Dublin Gazette: West Edition

DublinGazette MAY 23-29, 2019

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THE LATEST NEWS & SPORT FROM SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL AREA

Agony for families as miracle drug delayed PADRAIG CONLON LOCAL TD John Curran made an impassioned plea for Health Minister Simon Harris to urgently authorise a life changing drug for local children who badly need it.

He made his appeal in the Dail for the drug Spinraza to be provided for treatment of

Spinal Muscular Atrophy, a muscle-deteriorating disease which affects 26 children in Ireland.

Two of those young people, Glen McHugh Farrelly and Sam Bailey, live locally in Clondalkin and Rathcoole. Spinraza is clinically effective and has been proven to work by slowing down the muscle wastage and in

many cases allowing muscle strengthening.

It is an orphan drug, which means it is commercially underdeveloped and very expensive. The reason the HSE have given for not approving Spinraza, which would cost in excess of €20 million over five years, is because they do not deem it to be cost effecCONTINUED ON PAGE 2 tive.

Wait for swimming pool finally at an end

Following four decades of broken promises and false dawns Lucan is finally getting a swimming pool.

The turning of the ceremonial sod on the pool site last Monday was a welcome sight to many residents who had campaigned tirelessly for a swimming pool.

SEE PAGE 3

2 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 23 May 2019

PICK UP

CALL TO URGENTLY AUTHORISE A LIFE CHANGING DRUG

Curran makes impassioned EVERY THURSDAY! plea for children with SMA

DublinGazette WEST EDITION

at the following locations: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Eurospar - Ballyowen Gala - Rossefayre Centra - Foxborough Centra - Griffeen Topaz Maxol Centra - Lynch’s The Food Centre Spar - Finnstown Lucan Library SuperValu - Lucan Tesco - Hillcrest Spar - Dodsboro Lucan Golf Club SuperValu - Celbridge Tesco - Celbridge Courtyard Hotel Leixlip • SuperValu Leixlip • Clarion Hotel • Neilstown Newsagents • Freynes Chemist Clondalkin • Round Towers GAA Club • Ballyfermot Leisure Centre • Westmanstown • Eurasia Supermarket Fonthill • Marks & Spencer Liffey Valley • B&Q - Liffey Valley • SuperValu - Palmerstown • The Mill Centre • Tesco - Clondalkin • South Dublin County Council • Tallaght Hospital • Tesco - The Square Tallaght • Leisureplex - Tallaght • B&Q - Tallaght • Supervalu Firhouse • Tesco - Liffey Valley • Credit Union Clondalkin Main St • Scientology - Firhouse • Citywest Shopping Centre - (Underground Carpark)

For further information

www.dublingazette.com

01 60 10 240

FROM PAGE 1

Ireland and Estonia are the only two countries in the EU who refused to approve access to the drug – the UK approved it recently.

Addressing Minister Simon Harris across the Dail Chamber, Deputy Curran said: “Sam and Glen are two boys who live in my constituency. Both of them suffer from spinal muscular atrophy.

“It is heartbreaking to see because their condition is deteriorating and there is a drug, Spinraza, which would assist them.

“The Taoiseach said earlier that a decision on this had been due and that urgent priority had been given to the matter.

Spinraza is clinically effective and has been proven to work

“These families were living in that hope at Christmas when exactly the same words were spoken about the matter being

given urgent priority, an assessment being under way and so forth.

“Almost six months later, the issue has not been

resolved.

“I have raised this with the Minister before, and the Taoiseach has responded to similar questioning.

“He specifically said he was acting in accordance with the legislation, namely, the Health (Pricing and Supply of Medical Goods) Act. “If this legislation is impeding us in dealing with this matter, we need to amend and change it.

“It is not tolerable or fair that the only country in Europe in which these children cannot receive this medication is Ireland.

“We will work with the Minister to change the legislation but these families are holding on week by week, meeting by meeting.

“As I said, at Christmas there was a real expectation that this would be dealt with, and that has not occurred.

“I therefore appeal to the Minister, if he must work within the legislation and if the legislation is the obstacle, to change it.”

In response Minister Harris said: “I acknowledge that it is a time of huge anxiety for the families affected. I spoke directly to the Director General of the HSE yesterday to inquire where this is at.

“My understanding is that a decision will be delivered shortly. We are genuinely making progress.

“I don’t want to say anymore that could jeopardise the situation but there is a new offering from the company, you are aware of that, the HSE need to assess that.

“I would just make the point that it takes two to close a deal, but I really want this to be resolved quickly and the HSE are aware of our collective views on this.”

RATHFARNHAM

Most ambitious project yet for charity

CALCUTTA Connect is a charity based in Rathfarnham which supports the education of children and young people from some of the most underprivileged communities in Kolkata (formerly Calcutta), India.

Founded in 2010 by past pupils of a school immersion project from Colaiste Eanna CBS in Rathfarnham, Calcutta Connect works in partnership with local educational organisations, provides sponsorships to students in the latter stages of their secondary education and those who have progressed to third level of their studies.

As t h ey a p p ro a c h their tenth year they are embarking on their most ambitious project to date, where they plan to build a new school in a marginalised rural community approximately 60km outside of Kolkata.

Over the past two years student numbers in the school have increased from 110 to 247 and the building has become unfit for purpose due to lack of space and crowding inside affecting the learning outcomes of the students.

Together with their local partner Panikhali Rural Development Society, Calcutta Connect plan to redevelop the school which is presently a basic structure made from bamboo, wooden fence walls, thatched straw roof and a mud floor.

Brian Kelly, chief executive of Calcutta Connect said: “We are appealing to anyone who would like to make a lasting impression and greatly improve the educational outcomes for children and young people from a marginalised community to get in contact with us. “ To f i n d o u t m o re about the project visit https://calcuttaconnect. ie/building/.”

23 May 2019 WEST  DUBLIN GAZETTE 3

LUCAN: RESIDENTS DELIGHTED AFTER CAMPAIGNING TIRELESSLY FOR YEARS

FASTNews All for rent apartments plan blasted

ROBERT Dowds, Labour local election candidate in Clondalkin, said he is “seriously disturbed” at the plan to build 1,009 all for rent apartments on the site of the old CB Packaging Site behind Dunne’s Stores in Clondalkin.

Dowds shared his fears about long-term effects on the local area.

“By intending to have all the apartments open to the rental sector only, it won’t lead to the development of a sense of community,” he said.

“Clearly, many renters look after their rented property well but, regretfully, some don’t. In addition, many of them don’t stay very long.

“With the plan for all these apartments to be rented, it won’t help to develop a strong sense of community.

“As we have a housing crisis and that I support the efforts to tackle it, I greatly regret that I will have to oppose this plan at An Bord Pleanala until it is radically improved.”

Call to release 2019 funds LOCAL Councillor Francis Timmons says he is calling on Minister for Housing Eoghan Murphy to release funds for Rebuilding Ireland for South Dublin County Council (SDCC) in 2019.

“We are now near the end of May and so far the €15m released was for the loans approved in 2018,” Cllr Timmons told Dublin Gazette.

“SDCC are still awaiting the allocation for 2019. Once the allocation is received SDCC will be in a position to notify all applications on hand of their loan approval or refusal.

“There are many anxiously awaiting allocation of these funds, they are desperate to get their forever home.

“I have been outspoken and critical of Rebuilding Ireland as I believe it’s failing the most vulnerable, but in regards to loans for people hoping to buy a home this must be done without delay.

“I am asking the Minister for Housing to stand up and ensure that some families are housed through this loan.’’

Long wait for swimming pool finally at an end PADRAIG CONLON

FOLLOWING four decades of broken promises and false dawns Lucan is finally getting a swimming pool.

The turning of the ceremonial sod on the pool site last Monday was a welcome sight to many residents who had campaigned tirelessly for a swimming pool.

Helen Farrell and Sandra Whelan are two such locals who never gave up.

Helen established a ‘Lobby for a Public Swimming Pool for Lucan’ campaign in 2014, which has received massive support in the community over the past five years.

Assisted by Sandra the campaign collected 20,000 petition signatures as well as much cross party support.

The non-political group repeatedly called on the council to prioritise

development of a pool in Griffeen Valley Park.

Last Friday Helen was present when Minister Shane Ross signed the Ministerial Approval for the Lucan swimming pool.

Speaking following the signing, Helen said: “Cllr Liona OToole has pursued the signing of the documents all this week and Guss O’Connell also was there with us.

“It was a huge pity Sandra Whelan, my cocampaigner wasn’t free because she was so pivotal to the campaign, but we will have other chances to celebrate this success for Lucan.”

Cllr Liona O Toole told Dublin Gazette of her joy at the project finally getting the green light.

“I was delighted in my role as a local councillor to support Helen and Sandra in their ‘pool4lucan’ campaign and to bring Helen to

meet the Minister Shane Ross as he signed the final document,” she said.

“I met both Helen and Sandra five years ago when the campaign was initiated, and I recognised the importance of a resident led campaign as I had been involved in similar campaigns myself prior to being an elected representative.

“I now look forward to continuing to work on the swimming pool project ensuring that the process runs efficiently and smoothly.”

Minister Shane Ross said: “Liona has been consistently involved in pursuing my department in regard to Lucan Swimming pool.

“She also recognised the importance of community involvement and brought to ‘pool4Lucan’ campaign to my attention.

“Liona along with Cllr Guss O’Connell arranged

for Helen Farrell to meet with me and witnessed signing the final document.

“I wish the people of Lucan the very best of luck with this long-awaited facility.

“I look forward to continue working with Liona and Guss going forward.”

South Dublin County Council chief executive Daniel McLoughlin outlined the facilities that will be available in the new €13 million public swimming pool building including a 25 metre long, six lane, 13 metre wide pool, as well as a 13 metre long, eight metre wide, multiuse pool.

“The new facility will also include a gymnasium

Minister Shane Ross signs the Ministerial Approval for the Lucan swimming pool

and fitness suites, changing facilities, cafeteria and associated accommodation, with car parking to allow for 107 car parking spaces including six accessible parking spaces and 78 bicycle parking spaces,” he told Dublin Gazette.

PJ McLoughlin and Sons Limited, who have been awarded the contract for the construction of Lucan Swimming Pool said “the building will follow the Nearly Zero Energy Building directive (EPBD) in

pursuing the highest level of energy conservation, both in design and running costs.”

It is envisaged that construction works for the project will take 20 months to complete.

