday in the club, with first call at 8.30pm and a jackpot of €1,000 on offer if checked within 47 numbers. All welcome.

Commercials celebrate their success as they won the Dublin hurling Feile na naGael Division 3 title in Parnell Park last Sunday

ST MARY’S THE seniors play championship on Saturday at 6pm against Thomas Davis in Newcastle.

Juniors play their first Championship match against St Judes on Sunday 11am in Tymon Park.

Well done to our U16 Ladies who beat Clontarf.

Congratulations to Commercials on winning their division in the Feile na Gael over the weekend. A great achievement!

St Marys and Commercials will hold the Lyp Sync Together Launch in St Marys clubhouse on Friday, April 27 at 8pm.

A night not to be missed with all acts and songs being revealed. The actual event is taking place in Citywest Hotel on Friday, May 25 2018.

Membership for 2018 is now overdue.

Rates are Adult Player €130, 3rd Level Student Player/Non-Playing/Associate €70, Juvenile €50, Senior Citizen €20, Family Membership €175.

Membership can be paid on-line or by clicking on the Blue “Shop Now” button on the Facebook Page.

A reminder from Eileen Coyne about Club Shop Opening Hours, Wednesdays/ Thursdays 7.30pm to 8pm, Saturdays 10.30am to 11.30am or contact Eileen on 086 1684766.

The Monthly Whist takes place on Thursday at 830pm in the club lounge.

New players always welcome.

Lotto numbers were 2, 12, 13 and 24.

There was no winner so next week’s jackpot remains capped at €8,000 with a €3,000 Roll-over.

There were two Match 3 winners of €200 each, Gavin Rankin Corbally Park, Citywest and Con Hurley, Dublin 8 (C/O Ceili).

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

You can now follow the LocalLotto link on our Facebook page and website to play Lotto online.

HURLING: MURPHY PAYS TRIBUTE TO SARS HERO

Lucan’s All-Star Kelly calls time on county career  JAMES HENDICOTT

sport@dublingazette.com

LU C A N S a rs f i e l d s hurler Peter Kelly has announced his retirement from the Dublin panel at the age of just 29, citing the longevity of his club career with Sarsfields as his primary reason.

Kelly was a part of Anthony Daly’s 2013 Leinster title winning Dublin side, one of three Dublin players to make All Star that year as a result.

He had been in and out of the panel under Ger Cunningham and Pat Gilroy over the past year or so. Gilroy had recalled Kelly over recent months but he hadn’t made the field in sky blue in 2018, due to a knee injury.

In announc ing his decision to put aside county commitments, Kelly posted on social media on Sunday: “I would like to announce I am stepping away from the Dublin hurling team.

“I have loved every minute of wearing the

Dublin jersey. It’s been a great honour to wear the blue jersey for so many years and play alongside a great bunch of lads.For the longevity of my club career, this is the right choice for me.

“I also want to thank Pat for the opportunity this year, and wish the team the best of luck for the year ahead.”

Sarsfields look very likely to progress from their Dublin Senior A Championship Group 4, having played two games of the three this month.

The Lucan men saw off Crumlin by a score of 1-25 to 1-12, and followed up with another emphatic win over Ballinteer St John, 0-23 to 1-12.

They have Setanta still to play, but are heavy odds on to progress to the last eight.

Sarsfields club chairm a n B e n M u r p hy released a statement on behalf of the club on Kelly’s retirement, saying: “On behalf of Lucan Sarsfields GAA Club, we would like to offer Peter Kelly our support follow-

GET BREATHLESS McMahon togs out for COPD DUBLIN football star Philly McMahon togged out for the launch of COPD Support Ireland’s annual ‘Get Breathless for COPD’ Dublin Cycle.

The cycle runs from Lansdowne Road to Howth, aiming to raise awareness and funds for COPD. There is a 50km route and a 100km route which takes the riders to Wicklow and back.

Find out more at www.copd.ie, on Facebook @COPDSupportIreland or on Twitter @COPDSupportIre.

