DANCE: A Christmas dinner dance will take place in the Perrystown/Manor Estate Community Centre, Dublin 12, on December 11. Featuring music by the Good Times, dinner is at 8.30pm with dancing until 1am. Tickets e32 are available on  4562373/4552761.

FAIR: A Christmas Gift Fair will take place in Tullow Parish, Brighton Road,  Carrickmines on Saturday, Novembr 28 from 10 am to 1pm.

ANTIQUES: A Christmas Fair of antiques, collectables, crafts and gifts will be held in the D4 Hotel, Ballsbridge Inn on Sunday, November 29 from 12 - 6pm. For more information tel 0879864678.

BAZAAR: The YMCA on Aungier Street is having a Christmas Bazaar/Charity Sale and Santa’s Grotto on Saturday, December 5 from 11am-3pm. Donations of bricabrac, ladies and gents clothing, children’s toys, DVDs/books/CDs, and gifts for raffle are welcomed at the reception.

BIBLE TALKS: Are given in Kingswood Community Centre every Thursday from 8.30 to 9.30pm and in Scouts Den, St Killians Hall, Watery Lane, Clondalkin every Sunday from 7 to 8pm. All welcome.   

OLD COINS: Irish coins or notes and small euro cents are needed for three charities including Haven (that build houses in Haiti); Children of Andes (for the street kids of Colombia) and Street league, the homeless Irish world cup soccer team. Collections can be arranged. Contact Brendan Flynn on 0868189888 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

SALE: Holy Trinity Church, Killiney will hold its annual sale on Saturday, November 28 from 11am-lpm in the Carry Hall (opposite Fitzpatrick's Hotel). Admission for adults is e2, children free. All welcome.

FILM: Hospice Africa Ireland is hosting an evening of nostalgia and Christmas cheer with a screening of the classic black and white James Stewart film from 1946 'It's a Wonderful Life' on December 3 at 9pm in the Screen Cinema. The evening will start with a cocktail evening in the Old Parliament Building, College Green. In keeping with the theme of the film, the dress code is 'Black & White'. Tel 4068708 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it to book tickets. All proceeds go directly to Hospice Africa Ireland to fund palliative care treatment for over 2,500 patients in three hospices in Uganda.

CHRISTMAS FAIR: An indoor car boot fair will take place on Sunday, November 29 from 10am to 4pm in Perrystown Community Centre, Limeklin Lane. Renting a space costs e20 where you can sell crafts, Christmas products, household good and books. The children can also visit Santa from 2pm – 4pm. To hire tables contact Bernie on 0868169904 or John in the centre on 4515527.

FLOWERS: The Royal Horticultural Society of Ireland is hosting a talk by Dr Matthew Jebb from the Botanic Gardens entitled 'Mr Darwin's Big Idea' in Wesley House, Leeson Park, Dublin 6 on Wednesday, November 25 at 8pm.

FILM: The Rathfarnham Parish Eco Group is offering a unique opportunity to see ‘The Age of Stupid Film’ on Thursday, November 26 at 8pm in the parish centre beside Rathfarnham Church of Ireland, Main Street, Rathfarnham. To book a ticket (e5 or e2 concession) call/ text David on 0868325780 or Fiona on 0861706923. Refreshments included and it will be followed by a short discussion led by Sylvia Thompson of The Irish Times.

OPEN DAY: Holy Child Community School, Pearse Street, Sallynoggin is hosting an open evening on Tuesday, November 24 from 7 to 9pm. Contact number is 086 3821 129.

CAR BOOT SALE: The Glasthule Car Boot Sale (formerly Pres Car Boot Sale) will take place on the first and third Sunday of every month. A hall will be available for indoor stalls. Tea, coffee, refreshments and lunches served. No food vans. Contact Liz on 0876308072 for further details.

CONCERT: Liam Lawton will perform ‘Healing Song’ in St Paul’s Church, Glenageary, on Monday, December 7 at 8pm in aid of Suzanne House that is run by the Order of St John of God for children who have a terminal illness and are medically fragile. Tickets e25 each can be obtained from Martha on 086 8801421/ 2771495 or Grace at Harvey Motors, Glasthule.

GLASSES: Supersavers Opticians are appealing for old, unwanted spectacles or sunglasses to help those in the developing countries. Post all donations or drop them into Supersavers Opticians on Talbot Street at the (corner of Talbot Street and Gardiner Street (beside O’Shea’s Hotel) or into the branch in Raheny Shopping Centre.
 
FAIR: Arts, crafts, homebaked goods and festive wreaths are available at the St David's School in Greystones Annual Christmas Fair during the first weekend in December. To find out more or procure a stall email askay@shoestringbiza .ie or tel 0872917519.