The development will be funded by a grant of €3.8 million from the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport.

South Dublin County Council will contribute €9.8 million to the capital cost.

4 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 23 May 2019

APPEAL: CALL ON THE HEALTH MINISTER SIMON HARRIS TO INTERVENE IN CASE

‘Services for anorexia sufferers a disgrace’ PADRAIG CONLON

A COUNCILLOR has blasted the HSE and Minister for Health over a case involving a local woman with anorexia.

Independents4Change Councillor Ruth Nolan says she is appealing to Simon Harris to intervene and make services available to a young woman who is seriously ill and desperately in need of help.

“What is happening with regards to free services for people suffering from anorexia in the local area is a national disgrace and needs to be highlighted,” Cllr Nolan told Dublin Gazette.

“I was contacted by a mother of a young girl who is at home and suffering from anorexia.

“Her daughter was in a facility in Cherry Orchard receiving treatment, but upon turning 18 some months ago she was discharged.

“She then went to Ballyfermot Health Centre, the only available facility in her area, but it doesn’t have a psychiatrist who specialises in anorexia and also doesn’t have a dietician which is an absolute necessity.

“The only other place in the area which could help her is St Vincent’s in Elm Park, but because she isn’t from the catchment area she would have to pay and as she can’t afford to pay she is at home.

“Her weight is getting dangerously low and all her poor mother can do is sit and watch, basically unable to do anything to help her daughter.

“It is not acceptable that there’s only one specialist facility in Dublin which treats patients with anorexia, this is an outrage.

“This is a nightmare for patients with anorexia and their families and the public should be aware of the

shocking, appalling lack of services.

“I am appealing to both the HSE and Minister Simon Harris to intervene and make services available right away.”

Dublin Gazette contacted the HSE about availability of free services for people suffering from anorexia in the area.

A spokesperson told us: “HSE Dublin South, Kildare & West Wicklow Community Healthcare would advise anyone with a health concern to contact their local General Practitioner (GP) in the first instance, as their GP will be able to refer the person to the necessary services they require.

“If a person is seriously ill and requires emergency care, the HSE would recommend that the person present to their Accident and Emergency Unit in their local hospital.

“The Model of Care for Eating Disorders was

“

Independents4Change Councillor Ruth Nolan

launched in 2018 and development posts have been allocated to both Child & Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) and Adult Mental Health Services to develop the programme.

“HSE CAMHS has been approved posts to provide a community based treatment service for patients and beds are provided in the Linn Dara Inpatient Unit based in Cherry Orchard.

“This is to provide services on a regional basis.

“With regard to adults,

All her poor mother can do is sit and watch, basically unable to do anything to help her daughter HSE Community Healthcare East have been allocated posts to provide beds and community services on behalf of Dublin South, Kildare & West Wicklow Community Healthcare and that service is currently

developing with a view to rolling out regionally in the future.

“Accordingly, all such cases are dealt with in the local Community Adult Mental Health Team. “ If t h i s p e rs o n i s already attending the

Ballyfermot Community Mental Health Team, the HSE would encourage them to contact their treating consultant.

“All such cases are dealt with in the local Community Adult Mental Health Team, in this case, should the treating consultant feel that their needs exceed the capacity of routine services in the community, a referral can be made through the Clinical Director for access to specialist mental health services should it be required.”

Intel get approval for largest private investment in Ireland’s history INTEL have gotten the green light for its planned €3.53bn fabrication facility at their Leixlip plant.

Kildare County Council have given the US tech giant permission to proceed with their plan despite some objections.

Once the proposed “fab” is completed, (which will take four years to build) Intel will have to add up to 1,600 extra staff to the Leixlip campus which already employs 4,500.

An extra 6,000 construction roles will also be needed to be filled at the peak of building.

The granting of the 10-year permission to Intel is set to net Kildare County Council €9.72 million in development contributions towards public infrastructure.

This is due to the size of Intel’s proposal and is one of 34 conditions attached to the permission.

The planning permission comes three years after Intel secured planning permission for another expansion.

The project will be the largest private investment in Ireland’s history if it goes ahead.

Kildare County Council say it is following the Government’s Project Ireland 2040 National Planning

Framework by granting permission; however their decision is almost certain to be appealed to An Bord Pleanála by at least two objectors well known to Intel.

Local farmer Thomas Reid, who has already submitted six objections to Intel plans since 2012, unsuccessfully objected to the first phase of the expansion plans in 2017.

In 2015 however he was successful in his fight with the IDA when the Supreme Court found that the IDA making a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) for Reid’s 72-acre farm beside the Intel campus had been in excess of their powers.

Another objector is likely to be high profile planning activist Peter Sweetman who has argued that it is not possible to give the go-ahead to the new fab without specific details of the grid connection to serve the new facility.

He wrote to the council last month to say that he would be appealing any decision to grant planning to the appeals board or to the High Court.

Mr Sweetman also said he would be appealing after claiming the council excluded him from participating in the Environmental Impact and Habitats Assessment process.

23 May 2019 WEST  DUBLIN GAZETTE 5

SUPPORT SERVICES: SPREADING AWARENESS

Child and Family Support Week Lucan Tusla’s Miriam Schweigard and Grainne Finnegan pictured at the Information Stand in Lucan Shopping Centre

Tusla showcases services with local support week

PADRAIG CONLON

TUSLA National Child and Family Support Week, which celebrates support services available to parents, children and young people, took place last week with several successful local events.

Centres in Clondalkin and Ballyfermot played host to teams from Tusla’s Prevention, Partnership and Family Support [PPFS] Programme who spoke with local parents and staff about the supports available in their area.

In addition to attending these community events, Tusla support workers also met the public at information stands in Lucan Shopping Centre and Jervis Shopping Centre throughout the week.

The team also visited St Matthew’s

Family Resource Centre on Friday to take part in the monthly Coffee Morning hosted by staff at the centre on Drumfinn Park.

The event was attended by local parents as well as Child and Family Network Coordinators Grainne Finnegan and Miriam Schweigard.

Speaking following the conclusion of National Child and Family Support Week last Friday (17th), Gráinne Finnegan was happy with the local community’s interaction with Tusla.

“There has been an unbelievable response from the public across Dublin all week,” she said.

“It has been hugely beneficial for us to be able to meet so many parents and offer advice and information about services and supports that they may not be aware of.

“We have been able to spread the

word about the Meitheal process, family support service as well as groups and classes taking place right here in the community.”

As part of the week-long awareness event local services part-funded

by Tusla held their own activities, programmes and classes within the community.

Many families receive the current services that are on offer both from Tusla, and from Tusla- funded services in the community and voluntary sector.

It is vital to promote the services and supports that are available on an ongoing basis so all families, parents and children are aware of the range of services provided by Tusla.

Families can directly contact the services at times of need to avail of supports.

Students send defiant message on homeless crisis THE students of Lucan Community College’s Amnesty group have sent a defiant message to the government.

During their Sleep Out event on Friday (10th May) they presented a petition of 809 signatures calling on Housing Minister Eoghan Murphy to take urgent action on the homeless crisis.

The petition was presented by the students to local TDs with the intention that they pass it on to Minister Murphy.

Over 30 senior students slept outside in the school courtyard overnight to gain an insight into what it’s like to sleep rough, to raise awareness of the housing emergency and to show solidarity with the families, children and individuals affected by homelessness.

One of those who took part was student and member of Lucan Community College Amnesty Group Niamh, who explained what they hope to achieve with their protest.

“Our Sleep out event in the school courtyard was very successful,” she told Dublin Gazette.

“A group of senior students slept outside to protest the shocking increase in homelessness. We were pleased some TDs, local Councillors and the Lord Mayor attended. We presented our views to them and asked questions regarding the homeless crisis. Days before the sleep-out, we prepared petitions for students, teachers and parents from Lucan Com-

munity College to sign.

“We received a total of 809 signatures. We designed a huge artwork containing the signatures to urge Mr Murphy to build more houses. We presented them to TDs on the night to give to Eoghan Murphy. It was a really cold night and hard to sleep but we could go home to our beds in the morning.

“We hope that we sent a message to government and politicians to all take urgent action to end the crisis.”

Students with TDs Gino Kenny and Eoin O Broin holding the petition

6 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 23 May 2019

GALLERIES OF THE WEEK

Gerry Meade and Niall McMahon with Natalia and Anya Pacios

Mary and John Dowling

Adrian Rush

Mattie and Mags McCabe. Pictures: Emily Gallagher

Great theatre for a popular cause

A

RTS lovers were out in force at the Lucan Spa Hotel recently for a highly entertaining theatre dinner night in aid of the St Francis Hospice. The night saw the Spa Hotel Charity Golf Classic and members of Lucan Drama present a four-course meal and two comedy plays, Armchair Critics, and Wedding Bells, all in the name of supporting the hospice and its vital work supporting many individuals and their families.

Niall Cassidy

Mary Ryan

23 May 2019 WEST  DUBLIN GAZETTE 7

8 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 23 May 2019

RATHFARNHAM: NUMBER OF EVENTS HELD TO MARK MAJOR MILESTONE

Local guides celebrate centenary PADRAIG CONLON

RATHFARNHAM Girl Guides are marking their centenary this year with a number of events, including a special celebration held recently at Irish Girl Guides’ National Memorial Cottage in Enniskerry.

Over 100 Guide leaders and former Guides and leaders took part in

the celebration, which included afternoon tea, a flag-raising ceremony, a fork supper and a campfire.

A n n e B owe n , w h o was Rathfarnham Guide Captain from 1953-1992, cut the specially crafted cake, which included a tent, a campfire, Guide badges and the words of the Guide promise.

Also in attendance

was Anne’s daughter, Heather Bowen, who was Leader in Charge from 1992-2019.

Between them, Anne and Heather have 65 years as Rathfarnham Guide Leaders!

Sylvia Richardson, who has been involved in Rathfarnham Guides for many years and is currently an Irish Girl Guides’ Outdoor Advisor,

LUCAN

Legend attends Na Gaeil Oga race night

Pictured at Rathfarnham Guides’ centenary celebration at Irish Girl Guides’ National Memorial Cottage in Enniskerry are (back row from left): Sylvia Richardson, Helen Sheridan, Thelma Tutty and Pamela Dowd. Front row from left: Joyce O’Keeffe, Julie Stein, Liz Kinlan and Jane Richards

Trainer and Treasurer of the National Programme and Training Committee, was one of the event organisers.