Peter Kelly in Dublin Under-21 action back in 2009 as he made early waves for the county. Picture: XXXX YYYY

ing his decision to retire from Dublin.”

“As our only All Star, the club has always been immensely proud of Peter and what he has achieved with Dublin.

“We are sure it was a tough decision for Peter but one he has to take for

himself, and if it allows him to play for longer we will see the benefits.

He is a great asset to our club.

“Only this week Peter was at Under-14 hurling training offering support and encouragement to our Féile teams.”

26 April 2018 WEST  DUBLIN GAZETTE 39

CAMOGIE

FOOTBALL: BODEN UNDONE BY TOWERS GOAL RUSH

Premier run ends at semi stage

Round Tower’s minors proved far too strong for Ballyboden St Enda’s in MFL Division 3

Seventh heaven for Towers minor crew MFL DIVISION 3

Round Tower Ballyboden St Enda’s  MICK MCGLYNN sfindlater@dublingazette.com

7-21 2-6

ROUND Tower’s minor footballers emphatically returned to winning ways in the league with a comprehensive defeat of Ballyboden St Enda’s This Towers team possess great pace in the inside forward line and an instinct for goal that was evident throughout. Seven goals were registered and other chances were created in a dominant display.

Sean Casey hand-passed to enable Jack Halpin to register the first point within a minute of throw-in and the former kicked the second with the next play.

Boden were level on six minutes

but the first of the Towers goals duly arrived. Joey Leech, who had just been denied by a point-blank save by the visiting keeper, carried and played across to Casey.

He turned and released Lee Moran in on goal to side-foot home. The second major soon followed.

Alex O’Neill won the kick-out and played in Casey.

He quickly carried in on goal before striking low to the net. O’Neill flashed another goal chance past the keepers left before the third arrived on the tenminute mark.

Liam O’Connor fielded around the middle and charged into space. He flicked it to Casey and he again struck low to net his second. It was all about goals.

On 15 minutes, a fourth had been netted. O’Neill, Halpin and Leech were

involved in the build up. Leech strike looked to have skewed wide but Andrew Rigany did brilliantly to retrieve and cut in from the right to finish from an angle.

Towers resorted back to kicking points. O’Connor cut in from the left to slot over and Rigany registered from the right. Boden palmed to the net and registered two points on the trot to reduce the gap.

But O’Connor, Moran, Rigany and Casey combined brilliantly to tee up a Halpin point.

Leech kicked with the right and centre-half-back Matthew Kelly broke forward to point. Leech and Casey combined for the latter to score and a fifth goal arrived just before the break.

A kick-out broke to Moran and he broke at pace from the left and struck a low finish across the keeper. It left Towers well in command at the interval

with a 5-8 to 1-4 advantage.

Effectively killing off the tie, the home side started the second half in the ascendancy. O’Neill kicked a point within a minute of the restart and then followed it up with a free.

Boden struck a goal but the Towers response was emphatic. Leech kicked a point before a Rigany pass across goal found its way to Moran and he buried past the keeper.

With the next play Rigany netted again. Leech and Casey combined and the keeper managed to palm the goal bound effort away but the corner forward stroked it soccer-style to the net.

Moran kicked another and Jack Halpin carried from the middle at pace before striking over with his right. He followed it up with another great point.

Leech added another and the final two points were registered by O’Neill.

THE DUBLIN junior premier side’s run in the Littlewoods Division 2 came to an end as Westmeath repeated their win from last year’s All Ireland Final in a 3-9 to 1-6 score.

A yellow card either side of half time for Niamh Gleeson saw Dublin reduced to 14 which didn’t help their cause. And neither did three Westmeath penalties.

Mairead McCormack opened the scoring for Westmeath early as they piled a massive amount of pressure from the throw in.

The first penalty came in the fourth minute when Ciaran Buchannan brought down Sheila McGrath which Kathryn Kantounia saved but it set a tone, though, and Pamela Greville soon added a goal in the 12th minute.