SUE RYDER: The Sue Ryder Shop is Blackrock's only charity shop and they are looking for donations, particularly of used or unwanted bridal, communion and debs wear. The shop is now open six days a week from Monday to Saturday from 10-5pm. It is located a few doors from Tonic pub and stocks clothes, books and bric-a-brac which raise funds to help maintain shelters for those in need. If you would like to volunteer some time, or make a donation contact Mandy on 0864001814 or find out more at www.sueryderfoundation .ie

SCHOOL REUNION: St Louis High School, Rathmines class of 1979 is holding a reunion in mid November. It's the 30th anniversary and the organisers are looking for students and teachers to attend. More information is available from the school or on This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

CLUB: A bridge club meets at Leopardstown Park Hospital on Thursday nights from 7.30pm. A and B grade players welcome. Tel 2896496.

BRIDGE: Absolute beginners are welcome to join new classes for Bridge in Inchicore and Kilnamanagh. Expert tutoring available. Tel Brian or Liz on 4501541.

CANCER SUPPORT: Yoga and relaxation classes are held in St Laurence Community Centre, Kilmacud, Stillorgan from 1.30 to 2.30pm each Thursday. Tel 2885725.

BADMINTON: A friendly game of badminton is held in St Laurence Community Centre every Thursday from 10 to 11am.

FASHION NIGHT: ‘Swishing The Rails’, an evening of style and fun, will take place at Holy Faith Secondary School, Clontarf, on Wednesday, November 25, at 8pm. On the night, there will be a sale of pre-owned quality fashion and accessories, wine reception, free raffle and spot prizes and expert beauty advice. All items cost e10 and are payable by cash only. Tickets cost e20 and are available from the school office. Over 18s. Phone 8331507. This is a fundraiser for Holy Faith Secondary School.

ART EXHIBITION: An art exhibition in aid of the Little Sisters of the Poor will be held at their residence on Sybil Hill Road, Raheny, on Friday, November 27, from 8pm to 10pm, Saturday, November 28, from 11am to 8pm, and Sunday, November 29, from 10.30am to 8pm.

CHRISTMAS CONCERT: The Seafield Singers’ Christmas concert will take place at St John the Baptist Church, Seafield Road, Clontarf, at 8pm on Friday, December 18. Niamh Murray (soprano), Jamie Rock (baritone) and David Bremner (accompanist) are this year’s guest artists. The proceeds of the concert will go to the Coombe Women’s and Infants’ University Hospital. Tickets cost e15 and can be purchased at the door.
TALK: Howth Peninsula Heritage Society is hosting ‘The Lighthouses of County Dublin’, a talk by Frank Pelly, on Tuesday, November 24, at 8pm in Howth Angling Centre, West Pier, Howth. The event is open to all. The cost to non-members is e3. This will be preceded at 7.15pm by the Annual General Meeting for members. The evening will conclude with a wine and cheese reception.
 
EMPLOYMENT: North Dublin Supported Employment. Do you have a disability/impairment? Would you like support in finding employment? If you have training, work experience or previous work history, we can support you. Please contact Work4U on 8442700 for further information.      

CRAFT FAIR: Fingal’s biggest Christmas Craft Fair will be held on Sunday, November 29, at the St Maur’s GAA Complex, Rush, from 11am to 5pm. It will host around 50 stalls with different crafts such as woodwork, glass art, patchwork, pottery, jewellery, designer knitwear, beauty products, baking, jams, flowers, candles, toys, paintings, photography, a tombola with great prizes and much more. All are welcome. All profits from stall rental will go to the Hospice and the Jack & Jill Foundation. For more information please phone Irene on 8490176, Maud on 8417833 or Hella on 8430855.
CONCERT: A Brendan Shine Concert will take place on Friday, December 4, at 8pm at Naomh Mearnog GAA Club, Blackwood Lane, Portmarnock. Admission is e20. Phone 087-2514515 if you require further information.

PANTO: O’Connell’s Musical Society presents their pantomime ‘Jack and the Beanstalk’ at St Brigid’s Boys’ National School, Howth Road, Killester, on Friday, January 15, at 8pm; Saturday, January 16, at 3pm and 8pm; Sunday, January 17, at 3pm; Friday, January 22, at 8pm; Saturday, January 23, at 3pm and 8pm; and Sunday, January 24, at 3pm;
The cost is e10 for adults and e6 for children.

EXPECTANT MOTHERS: A special blessing for expectant mothers will take place at Our Lady of Mercy Church, Artane, on Wednesday, December 9, at 8pm. All are welcome. Refreshments will be served afterwards. For further information, phone Kathleen on 8310917 or Eileen on 8319617.  

THEATRE: Rush Dramatic Society presents ‘Allo Allo’ at the Millbank Theatre, Chapel Lane, Rush, until December 12 (Wednesday to Saturday inclusive, 8.30pm nightly). Tickets cost e12 (e10 concessions). For bookings, phone 8437475. Annmarie Wolohan directs Jeremy Lloyd and David Croft’s hilarious stage adaptation of BBC’s hit comedy and has an excellent comic cast of the society’s stalwarts.