“We were delighted to have our President, Maureen Murphy, as our special guest and everyone enjoyed looking at the memorabilia and a slide show of old photos,” Sylvia said.

“The weather smiled on us and we were able to sit outside.”

There were several speeches with Sylvia sharing some of her memories of Guides in Rathfarnham and Heather speaking about Guiding today – the similarities and the differences from Guiding in the early years.

“As it got dark, we adjourned outside for our campfire,” said Sylvia.

“We sang our remembered songs and finished up with toasted marshmallows and chocolate biscuits.

“It was a great day of meeting old friends and lovely food and memories galore.

Achievement “One hundred years is a great achievement and I personally have got a huge amount out of Guiding. “ It h a s h e l p e d m e become a confident person in all areas of my life.

“

“I would like to congratulate Heather and her team of Leaders over the years for keeping Guides in Rathfarnham going through hard times and good times.

“I hope Guides in Rathfarnham will continue well on into the future.”

Irish Girl Guides welcomes new members from age 5+ and new volunteer Leaders from age 18+. For further information see www. irishgirlguides.ie or tel: 01 6683898.

One hundred years is a great achievement and I personally have got a huge amount out of Guiding

Taxi driver jailed for 5 years for sexually assaulting women A TAXI driver who sexually assaulted three young women within two weeks has been jailed for five years.

Mansoor Uddin (41), a married father of three, of Castleway, Adamstown, Lucan, pleaded guilty on the morning of his trial last February at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to sexual assault on January 30, 2016 and two sexual assaults on February 16, 2016.

Judge Sinéad Ní Chulacháin sentenced Uddin to three years imprisonment for each count of sexual assault.

She said the sentences on the latter two counts will run concurrently with each other, but consecutive to the ear-

lier count of sexual assault.

Judge Ní Chulacháin also suspended the final year of the sentences for counts two and three for two years on strict conditions for an effective operating sentence of six years imprisonment with one year suspended. She also gave Uddin credit for any time he has already spent in custody.

The court heard at a sentence hearing last month that Uddin sexually assaulted two of the women on the same night after demanding that one of them get out of his taxi when he saw her trying to get a photo of his identification.

LUCAN’S All-Irish GAA Club Na Gaeil Oga organised a Digital Race Night to raise funds for the club in The Pennyhill last Friday (17th).

There were 10 races on the night with the legendary commentator Micheal O Muircheartaigh acting as MC. Amongst the attendees were players from all the club’s senior teams as well as the parents of the academy children who all gathered to celebrate and raise money for the club.

The last race was an open auction with the horses going to the highest bidders and the lucky winners walked away prizes on including a Dublin jersey signed by the All-Ireland winning Senior Football team, two tickets to all four AllIreland finals this year (Football, Hurling, Camogie and Ladies Football), a boxing glove signed by Olympians Michael Conlan and Paddy Barnes plus plenty more!

The night was a great success with money raised to go towards the academy.

Ba mhaith linn ár mbuíochas a ghabháil le gach duine a thug airgead don chúis!

Is Cumann LánGhaeilge é Na Gaeil Óga agus má tá suim agat i dteacht ag imirt linn, níl oraibh ach scéal a chur chugainn ar Facebook, Twitter nó ag an ríomhphost cumannclg@gmail. com!

Micheal O Muircheartaigh

23 May 2019 WEST  DUBLIN GAZETTE 9

INTRODUCING NATURAL PLAY

HOUSING

Revamped playspace is officially opened A R E VA M P E D p l ayground in Tallaght incorporating natural play for children has gotten the official seal of approval.

Last Friday (17th) the Deputy Mayor of South Dublin County Council, Councillor Cathal King, did the honours when he officially opened the playground at Bancroft Park.

Speaking at the event Deputy Mayor Cathal King spoke of how important playing is for young children and the role it has in their development.

“Th e conce pts fo r change came from playground users and ideas which have been tried and tested during the delivery of the playspace programme across the county,” he said.

“Many of the changes incorporate natural play

Deputy Mayor of SDCC, Councillor Cathal King, gets into the swing of things at Bancroft Park

into the playground.

“Natural play has been proven to have benefits for children in terms of increasing well-being, developing imagination and allowing children to assess risk and develop their coping abilities.”

The Deputy Mayor went on to pay tribute to the local community for their support of the popular playground and of Bancroft Park and the work of the Council staff in managing the project and maintaining the playground.

Co-living scheme blasted

Have you heard of a new Boots service?

BOOTS’S new Hearingcare service now offers free hearing tests and services such as wax removal and expert audiology advice, and is available now in Boots’s Liffey Valley shopping centre and Jervis Street outlets.

Pictured at the launch are Carl Morris; Rob Skedge, Boots Hearingcare manag-

ing director; Bernadette Lavery, Boots ROI managing director; Esther Moore, Boots Hearingcare audiologist; Geraldine Brannigan, general manager, Boots Liffey Valley; and Andrew Coulter, Boots Hearingcare audiologist. For further information, see www.boots.ie/hearingcare. Picture: Julien Behal

FIANNA Fail’s Dublin European candidate Barry Andrews says proposals to develop hundreds of ‘co-living units’ across the city is a “pathetic attempt” to address a worsening crisis in the capital’s rental market.

“The notion that any young professional ‘should be excited about paying less rent for less space’ strikes even the most moderate as utterly offensive,” he said in response to comments made by Housing Minister Eoghan Murphy.

“Proposing that people should hand over upwards of €1,300 of their well-earned wages to rent a 178 square foot box is bad enough.

“Suggesting that they should feel privileged to do so is downright insulting.

10 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 23 May 2019

GO APE OVER THIS GORILLA AFTER waiting and waiting – and waiting some more – the sex of the new baby gorilla born recently at Dublin Zoo has been revealed. It’s a girl!

Her very protective mum wouldn’t put this lovely little looker down from the moment she was born, keeping zoo staff and carers on their toes while they kept an eye open to see what gender the zoo’s latest little arrival was. Now, SSE Airtricity and Dublin Zoo have launched a competition to name the little girl gorilla, with a year’s free electricty up for grabs.

To help name the latest arrival, just see www.sseairtricity.com/dublinzoo and suggest a name for the baby that reflects her West African origin ...

Panda offers to recycle election posters for free A RECYCLING company has said that it will accept and recycle all election posters free of charge at its centres from May 27.

Panda’s announcement is to encourage candidates to responsibly dispose of their posters, and to ensure that towns and areas around the capital

won’t be blighted by the campaign posters beyond election day.

The posters will be shredded by Panda, with the material then used to make a range of products such as paint tubs. Cable ties will also be accepted at the waste collection sites and will be recycled

to manufacture fruit and vegetable trays.

Panda is hopeful that the availability of this free service will encourage candidates to quickly take down their posters and bring them to be recycled after voting day.

While there is no deadline for dropping the post-

ers into the Panda sites, they hope that posters will arrive in the days following the elections so they can be recycled in large batches.

Des Crinion, managing director, Panda Recycling Division said: “We’ve seen a real demand for a service like this and are now

delighted to be able to offer this service and play our part in alleviating the issue of election litter.

“I would urge all political parties, candidates and county councils to make use of our service.”

Grumpy Cat is no more THE WORLD is mourning the death of a beloved cat that has constantly been memed.

‘Grumpy Cat’ (actually named Tardar Sauce) became famous for her grumpy expression and had her image regularly shared around the internet.

Sadly, ‘Grumpy’s’ owners have announced that she has passed away after complications with a urinary tract infection, aged seven.

23 May 2019 WEST  DUBLIN GAZETTE 11

12 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 23 May 2019

GALLERIES OF THE WEEK

Members of Firhouse Men’s Shed

Minister Joe McHugh greets Lorcan Staines and Stefan Shivenkov

Kate Donaghy and Matas Martinaitis

Becky Smith and John Semple

Cllr Brian Lawlor (FG) and Baby Pereppadan

23 May 2019 WEST  DUBLIN GAZETTE 13

Pride of place in the Memorial Garden at Firhouse Community College must go to the memorial wall, which names staff and students who passed away

Have you heard of a new Boots service?

BOOTS’S new Hearingcare service now offers free hearing tests and services such as wax removal and expert audiology advice, and is available now in Boots’s Liffey Valley shopping centre outlet. Pictured above at the launch are Carl Morris; Rob Skedge, Boots Hearingcare managing director; Bernadette Lavery, Boots ROI managing director; Esther Moore, Boots Hearingcare audiologist; and Geraldine Brannigan, general manager, Boots Liffey Valley. For further information on the services now available, see the site at www.boots.ie/hearingcare. Pictures: Julien Behal

Yusuf Elsayed

Andrew Coulter, Boots Hearingcare audiologist

Adrian Flynn, Colm Brophy, principal Senan Nolan and Minister for Education Joe McHugh. Pictures: Simon Peare

A touching tribute to late staff and students

M

INISTER for Education Joe McHugh was the guest of honour at a moving ceremony at Firhouse Community College recently, where a lovely memorial garden was formally opened. The garden pays tribute to all former students and staff members who have passed away, with two benches dedicated to late caretakers helping to provide a calm, welcoming spot for some quiet reflection.

Pride of place at the memorial garden rests with the memorial wall, which immortalises all those who’ve passed through the school and since passed away, but who will forever be remembered and honoured at the school under the simple yet touching heading of “Members of the Firhouse Community College Family Who Passed This Way”.

With a member of every class in every year group joining staff members,

parents’ representatives, and family members and friends of those immortalised on the wall, the inclusive event was something that underscored the strong community focus at the school – something Minister McHugh remarked upon as he paid tribute to the wonderful way the school had honoured those whose lives had touched the school, and who the memorial garden now pays respectful tribute to.

Rob Skedge and Bernadette Lavery

Carrying out an ear examination

14 DUBLIN GAZETTE 23 May 2019

POLITICS

IT’S TRULY YOUR CHOICE THIS FRIDAY, MAY 24

Voting day is here at last – so choose your vote wisely ELECTION DAY is upon us at last, with the local and European elections taking place tomorrow, Friday.

In our last two editions of Dublin Gazette, we have already emphasised the importance of casting your precious votes to determine

who will be your voice at council level, as well as deciding who will represent Dublin at European level.

With four Dublin seats to be decided in the European elections, a recent TV debate will have given Dubliners some profile of the candidates and

an indication of the importance of the European parliament for Ireland.