Dublin did reply in kind with Caragh Dawson laying on a pass for Aoife Dooley to fire home but it was their only score of the first half.

With the wind in the second half, Aoibhe Dillon did get a couple back for Dublin but they remained 12 points behind going into the closing 10 minutes. Ciara Carolan and Aoife Moiloy saw them finish strong but it was too much to make-up.

GazetteSPORT APRIL 26 - MAY 2, 2018

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

BELL RINGING UP THE WINS SOCCER: Bluebell

closing in on Leinster Senior League Sunday Senior crown, building a 10-point lead over their rivals SEE P36

STEPPING DOWN HURLING: Peter Kelly calls time on intercounty career with view to lengthening club life SEE P38

MUN ON THE RUN RUNNING: Trinity Comprehensive School to host unique 100-mile event at the Ballymun Running Festival to raise mental health awareness SEE P34

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Sars hurling on a roll on Feile and senior fronts  sport@dublingazette.com

LUCAN Sarsfields enjoyed yet more Feile glory last Sunday in Parnell Park as they landed the Dublin A hurling crown with an excellent 2-8 to 1-3 win over Kilmacud Crokes.

It was their second hurling Feile victory in the last three years, coming off the back of an excellent weekend of action around the county. They opened up their campaign with a confident 3-11 to 0-5 victory over 2017 champs Na Fianna and backed that up with a monster 2-22 to 0-1 win over Naomh Barrog.

Those results were enough to put them in the frame for a semi-final berth despite a 0-9 to 1-3 defeat at the hands of Ballyboden St Enda’s as they still topped the group on points difference.

A semi-final against Castleknock’s A team was negotiated on Saturday evening at Cuala with another big score, 4-12 to 0-7, putting them through to the decider against Kilmacud.

It meant a big day out at the county’s Parnell Park home with the national anthem laying the scene for battle. Sars started in aggressive fashion, making most of the early inroads with Joseph Dunne hitting his mark on numerous occasions – he ended up with 0-7 to this name – with his first three helping build a four-point lead.

That advantage was swiftly wiped out by a Tom Doran point to open Kilmacud’s account before

The Lucan Sarsfields Under-14 A Feile side

Danny Killeen rocketed home a goal. It remained all square going into halftime at 1-2 to 0-5 but Lucan were to find their dominant form once more in the second half.

Dunne kept chipping away but the key moment came just two minutes after the turnaround with Alex Hickey scoring the first Lucan goal. Dunne’s trio of frees advanced the lead out to 1-8 to 1-3.

And the game was put to bed when Conor

Hylands kicked in Lucan’s second goal, bringing the title back to the 12th Lock.

The club’s B team, meanwhile, also made it through to their divisional final, bursting through the group stages and the semi-finals on Saturday, recording healthy wins over Naomh Barrog, Trinity Gaels and Castleknock.

It set up a final date with Round Tower, Lusk in Tallaght Stadium. The Lusk side, however, were in dominant form through-

out the competition, running up goals for fun.

Despite points from Ross Campion and Darragh Lyons and a Ronan McGrath goal keeping Lucan in the hunt, the Fingal side eventually pulled away in the second half and recorded a 6-11 to 1-2 result.

Elsewhere, in the Dublin senior A hurling championship, Ciaran Dowling was the scoring hero for Lucan Sarsfields as they defeated Ballinteer

St John’s 0-23 to 1-12 in Group 4 clash at O’Toole Park.

Dowling, a Dublin minor hurler in 2015 and 16, scored 0-12 overall while Lucan led 0-11 to 0-7 at the interval after the sides had been level on four occasions during the opening half.

Sars had extended their advantage to six points before Tom Aherne’s goal brought St John’s right back into contention.

But Lucan had enough

about them to run out eight-point winners with their keeper Aidan Roche making one fine save to deny Sean Lane.

It was their second win from two outings, putting them at the head of their group with a win over Setanta in their final outing assuring them of a quarter-final spot.

Should they lose, they are still in decent shape to go through with a healthy points difference in their favour.