This is particularly important, particularly with Brexit looming and the dark shadow of ultra-nationalist populism that is gaining ground across the continent.

Much publicity has surrounded both European and local elections, with candidates’ posters on practically every tree and lamp post across the city and suburbs.

However, there is also a third vote to be cast that can change the Constitution on divorce that has largely been overlooked in the run up to Friday.

So, what are the proposed changes?

The first question relates to how long people must be living apart before applying for a divorce, and the second is the recognition of foreign divorces.

There will be one question on the ballot paper and voters can either vote Yes to allow both changes, or No to reject both changes.

Voters cannot accept one change and reject the other.

The proposal to amend the Constitution must first be

No matter what your views, just be sure to use your precious vote this Friday, and vote for the person, party or outlook that you want to support

“

Whatever your views, be sure to cast your precious vote in the upcoming elections

introduced in the Dail as a Bill, setting out the text of the proposed amendment.

The Bill cannot contain any other proposals. If the Bill is passed by both the Dail and the Seanad, as it was, it is then submitted to the people in a constitutional referendum, so that they can vote for or against it.

If the majority of the votes

cast at the referendum are in favour of the change, the President signs the Bill into law and the Constitution is then amended.

If the majority of the votes cast at the referendum are not in favour of the change, the Bill is not signed into law and the Constitution is not amended.

Only Irish citizens who are aged at least 18 can vote in a referendum. You need to be registered in order to vote – either on the main Register of Electors, the Postal Voters List, the Special Voters list or the supplement to one of these lists.

However, non-EU citizens may vote at local elections only.

23 May 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 15

MAGAZINE

Opel’s new Insignia Grand Sport P20

DUBLIN

Try the latest thrill seekers attraction in Malaga P20

THE WEDDING PRESENT: KINGS OF MUSICAL JUXTAPOSITION P19

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

JUMP FOR JOY

THE visually spectacular Canadian aerial acrobats ‘The Silver Starlets’ swing into Dublin with Emma Weafer from Boogie Bounce to launch Ireland’s biggest summer festival which takes place this July 12 - 14 in Dublin’s Merrion Square. Laya Healthcare’s City Spectacular will feature an exciting line-up of talent and is entirely free.

Picture: Marc O’Sullivan

16 DUBLIN GAZETTE 23 May 2019

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

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Costa Rican tree frog found in a bunch of Lidl bananas

STOWAWAY on Aisle 10 – a tree frog native to Costa Rica managed to make a voyage all the way to the exotic town of Netherfield, Nottingham, in a box of fresh fruit.

Workers at a Lidl supermarket in the town were sorting through a delivery of fresh fruit into the store, when they spotted the tree frog inside.

Immediately calling the RSPCA, the animal organisation came to take the amphibian, placing him with a keeper that had knowledge of the breed, who was found sat atop bananas that workers were unloading to put on shelves.

The frog, which has since been named Lloyd, travelled over 5,000 miles on his holidays.

sales@dublingazette.com

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

Sally is a very sweet three-year-old Collie cross who is looking for a patient and understanding home. Sally was quite unwell when she first arrived at our Rehoming Centre so she will need a family with a gentle approach who will be sympathetic to her on-going medical issues.

Sally can be quite shy, but with time and patience she will make a super addition to the right family. She needs someone who will help build up her confidence and will let her settle in at her own pace.

Sally is a gentle girl, so she would be happy to share her home with children over the age of 12 who will be calm and gentle with her.

If you have room in your heart and home for Prince then please contact Dogs Trust on 01 879 1000. They are based in Finglas, just off exit 5 on the M50. Map and directions can be found on their website www.dogstrust.ie.

You can also find them on Facebook www.facebook.com/dogstrustirelandonline or Twitter @DogsTrust_IE. (Remember: Always have your dog on a lead when in public.)

FIND US ON

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

Dublin 8 studen

Sally

DOG OF THE WEEK

23 May 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17

D QUIRKY THINGS THAT CAUGHT OUR EYE THIS WEEK...

BITS & BOBS

‘Plastic bag’ found at deepest point on Earth

A PLASTIC bag has been found at the deepest part of the ocean by an expedition team who were exploring the seabed.

Victor Vescovo, a private equity investor from Dallas, Texas who has also climbed to the world’s highest points, spent four hours exploring the remote bottom of the Mariana Trench with members of his crew.

The team believes it has discovered four new species of amphipods, a type of crustacean.

However, disturbingly, Vescovo and his

team also found a plastic bag and sweet wrappers. Sadly, this isn’t the first time plastics have made their way down to the deepest parts of the world’s oceans.

In 2018, National Geographic found a piece of plastic that descended to the deepest part of the Mariana Trench after examining thousands of photos taken during dives over the past 30 years.

The expedition established Vescovo as the record-holder for the world’s deepest dive.

Diner accidentally gets £4,500 bottle of wine PICTURED are The class of 2019 from The Liber8 Music Project photographed at the programme’s showcase event which took place at BIMM Institute, Dublin 8, last week. The 10-week music programme is designed for 14 – 16 year olds living within and around the Liberties area of Dublin 8, who have limited exposure to music and digital media. Over the course of ten weeks, students immerse themselves in the creative programme which includes modules on ‘Music Styles’, ‘Introduction to Performance Techniques’, and ‘Introduction to Recording and Sound Design’.

The programme culminates with a showcase event where the course participants perform live on stage to an invited audience. Pictures: Peter Houlihan

nts hit the high note Guns N’ Roses Sue Brewery Is this the world’s

IT seems as if Guns and Roses won’t be welcoming this brewery to the Jungle anytime soon, as they’re suing Oskar Blues Brewery for trademark infringement.

The rockers are accusing the Colorado-based brewery of piggybacking off their band name to sell the ‘Guns N Rose’ beer, in addition to merchandise and bandanas in support of the product.

The complaint launched against the brewery says that Oskar Blues tried to trademark Guns N Rose last year, but abandoned the efforts after the 80s rockers objected.

Now, Guns and Roses want a court order blocking the brewery from using the name, and turning over any profits from the merchandise and the product itself.

Looks like the group have a slight appetite for destruction…. of the brewery’s claim on the name.

worst Airbnb?

A BRITISH tourist in Amsterdam was given a shock when he discovered his Airbnb lodgings turned out to be a shipping container placed on the side of a road.

Londoner Ben Speller paid £100 for a single night stay at the accommodation described as “clean room with private bathroom,” by the host, Jacob on the popular room-sharing website.

But what he found inside the container was a mattress, a blanket and a portaloo attached to

the “bedroom”.

Speller decided then to book a hotel room for the night with Airbnb refunding him his £100 and money paid for the hotel.

The company say that ‘Jacob’s’ account and listings have been taken down from the website.

“Misrepresented or fraudulent listings have no place on our platform, and our team works hard to constantly strengthen our defences and stay ahead of bad actors,” said Airbnb in a statement.

A LUCKY customer was given a £4,500 bottle of wine after a mix up occurred at the Hawksmoor restaurant in Manchester. A tweet posted on the Hawksmoor Manchester Twitter account said: “To the customer who accidentally got given a bottle of Chateau le Pin Pomerol 2001, which is £4500 on our menu, last night - hope you enjoyed your evening! To the member of staff who accidentally gave it away, chin up! One-off mistakes happen and we love you anyway.”

According to the high-end restaurant, the customer had actually ordered a bottle of Chateau Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande 2001 which is priced at £260.

“A member of staff picked up the wrong bottle, mistaking it for another Bordeaux of the same vintage. The wine went out and was served to the customer.”

18 DUBLIN GAZETTE 23 May 2019

WHAT’S BIG IN MUSIC, CINEMA AND TV FAIR CITY: Opportunity knocks for some, but not others THIS week in Carrigstown, some more surprises catch locals unaware, bringing a mixture of good news – and bad – for some ...

AN UNEXPECTED visitor stuns Bob and Renee early this week, which leads the pair to grow increasingly concerned as the week ploughs on.

They wonder if they may lose Ellie for good, leading Renee to take some desperate measures, leading to some turbulent consequences later in the week.

Hughie is concerned when Ellie slips back into her role of Heather’s carer. Renee fears the consequences for Heather as a visit from Deegan looms.

Doug lets Erica in on his big mystery this week, too. Doug also tells an impressed Pete his big surprise. Jackie and Pete share a warm moment talking about him.

Dean is determined to get Hot Pots back on track and enlists Hayley to help, reluctantly taking her advice on board

to increase his social media presence.

Hayley advises Dean to give Hot Pots his full commitment, leaving Dean torn about his job at Vino’s.

Christine tells Paul bad news about his business venture, and Fiona offers to help him out. Unknown to Fiona, Jarleth returns and sees an ally in Jane.

Watch Fair City on RTE One on Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

WIN BIG!

CINEMA | POKEMON DETECTIVE PIKACHU ENTERTAINS

Fun family film is one to Pika-choose SHANE DILLON

TO BE honest, I couldn’t name many Pokemon if my life depended on it, and even after seeing Pokemon Detective Pikachu (Cert PG, 104 mins) recently, that’s still pretty much the case.

Err – Pikachu, Mewtwo, Bulbasaur, Charizard ...

Sleepy, Bashful, Rudolph, Prancer, Smurfette? No? So it’s fair to say that I’m not exactly the world’s greatest Pokemon expert, but perhaps Pikachu is the world’s greatest Pokemon detective.

The furry clever yellow creature is one half of the dynamic duo at the heart of the film set within the Pokemon universe, where Pokemon and humans coexist to a large degree.

Pikachu (voiced by Ryan Reynolds) is introduced soon after we’ve met a driven young man, Tim (Justice Smith), who heads to bustling Ryme City after learning of his dad’s death.

Tim (Justice Smith) and Pikachu (Ryan Reynolds) are an unlikely dynamic duo, but there’s a mystery to crack down Ryme City’s mean, fluffy streets ...

Tim soon crosses paths with Pikachu, and as Tim has the rare ability to understand the adorably cute Pikachu – who’s actually a Pokemon cop who was working a case with his late partner, Harry, Tim’s dad – the pair team up to investigate Harry’s suspicious death.

Through some dogged detective work, a little luck, and with help from a reporter, they’re soon on the trail that led to Harry’s death.

However, there’s something rotten going on in Ryme City’s murky underworld, where a bumbling human and some pushy Pokemon could make some dangerous enemies ...

It can be hard to rate kids’ films, even if you helpfully have a kid who knows the subject matter (plus their disinterested parent) in tow, as I did.

I know that Junior thought the film was “cool”, and he certainly snickered here and there

during the film.

Personally, I thought it was fine. A big baffling, if you don’t know your Pokemon from your Pikachu, but despite having plenty of Pokemon lore the film stayed accessible enough even for non-Pokemon people like me, with some great visuals to take in.

I’m still not convinced about Reynolds’ suitability as Pikachu, but the film will clearly entertain kids and Pokemon fans – so pika pika, I choose ... 7/10

Wild Youth sure to wow at the Court Yard, Leixlip

To enter this amazing competition, please email your name, location and contact details – as well as your answer – to competitions@dublingazette. com. The closing date for this competition is May 30th. Full competition terms and conditions are available at https://bit.ly/2HSLvf2.

THE Leixlip festival returns to the Court Yard hotel this June Bank Holiday Weekend, and promises to be an exciting Summer highlight.

The spectacular open air music festival offers four days of outstanding entertainment with the best of national and local musical talent, including main stage rockers Wild Youth (inset).

Having sold out their first Irish tour, including a headline show at The Olympia, Wild Youth will open the festival on the Rock the Yard main stage on Friday, May 31.

The Irish four-piece is enjoying a breakthrough year with their hit single, Can’t Move On, following earlier chart-toppers, All or Nothing, and Lose Control. Their signature radio

toe tappers will be sure to make you dance!

Their melodic brand of pop-rock has seen them support artists such as Niall Horan, The Script, Zara Larsson and Kodaline, playing numerous gigs across Ireland and the UK. Tickets for the weekend are now

on sale, with Day Tickets at €10 each plus booking fee, and a Weekend Ticket at just €30, offering four days for the price of three.

Tickets are available on Eventbrite and via the Court Yard Hotel website, and will be sold at the gate each day, subject to availability.

23 May 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 19

ENTERTAINMENT

The Wedding Present:

Past Glances 34 YEARS after their formation, The Wedding Present - under the continued tutelage of their inimitable frontman David Gedge - are still one of the kings of musical juxtaposition.

A deeply emotional band ruminating on themes of love and desperation, Gedge’s pulsating live act complement the alluring simplicity of their age-old topics with vibrant, manic guitar and melodic gnash.

Gedge, the sole remaining original member of the band, is going through something of a nostalgic period at the moment.

“There are new ideas within this group,” he says, “but these anniversary tours are quite interesting. When they were first suggested to me, I wasn’t at all keen on the idea, but I spoke to people about it and almost universally, to a person, they said ‘do it’.”

“I’ve come to really enjoy them. Oddly, I’ve found it easier this time around. We used to fall off stage and almost col-

 JAMES HENDICOTT

lapse backstage after shows. Maybe I’ve developed the muscles to play guitar this way.”

Back living in the UK after various periods in the US, Gedge and the band have ended up playing a series of 30th anniversary shows, touring in spots such as Asia and lesser-known corners of Europe along the way.

“Back then I wrote a little like I was writing in a diary, so when I go back to this, it’s almost like reading back,” he says of the latest tour, which is in memory of 1989 album ‘Bizarro’.

“It has meant that we don’t write as much now,” he continues. “I just don’t have the time.

Back then, we released ‘George Best’, ‘Bizarro’ and ‘Seamonsters’ in six years. Now I’d be lucky to get one album out in that time.

“It’s been very inter-

esting, though. We have a different kind of crowd now. People are coming back after years. They’ve had kids and moved away from music, and then all of a sudden the kids have left the home and they’re back at our gigs. Some of the kids are with them.

There are more people, a changing profile.”

The Wedding Present were never a band afraid to make a statement.

Famously, when performing Bizarro single ‘Brassneck’ on Top Of The Pops.

Gedge and co lightly mocked the show by standing stock still and refusing to mime along.

“It was a reference to the video for the song,” Gedge laughs.

“In it, we stand still while people dance madly around us. I loved Top Of The Pops. I think I was expecting someone to step in and have a word about it, we were getting more and more ridiculous with every rehearsal. But no one ever did.”

Audience reaction, it happens, is the main thing that keeps bringing Gedge back to Ireland, a

place The Wedding Present particularly love to play. “People love to get involved and dance here,” he says.

“If you go to somewhere like Germany, they’re still fans, but they kind of stand back and study the music. In Ireland, they get that music is about connection. You know if you play in Ireland and the gig gets a bad reaction, something’s wrong.

“Music isn’t a film,” he explains. “It’s not a book.

It’s about connection, about back and forth.

“Next year, we’re going to take it a bit easier, and we might get to some recording. Before that, I’ve got the shows, there are two books, the new movie and there is a single on the horizon. It’s been busy!”

The Wedding Present play The Academy on May 25. Earlier in the day, the new indie movie about their career, ‘Something Left Behind’ will show at the IFI in Temple Bar, with Gedge and director Andrew Jezard taking questions.

20 DUBLIN GAZETTE 23 May 2019

MOTORS

WHAT’S NEW IN THE WORLD OF TRANSPORT

Opel’s ‘impressive’ new Insignia Grand Sport DECLAN GLYNN

THE Opel Insignia ‘Grand Sport’ is the replacement for Opel’s family saloon and hatchback offering, the Insignia, which – in turn – replaced the Vectra many moons ago.

The new Insignia Grand Sport is built on an allnew platform, which has allowed the car to grow substantially, leading to increased cabin space in the process.

Trim & Engine Options There are four specification levels to choose from in the new Insignia Grand Sport – SC, SRi, SE and Elite.

Engine choices include 1.5-litre and 2.0-litre turbopetrol units offering 140PS and 260PS respectively.

Diesel engines consist of a 1.6-litre turbo-diesel with 110PS or 136PS, a 2.0-litre turbo diesel with 170PS, or a 2.0-litre Bi-turbo-diesel with a whopping 210PS. Equipment is generous across the entire range with stylish alloy wheels, automatic lighting control, electric windows front & rear, keyless entry & start, LED daytime running lights, LED rear lights, air-conditioning.

Also cruise control with speed limiter, leather multi-function steering wheel, IntelliLink infotainment

Audi’s A4 Celebrates its 25th Birthday ON May 7th 1994, the first Audi A4 drove off the assembly line in Ingolstadt, Germany.

Since then, the premium car brand has produced more than 7.5 million units of the model.

A quarter of a century after its birth, demand is unabated for the Audi A4, now in its fifth generation.

With 344,586 units sold in 2018, the A4 is the world’s most popular

system with DAB/FM/ AM radio with 7 speakers, 7-inch colour touchscreen, Smartphone connectivity,

Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, Siri/Google voice command, Bluetooth, ESP, ABS, front camera system, six airbags, ISOFIX on 3 rear seats, a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, and an alarm system all included.

All new Insignia’s feature Opel’s innovative OnStar Personal Assistance system, which gives you a direct line to a personal assistant 24/7.

My review car was an Opel Insignia Grand Sport ‘Elite’ 1.5-litre (140PS) ecoTec turbo-petrol, in Mineral Black metallic paint.

The range-topping Elite model is extremely well equipped, with standard features including 17” diamond cut alloy wheels, IntelliLux LED™ matrix headlights, auto wipers, front & rear parking sensors, rear privacy glass, front fog lights.

Also Navi Pro infotainment system (incorporating an 8” colour touchscreen with fully integrated European satellite navigation, Bluetooth™ audio streaming with mobile phone portal, USB audio connection, and seven speakers), dual-zone electronic climate control, leather seat trim, heated ergonomic front seats, and a Driving Assistance Pack. On the road, the

model for Audi.

Approximately every fifth Audi delivered worldwide today comes from this series.

The Audi A4 set new standards when it went into production in 1994 as the successor to the Audi 80 series.

With its elegance, sportiness and comfort, it quickly impressed customers all over the

new Insignia Grand Sport really excels, with terrific road-holding ability, direct steering, strong brakes, and a composed ride on offer.

The smooth-revving engine in my review car produces 140PS (138bhp) and 250Nm of torque, is capable of sprinting from 0-100km/h in just 9.9 seconds, and will hit a top speed of 226km/h.

Fuel consumption as low as 6.2l/100km (45.4mpg) is possible on a combined driving cycle, while annual road tax is just €270. When tested by Euro NCAP for crash protection of occupants and pedestrians, the new Opel Insignia Grand Sport achieved the maximum score of 5 stars.

The crisp, clean lines of the new Insignia Grand Sport ensure that the car attracts positive attention from fellow motorists and pedestrians alike, while

the sumptuous interior of the car will do likewise for occupants.

Ergonomic active front seats in my review car provided excellent support in crucial areas of the body, and are certified by the ‘Campaign for Healthier Backs’ (AGR), an independent centre of excellence for ergonomics.

The boot is big, square, and ultra-practical, with 490-litres of space available with the rear seats in place, or multiples times this capacity with the rear seats folded flat.

The new Opel Insignia Grand Sport oozes quality in every detail, possesses striking coupé-style contours, and is engineered

by Opel to exceed expectations in every perceptible sense. Prices start at just €28,145, with my review car specification priced from €33,540.

world.

The model became a bestseller in its first full year of production in 1995, when more than 272,052 units drove off the production line.

And today, the model continues to launch highlights in its class with numerous driver assistance systems.

“For a quarter of a century now, the A4 has symbolised Audi like no other model. It stands for cutting edge technology in the premium mid range, as well as for innovative production technologies at the highest level,” said Albert Mayer, Plant Director at Audi’s site in Ingolstadt.

“Our employees’ tireless commitment and passion for our brand have been, and continue to be, the driving force behind the impressive success story of the A4.”

23 May 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 21

TRAVEL Dare to try the latest thrill seekers attraction in Malaga

Enjoy the local gastronomic tuna festival in Tarifa

Cordoba “Patios” Festival

SPAIN | SOME GREAT EVENTS HAPPENING IN AND AROUND THE COUNTRY THIS MONTH

Perfect for a short break away SYLVIA POWNALL

Travel Editor SPAIN remains the number one holiday destination for Irish sun-seekers and as the weather warms up so too does the calendar of events and festivals.

Whether you’re a thrill seeker, a foodie, a gardening enthusiast or just a lover of outdoor pursuits in the sunshine there’s a last-minute break away to suit.

Experience the thrill of skydiving at Spain’s first open-air skydiving simulator, Fly4Real in Malaga. Open from May 1, the wind tunnel experience packages start from €52.

Stay in the nearby village of Alora

in this rustic lakeside one-bedroom traditional Spanish farmhouse with panoramic views over the turquoise El Chorro lakes.

Enjoy an adventure-filled break in the Andalusian countryside. Hike in the El Caminito Del Ray, once considered to be the most dangerous footpath in the world. A three-night break in Alora can be had from just€134 per person, with flights to Malaga (extra) from €60 return.

Head to the surfer’s paradise of Tarifa on the Atlantic coastline at the end of May for foodie heaven!

This traditional fishing village celebrates the annual bluefin tuna harvest with a tapas competition – Ruta del Atún – from 24 May to 2 June,

where over 50 participating bars and restaurants compete to create the winning tapa. In all over 40,000 tapas will be served during the weeklong event.

Stay in this well-appointed twobedroom apartment with swimming pool just 50m from the beach and close to the town centre with its bohemian vibe. Three night stay from just €41 per person sharing, flights (extra) to Malaga.

The annual Cordoba “Patios” Festival sees the owners of private traditional Cordoba-style houses open up their courtyards to the public for visitors to enjoy and experience these hidden treasure floral oases.

Stay in a well-appointed two-bed-

room apartment in the heart of the city, ideally located to visit the courtyards and other cultural attractions in the historic centre. Three nights’ accommodation from €143 per person (four sharing), flights to Malaga.

Paint the town Pink Benidorm Pink Weekend (26 May) is dedicated to all things pink, with four days/nights of parties, fun, picnics on the beach and fiestas.

Stay in this two-bedroom apartment which amazing sea views with well-maintained gardens and communal pool.

Located just 100m from the Playa de Poniente beach along with shopping, dining and nightlife all close by.

Three nights’ stay from €51 per person, flights (extra) to Alicante from €120 return.

For more visit www.spain-holiday.com.

Benidorm Pink Weekend

22 DUBLIN GAZETTE 23 May 2019

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26 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 23 May 2019

DUBLINGAZETTEPLANNING  WEST

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23 May 2019 WEST  DUBLIN GAZETTE 27

LADIES FOOTBALL P31

THE BEST IN DUBLIN

SPORT

BACK IN THE RING: BOXING: OLYMPIC champion, Michael Carruth, is urging would-be “challengers” to unite with him in the fight against cystic fibrosis as he embarks on a novel fundraising effort for Cystic Fibrosis Ireland (CFI). The 1992 golden boy is getting back in the ring along with other Olympians Kenneth Egan, John Joe Nevin, Paddy Barnes and Andy Lee on Friday, June 28 at 7pm.

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GAZETTE

SOCCER P28

PAGE 29

LET DUBLIN GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS INFORM YOU OF THE HIGHLIGHTS AND SCORES OF YOUR FAVOURITE TEAMS BASKETBALL | SEVENTH YEAR OF INTERNATIONAL EVENT

Dublin ready for Master Class  sport@dublingazette.com

THE SEVENTH Dublin Masters International Basketball Tournament takes place this weekend from May 24 to 26 with 40 teams competing in four age categories.

This year’s main tournament sponsors are SDCC (Dublins Outdoors), Failte Ireland and ‘Wines

by Lily’.

With over 300 people travelling to Dublin for the tournament it is an event which is growing year on year and has become an important weekend in the Irish Basketball Calendar.

Twelve teams will compete in the Over 40 men’s with leading contenders likely to be Joe’s Boys – a team of ex professional BBL players in England –and twice winners St Declan’s who are bolstered by former Irish Super League stars Ricardo Leonard and Gabe Jackson.

Team BNAF have a few Americans and top Irish players on board plus St Vincent’s Dublin will also be challenging for top honours.

Another team to watch from Croa-

tia is Adriatic Split.

In the Over 40 Ladies, Wild Rovers have dominated this competition in recent years and will be going for their sixth title in a row.

Led by Catriona White and with a team of many ex Super League stars, this team would still be strong contenders in the current National and Super Leagues.

Last year’s finalists, Mustangs, with the incredibly talented Siobhan Kilkenny leading the way, will be hoping to go one better while local team Oblates always put up a great show and have been unlucky in recent years not to win the title.

From abroad, there is a new team from Malta as well as from the UK: Sheffield Pick n Mix and Team Fusion.

In the Over 50 Men’s, DM Ballers will hope to retain their title but will have very stiff competition from a super Lithuanian team containing many Olympic medallists from the 90’s and will be the team to beat.

A new category added this year is the Men’s Over 60s with three

The 2018 men’s Dublin Master champions from St Declan’s

teams competing, Irish side Shannon Dodgers, from Scotland Strathclyde Sixers and from USA the aptly named Still Here.

72 games will take place from Friday to Sunday in four venues – Oblate Hall and Inchicore Sports Centre, National Basketball Arena and Colaiste Bride Clondalkin.

Entry is free to all games and the

main finals are on Sunday from 1pm-5pm in the Oblate Hall Inchicore.

This year’s nominated charity is Hugh’s House (www.hughshouse. ie) and there will be a great raffle with first prize of an overnight stay in Ashford Castle and other activities at the Tournament Party in the Louis Fitz hotel on Saturday night.

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

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

28 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 23 May 2019

CLUB NOTES

ROUND

2 1

SOCCER: HUGE CROWD TAKE IN BIG DERBY MATCH IN LUCAN

LUCAN SARSFIELDS GARDA/WESTMANSTOWN BUSY at WELL done Westmanstown to the Junior last A la weekend when we hosted Girls Feile Group and welcomed Naomh Barrog,Templeogue Synge St and Oliver Plunketts.

Well done to our own girls on a great effort and Comghairdeas to Oliver Plunketts who topped the group.

Lots of action this week; Inters are away on Sunday to Cuala.Juniors away on Sunday to O Tooles.

Ladies lost narrowly to Ballinteer St Johns in home championship tie on Wednesday last.

Congratulations to Luke Curran who played for Dublin minors against Offaly last week.Luke continues a great family tradition of inter county service after his father Paul with Dublin and grandfather Noel with Meath in the 1960s.

Two fundraiser dates for club members diaries are the Club Golf Classic on July 4th and Club Racenight on October 4th.

LUCAN SARSFIELDS ANOTHER Féile and another successful weekend, well done to Michael Wisdom and all his helpers who had the club looking so well and organised, on the field both teams won one and lost two, and went out at group stages, but at all times played with great heart and determination and represented the club magnificently, so well done to the coaches, mentors, parents and all the suppuort staff.

Unfortunately, not a great week on the field of play, losses for Jnr A and Jnr B Hurlers, Inter & Jnr Ladies in Championship, midweek, losses for Snr and Jnr A hurlers and Minor Camogie at the weekend. Jnr B hurlers did maintain winning ways in the league and are very much in contention FOLLOWING defeat for to league Naomhhonours.

O Well done to Chris Crummey and the Dublin Senior hurlers, who drew with Wexford and remain in the hunt to progress in Leinster. Best of Luck to Darren Gavin and the Dublin Senior Footballers as they prepare to take on Louth this weekend.

The Summer Camps Dates have been finalised and first up we have our Cúl Camp (football) on the 1st of July until 5th July. On the following dates we have 3 other camps; 8th -12th July Club Hurling/Camogie Camp; 12th 16th August Club Football camp; 19th – 23rd August Club Hurling/ Camogie Camp.

Registration can be completed through the link on the home page of the club website. So don’t be disappointed register asap to make sure of a place.

The camps are always very popular.

We are currently looking for volunteers to help our Childrens’ officer in our club to look out for the welfare of our children and ensure that we are providing a safe and fun environment for them to learn the skills of the GAA. If you have an interest in child welfare in our club and have a balanced and strong personality we would like to hear from you.

We rely on volunteers to run our club and hope you would consider helping us to help our kids enjoy our sport. You can contact via email - childrensofficerls@ gmail.com.

There was no winner of the lotto on the 16th May, Numbers were 5, 10, 17 and 25. Next weeks’ jackpot €6,200, next draw will be managed by Edel Mooney and is sponosered by John Ryan, Accountant. Lucky Dip Winners: Celine Mullen, Colm O’Mahony, Luke Neville, Brian Geraghty, Mike Hanley. Play Online here, Or Tickets can be purchased at the Club, or in Kenny’s Vesey Arms.

Golf Society: Results from Moyvalley Outing, Saturday, 18th May; Overall Winner Dave Whittle (18) 42pts, 2nd Overall Vincent O’Connor (30) 40pts, Winner Category 1 Billy Hayes (17) 39pts.

ROUND TOWER, CLONDALKIN

Bluebell United are through to the Metro Cup final. Picture: Anto O’Brien

Bell survive Collinstown Metro Cup semi cauldron

LSL METRO CUP Collinstown Bluebell United  DAVE DONNELLY sport@dublingazette.com

0 2

BLUEBELL United set up a mouthwatering Metropolitan Cup final with Crumlin United after beating local rivals Collinstown at the SDFL in Lucan on Monday night.

The two most successful sides in amateur football over the past decade – the newly-crowned champions and the Bell, who’ve won three in five – will meet on Friday, May 31.

Second-half goals from Sean Byrne and Gary Seery saw the Bell to a victory that manager Andy Noonan admits wasn’t as clear-cut as it appeared.

Collinstown – watched

on by a large crowd who made a hostile atmosphere for the visitors – play three leagues below Bluebell but more than matched them until the second half.

Bluebell played into strong sunlight in the first half and were caused problems by Collinstown’s pace and relentlessly high tempo.

They went in at halftime knowing they were in a game, but they got their noses in front shortly after the break when Sean Byrne headed a cross past Declan Woods.

And Ireland junior international Gary Seery wrapped up the win when he sprung the offside trap and kept his composure to slot home the second.

“It was a well-contested game,” Noonan tells the

Dublin Gazette.

“The support they have in their community is unbelievable. They must have had 4-500 people up there and the minority by far was Bluebell.

“It’s very much a testament to Collinstown as a local club, spearheaded by Stuart Goodall and Kevin Carroll the manager.

“Great football men that seem to have tapped into the community spirit. I haven’t seen a crowd like that in a long time in a junior match, and I was delighted to be part of it.”

Collinstown shocked Killester Donnycarney – who finished one spot above Bluebell in the league – in the last round and knocked St Mochta’s out of the FAI Senior Cup. Those results – and

three promotions in three seasons since moving to LSL – meant Noonan was never going to take the Neilstown side lightly.

“We didn’t take anything for granted. They knocked out Killester, so I had to prepare right and make sure the club didn’t disrespect or take anything for granted from Collinstown.

“They have some great players there that have played, and still can, at a much higher level than they are. Collinstown are definitely on their way up to the first senior division.

“Collinstown started like a house on fire. It was relentless, a testament to their fitness at this stage of the season that they kept it up.”

The fact Noonan knows

Crumlin and manager Martin Loughran so well means, if anything, he’ll find it easier to prepare for the final than the unknown quantity in Collinstown.

“The Metropolitan Cup is the biggest LSL cup. The last couple of years, for whatever, the Senior Sunday sides haven’t really fared well in it.

“Ideally, the last game of the season I wouldn’t have liked that will test us as much as Crumlin will.

But we’ll test them too and I think Martin [Loughran] would say the same.

“Crumlin deservedly have won the league. We would have liked a handier team in the final, but it’s a good way to draw the curtain down on a long, long season.”

Celtics add 3x3 success

Liffey Celtics’ Karen Mealey, Aine and Ailbhe O’Connor and Ciara Bracken with Hula Hoops Karen Hurley.

Picture: Ray McManus/Sportsfile

COURTYARD Liffey Celtics basketballers crowned an historic season as they picked up yet another piece of silverware when they won their women’s Hula Hoops 3x3 final against Fr Mathews in another thrilling battle between these two clubs.

Liffey had a number of tough tests throughout the day, with their opening two pools games both going to overtime, but they came out the right side of the result each time and went on to

win out their group to see them into a semi-final against DCU Mercy.

A convincing and gritty semi-final performance saw them see off the challenge of Mercy 16-10, to book a spot against Mathews in a hugely-anticipated final.

Celtics showed their mettle in the face of the challenge though, and won out in convincing fashion in the end, 15-10, much to the delight of the large support.

23 May 2019 WEST  DUBLIN GAZETTE 29

BOXING: UNIQUE CHANCE TO GET IN THE RING WITH AN ARRAY OF OLYMPIC HEROES

Carruth takes on all comers for CF HELP US FIGHT CYSTIC FIBROSIS CHALLENGE  STEPHEN FINDLATER

sport@dublingazette.com

OLYMPIC champion, Michael Carruth, is urging wouldbe “challengers” to unite with him in the fight against cystic fibrosis as he embarks on a novel fundraising effort for Cystic Fibrosis Ireland (CFI).

The Drimnagh boxing hero, who won gold at the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona, is getting back in the ring along with other Olympians Kenneth Egan, John Joe Nevin, Paddy Barnes and Andy Lee taking place in the National Boxing Stadium on Friday, June 28 at 7pm.

Members of the public interested in this exciting challenge will be joining these legends in the ring.

More high-profile names will be revealed closer to the date in what promises to be a series of thrilling encounters for those both inside – and outside – the ring.

The challenge is open to anyone who is physically fit, over 18 years old, and who fancies taking Carruth, Egan, Nevin, Barnes or Lee on for the fun – they promise to be gentle.

For full details on how to grab your spot in the blue corner, and to receive a fundraising pack, visit www. cfireland.ie An ambassador for Cystic Fibrosis Ireland, Carruth said of the challenge: “I am far too young to be considering throwing in the towel and if I can get back in the ring, then I have put out the challenge to the other Olympic boxing medallists to do likewise in our ‘Help

us fight CF’ challenge and have been knocked out with the support from my fellow boxers.

“I am calling on anyone that would like to spar for a one-minute round against me or any of the Olympian champion boxers in the National Stadium on Friday, June 28 to sign up now at www.cfireland.ie.

“We have everything in place. We will be in the red corner and you’ll be in the blue corner with your own team behind you. We will supply the gear and the sparring will be adapted to your level of ability.

“At the end of the round, we’ll even have time for a photo together in the middle of the ring – if you are still standing!

“We’re asking everyone that signs up to pay a minimum registration fee of €50 and then to fundraise to support this great cause. It will be a wonderful night’s entertainment so bring your family and friends along to see how you get on in the ring with a former Olympic Champion!”

The Help Us Fight CF aims to raise awareness of the fight that people with cystic fibrosis have on their hands every minute of the day.

Funds raised will go to provide much-needed supports and services, including patient grants for exercise, transplant assessment, fertility treatment and counselling, as well as research and new healthcare facilities.

Ireland has the highest rates of cystic fibrosis in the world and some of the most severe types of the disease, with more than 1,300 people living with cystic fibrosis nationwide.

Olympic heroes Michael Carruth and Kenneth Egan. Picture: SON Photographic

Fastest girl Eabha O Drisceoil. Picture: Lindie Naughton

Forrestal leads Liffey Descent JUNIOR LIFFEY DESCENT  sport@dublingazette.com

SE NA N Fo r re s ta l o f Thomastown Paddlers proved the class of the field at the Junior Liffey Descent last Saturday.

Forrestal, winner of the junior race at the 59th Liffey Descent last September, negotiated the ten kilometre course from Leixlip to Strawberry Beds in a time of 51 mins 30secs.

The course included a portage around the dam at Leixlip reservoir just ten minutes after the start and then the massive weirs at Lucan and Wren’s Nest before the finish at the Canoe Ireland Training Centre.

Over a minute later for second place was prerace favourite Matthew McCartney from Celbridge Paddlers in 52.54.

McCartney had finished second behind European

junior marathon champion Ronan Foley a year earlier.

A close third was Eoin O’Toole of Salmon Leap Canoe Club in 53.27.

Winning the Under-15 boys class in 56.42 was Paul Donnellan with his Salmon Leap clubmate Ruairi Bray less than a minute behind.

Fastest girl was Eabha O Drisceoil of Salmon Leap CC, winner of the U15 age group for a sec-

ond year. Despite a wobble at Lucan Weir, O Drisceoil recovered quickly and went on to clock a time of 60.41 – the fastest girls’ time of the day.

Not too far behind was Aine White of Celbridge Paddlers who was first of the Under-18 age group in a solid time of 1:03:30.

Second was Roisin Hannon of Moy CC in Ballina who had moved up from the Under-15 class and finished in 1:08.06.

30 DUBLIN GAZETTE  WEST 23 May 2019

ROUND

CLUB NOTES

2

ROUND TOWER, CLONDALKIN WELL done to our Intermediate hurlers who followed up an impressive championship home win over Naomh Maur with an away league win over Naomh Peregrines. Our junior hurlers lost to Na Fianna and Kevins. Hard luck to our Féile girls footballers who didn’t emerge from their group but battled bravely on Saturday.

Boys and girls born in 2012! We are going to deliver a series of special training sessions that will start this coming Thursday 23rd May. They will take place at Monastery Road from 6pm to 7pm and run every Thursday up to 13th June. The training will entail football, hurling and camogie. All welcome and contact details on our website.

This week we will announce details regarding the Summer Camps we are hosting. The Round Tower Summer Camp will take place Monday 8th to Friday 12th July and the Kellogg’s Cúl Camp will run Monday 1st to Friday 5th July.

Stay tuned to our website for registration details.

Fiachra Keogh topped the table at the Grange Castle Golf Outing - their next outing is President Aidan Stewart’s Day at Palmerstown House on June 15. First tee time is 2.0 - contact Tony Keogh 083 800 8333 or Liam Mac Laughlin 086 8115990 for further information.

ST PAT’S, PALMERSTOWN OUR Dinner Dance and Awards ceremony has been deferred to later in the year, 16 November. More details will follow nearer the time.

Congratulations to our senior camogie team on their league win during the week.

Well done to the girls football team who part in the Féile in Skerries at the weekend. They performed very well and are a credit to their parents, managers and club.

A special mention for our U12 hurlers who played and won their first league match against Oliver Plunketts.

Well done also to our U16 hurlers on their

win over Thomas Davis. Hard luck to our senior hurlers who went down to a stronger Ballyboden St Enda’s.

Online booking is open for our Cúl Camps which will run from 8 - 12 July, and 15 - 19 July, 2019.

Hurling skills for our younger players on every Friday from 6.30pm to 7.30pm.

Two Lotto jackpots this weekend - €10,000 and €2,200. The numbers in the first draw were 5, 7, 29 and 30; and 14, 22, 27 and 29 in the second. We had fur Luck Dip winners – Jerome, P Leonard, Richie Gallagher and Sheila Browne who each won €50.

THOMAS DAVIS THE Academy will be on the Astro next Saturday for children born 2013, 2014 and 2015 from 10.00 till 11.00. Children born 2012 will be on the training pitch beside the hall.

Attention all club members. If you would like to support Serena and Dylan on their Journey and can not do the VHI Marathon, a short walk/run/stroll will take place on Sunday 2nd June to the Waterworks.

Leaving club at approx 4.30pm and back to the club where music will be held on the night. All Welcome on the day/night. Sponsor cards are available from: Deirdre Halpin 0851569092, Paula Mc Guigan Well done to Senior Ladies Football Team on their defeat of Ballyboden St Enda’s in the chamoionship. Hard luck to the Junior Team who were defeated

by Stars of Erin.U15 B Team were narrowly defeated in their League Match.

U14s beats St Patrick’s in the league.

Join us on Bank holiday Sunday June 2nd as former juvenile player Shane O’Reilly and his band play a live gig after the Dublin Ladies Mini Marathon @8pm. We’d encourage all players and members to join us for a fun filled day.

WANDERERS

NO WINNER of this weeks jackpot, numbers drawn were 5-7-17. €25 goes to Ava Gallagher, Shaun O Connor, Ann Bissett, Tony Ryan. Jackpot next week is €8,000.

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

Our All Ireland mini blitz starts on the 17th of June, see our Facebook page for more information.

If you are interested in playing for our Adult Men’s teams this season please con-

tact Dave on 0877256754. If you are interested in joining our Ladies team this season please contact Dionne on 0879315556 for more info.

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

LADIES FOOTBALL : CROKES MAKE IT TWO FROM TWO

McGuigan magic not enough for Davis side DLGFA SFC GROUP B Thomas Davis 3-8 Kilmacud Crokes 3-15  STEPHEN FINDLATER sport@dublingazette.com

THOMAS Davis succumbed to a mammoth second half comeback from Kilmacud Crokes at Kiltipper to leave them facing a showdown with Fingallians for their place in the DLGFA senior championship playoffs.

Having beaten Fingallians the previous week in a home fixture, Crokes were anxious to secure a win over a rising Davis side who had also beaten Ballyboden St Endas in the first round.

They did so with a massive second half performance, forcing their way back after a tough first half in which the Tallaght club were dominant.

Crokes had opened the scoring with a well worked score from Michele Davoren but Thomas Davis replied swiftly with three unanswered points.

Julia Buckley put one over for Crokes and then Davis mounted a strong offence with Olwyn Carey and Ciara McGuigan doing all the running and, in the space of four minutes Davis had

Thomas Davis’s Ciara McGuidan under pressure. Picture: Barry O’Gorman

notched up 3-2, two of the goals coming from McGuigan.

Three Eabha Rutledge frees near the end of the first half saw the Stillorgan girls finish the half six points down.

But in the second half, it was all Crokes. Mia Jennings, arriving late owing to exams, burst on to the pitch at the start of the second half and following a lung-bursting run, fed Eabha Rutledge for

SPRINT QUEEN Rhasidat cleans up the double RHASIDAT Adeleke stormed to

a 100 and 200 metre intermediate sprint double at the Leinster schools track and field championships this week.

The Presentation Terenure and Tallaght AC star won the 100m in 11.69 seconds, a time good enough to have won the senior title too. She had over half a second to spare over the field and she had over a second in the 200 when she ran 24.34 to outdo Helen Ikopotokin.

Picture: ben mcshane / SPORTSFILE

the first of her two goals.

Two minutes later, the same two girls combined to reduce the deficit to two points. Thomas Davis had no answer for the pace of Jennings and they failed to get to grips with her attacking runs and once again she fed Laura Kane for the third goal.

Davis attacks were drying up and they could only manage two points from play in the second

half to Crokes’ 3-7.

Rutledge’s personal tally of 2-7 was very impressive.

This secured the second win and Crokes will face Ballyboden – who beat Fingallians on the same night by five points – in their last group game.

The group is still wide open and it will go down to the last round of fixtures to see who takes the playoff places.

23 May 2019 WEST  DUBLIN GAZETTE 31

LADIES FOOTBALL: BOHERNABREENA CLUB CELEBRATES DIVISION 9 TITLE

FOOTBALL

Pictures: GAAPics.com

Synger success in Feile Division 5

St Anne’s celebrate their success following their final win over Robert Emmets.

Pictures: GAAPics.com

Clifford kicks Anne’s to gold AIG LADIES FOOTBALL FEILE DIV 9 FINAL St Anne’s Robert Emmets  CÓILIN DUFFY sport@dublingazette.com

3-1 1-2

TWO second-half goals from Molly Clifford paved the way for a hard earned St. Anne’s victory in the AIG Dublin Ladies Football Feile Division 9 decider at St Peregrine’s GAA Club on Sunday.

The sides were tied at 2-3 apiece when they met in the group stages, so another tight encounter between these neighbours was expected, and they failed to disappoint.

Defences were on top in the opening minutes, with Anne’s keeper Taylor Lawlor-Smullen pulling off a fine save from a Maeve Scannell goal shot for Robert Emmets.

St Annes immediately went on the attack, with Maire Corcoran setting off on a solo run, before Caoimhe Joyce won possession, but her goal shot was

blocked by Robert Emmets keeper Niamh Kelly.

After some good team play, Emily Fogarty broke the scoring dead-lock for the St Anne’s in the fifth minute.

Robert Emmets pressed hard over the next few minutes, and after good work by Aoife Woodfull, who was a huge leader for them throughout, they levelled the game with their opening score after seven minutes.

Both sides tried to add to their tallies, but to no avail before the break, with Grace Clarke watching her 11th minute effort come off the post after doing well to scoop up loose ball for Robert Emmets At the opposite end, Corcoran showed great pace for St. Anne’s, before sending in a rasping effort, but Robert Emmets keeper Kelly got a touch to deflect the ball out for a 45’.

St Annes won a second 45’ in as many minutes, but failed to make it count, with some missed chances for both sides before the break, as they ended the half

dead-locked at 0-1 apiece.

St Annes got the second half off to a cracking start when Molly Clifford found the net after just a minutes, and although Amy Tyrrell had an effort blocked by Mia O’Connor, Clifford followed up for her second goal.

The opening seven minutes provided a goal fest, with another two goals produced.

Amy Allen found the net for Robert Emmets for their opening scores of the half, before Tyrrell set off at pace for St. Annes before her dipping shot found the

net to leave the score at 3-1 to 1-1.

Just one further score was produced over the remainder of the contest, with Grace Clarke registering a point for Robert Emmets.

Her side never gave up and pressed hard until the end, but with the likes of Katie Nugent, Abaigh Pollock and Ava Barnes solid for St Annes in the closing stages, they held out for a double-scores win.

Afterwards Pat O’Donoghue Dublin LGFA presented the Cup to St Annes captain Caoimhe Joyce.

ST ANNES: Taylor Lawlor-Smullen;

O’Connor, Saoirse McDonald, Celine

Abaigh Pollock, Kerry Murphy, Mya

Butler; Lucia Howlett, Aoife Woodfull

Clare; Leah Doyle, Ava Barnes, Katie

(0-1), Emer O’Donovan; Grace Clarke

Nugent; Cara Barnes, Emily Fogarty

(0-1), Sarah Kelly; Chloe Lynch Goode,

(0-1); Katie Murphy, Molly Clifford

Katie Smyth, Mia Hammond; Maeve

(2-0), Maire Corcoran; Aine Marren,

Scannell, Amy Allen (1-0), Grace

Amy Tyrrell (1-0), Caoimhe Joyce.

Jordan. Subs: Mya Yeates Stapleton,

Subs: Sunnibhe Peelo, Mia Keating,

Maedbh McGee, Ella Conlon, Abby

Roisin Holmes, Caragh Jones, Eva

Daly, Aoibhe Reilly, Emily Dillon, Bonnie

Byrne.

Kehoe, Emily Mahony.

ROBERT EMMETS: Niamh Kelly, Mia

REFEREE: Charlie O’Reilly

TEMPLEOGUE Synge Street took home the DLGFA Under-14 Division 5 Feile crown with a 1-4 to 1-2 final win over Parnells last Sunday in Chanel.

They initially emerged from a group stage that featured Crumlin, St Maur’s and Parnell’s whom they would go on to face in a final rematch.

They had to do it the hard way, falling behind to a goal early on but they only conceded two points over the remainder of the tie.

It was a success powered by Aine O’Malley, pictured below, while Mia Curran’s goal proved vitally important in turning the tide.

The side was captained by Cassie Dunlevy and Freya Fitzpatrick, the latter a hugely influential figure who has battled serious illness to be a central piece in this Synger side.

GazetteSPORT MAY 23-29, 2019

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

ANNE’S FEILE CELEBRATIONS FOOTBALL:

Bohernabreena club enjoy amazing weekend of Feile action as they end up with divisional crown.

SEE P31

GET IN THE RING BOXING: Michael Carruth offering unique chance to challenge Irish Olympic heroes for charity. SEE P29

BELL RING IN FINAL DATE SOCCER: Bluebell

overcome hostile ride from Collinstown in front of huge crowd to reach the final of the Metropolitan Cup SEE P28

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Former Lucan United duo get Ireland calls  DAVE DONNELLY

sport@dublingazette.com

FORMER Lucan United duo Conor Masterson and Mark Travers both received big call ups this week for Republic of Ireland panels.

Travers was included in Mick McCarthy’s senior squad while Masterson was named in Stephen Kenny’s Ireland Under-21 squad as the Tallaght man looks forward to a key phase of the preparations.

There is strong Dublin representation in the spine of the side, although Firhouse native Gavin Bazunu has been ruled out after picking up an injury during the Under17 Euros.

Defenders Darragh Leahy, currently of Bohemians, Masterson of Liverpool, Tyreke Wilson of Manchester City and Dara O’Shea of West Brom are also selected.

Lea hy a nd O’Shea are both products of St Kevin’s Boys while highly-rated Wilson, whose brother John Ross plays for Shelbourne, came through the ranks with Cherry Orchard.

Masterson plied his trade with Lucan United before signing for the Champions League finalists in 2014 and was named on the bench for last season’s semi-final win over Man City.

Two League of Irelandbased midfielders, Zack Elbouzedi and Jamie Lennon, have both made the cut following strong showings against Luxembourg.

Former Lucan United duo Conor Masterson and Mark Travers

“We’ve never qualified for the European

Championships at U-21 level so this tournament represents the highest level we’d have played“ Lennon, who played underage with Shelbourne, has been a regular for St Patrick’s Athletic while Kevin’s alumnus Elbouzedi has starred for Waterford.

“We’re extremely excited about going to the Toulon tournament and this is a fantastic opportunity for the players to express themselves in one of the most prestigious underage international tournaments,” said Kenny.

“We’ve never quali-

fied for the European Championships at U-21 level so this tournament represents the highest level we’d have played at and we’re set to play Mexico, China and Bahrain’s Olympic squads, as they prepare to qualify for Tokyo 2020.

“It’s also cruc ially important that we continue to build momentum throughout the year after the win over Luxembourg and looking ahead to the qualifiers in October and

November.

“I’m delighted to welcome into the squad the likes of Stephen Mallon, Canice Carroll, Jason Knight, Tyreke Wilson and Aaron Connolly who set up to U-21 international level for the first time, and also Jack Taylor, who comes into his first Ireland squad.”

Elsewhere, Peamount United were strongly represented as the Republic of Ireland under-16s kicked off their UEFA

development tournament in the Czech Republic with a 4-0 win over Belgium.

Goalkeeper Emma Ring, defender Della Doherty and midfielder Rebecca Watkins started, while Hazel Cawley was a second-half substitute, as Sue Ronan’s side eased to victory.

Ronan – the former senior international manager who took on the role as manager last year – had particular praise for goal-

keeper Ring, who she said “had a great game”.

Former Pea Jessie Stapleton – who won the under-14 All-Ireland Cup with Cherry Orchard boys last week and has trained with the senior international side – also started.

Ireland face the United States in their second game at the Pratelstvi Stadium in Prague on Thursday before finishing against the hosts in nearby Rosickeho Stadium on Saturday.