TABLE QUIZ: A table quiz will take place in aid of the Niall Mellon Township Trust on Thursday, December 3, in Smyth’s Pub, Malahide. A fun night is promised with a raffle and prizes galore. A table of four costs e40. To reserve your table, contact Jackie on 086-8619092 

CHRISTMAS MARKET: A Christmas Market, in aid of Skerries Day Care Centre, will take place on Thursday, November 26, in the Old School, Sherries.   Items for sale will include Christmas cakes, jams puddings, paintings, jewellery, knitwear, baby patchwork covers and plants for Christmas. Lots of raffles. All are very welcome.

VARIETY SHOW: Jomac Productions presents its hugely popular Variety Show at Holy Faith Girls’ School, Clontarf, on Friday, November 27, at 8pm. Admission is e10 and all proceeds will go to the Chernobyl Children’s Trust. Enquiries to 8336482.

DRAMA: Riverside Drama Circle presents a Night of Comedy, three one-act plays on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, November 23, 24 and 25, at 8pm in Naomh Barrog GAA Club, Kilbarrack Road. Tickets cost e10 (e8 for groups of 10 or more). Phone    8572892 for further information.

CHRISTMAS FAIR: A Christmas Fair will take place at Colaiste Choilm, Swords, on Sunday, November 29, from 2pm to 6pm. Book stalls, bottle stalls, games, toy stalls, wheel of fortune, Christmas hamper raffle and much more available.

TALK: Howth Peninsula Heritage Society is hosting ‘The Lighthouses of County Dublin’, a talk by Frank Pelly, at the Howth Angling Centre, West Pier, Howth, on Tuesday, November 24, at 8pm. Admission for non-members is e3. If you require further details, phone 8325555.

TINNITUS: A lecture on Tinnitus will be held on Saturday, November 28, in the Clarion Hotel, IFSC, Excise Walk, Dublin 1. Registration takes place at 9.45am and the lecture starts at 10.30am. The speaker will be Professor Deb Hall. Admission is free. Donations.

ANNUAL MASS: An Annual Mass for Lives Lost at Sea will take place on Saturday, November 28, in the Sea Angling Club, West Pier, Howth, at 3pm. All are welcome.
CHRISTMAS FAIR: The Old Borough National School in Swords is holding its Christmas Fair on Saturday, December 5, from 11am to 3pm in the school hall.
There will be plenty to please the dedicated browser, from the gift stall with its shiny, gift-wrapped selection of goodies to the farm produce and home baking stall. Children can visit Santa and browse the toy and bric-a-brac stalls to pick inexpensive gifts for the family.

SPIRITUAL DAY: A Spiritual Day with Travact will take place at The Dales Centre in Darndale on Friday, November 27, from 1pm to 7pm.

SCHOOL REUNION: Calling all girls who left Santa Sabina in 1980. There’s a 30-year school re-union being organised for January 9, 2010, for pupils who left Santa Sabina in 1980. Phone Paula on 086-2643569 for further details or Facebook ‘Santa Sabina Class of 1980’.  

BEREAVEMENT: Are you interested in supporting those who have been bereaved? If you would like to become a member of St Colmcille’s Parish Swords Bethany Bereavement Support Group, would like further details about Bethany volunteers and training or would like to avail of this free, confidential service, phone 8403243 or 8402652. Also, visit www.bethany.ie

MEALS ON WHEELS: Volunteer drivers are urgently needed to deliver meals in the Swords area around midday. This should take no more than an hour of your time and can be done on a fortnightly basis. It is an invaluable service in the community. Please call Joan on 087-6963813 for more information.

COUNSELLING: TARGET in Donaghmede offers a one-to-one non-directive counselling service on Monday to Friday from 9.30am-1.30pm and Monday to Thursday from 7pm-9pm. For an appointment, phone 8670279. Childcare services are available for morning appointments by arrangement with receptionist.

DREAMS: Dreams have long been a source of fascination. What are dreams and what is their purpose? These are just some of the questions that will be discussed at a Dream Discussion Group (non-profit making). If you are interested in Dreams or would like more information, contact Declan on 087-9957277 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

TOASTMASTERS: Clontarf/Marino Toastmasters Club is a non-profit club affiliated to Toastmasters International. The club is holding a meeting at the 
Regency Hotel, Swords Road, on November 25. Guests are always welcome with the first night free. Contact Patricia Murphy on 085-1165571 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it if you require further details.
  
BADMINTON: A badminton club (mixed), based at 1 Commons Street, International Financial Services Centre (IFSC), is recruiting new members for Fridays from 8.30pm to 11pm. Three-court facility. For more information, phone Catherine on 086-2730399.
 
TOASTMASTERS: Fingal Toastmasters Club meets at the Marine Hotel, Sutton, on alternate Mondays at 8.15pm. Develop your communication skills in a friendly and supportive atmosphere. The next meeting will take place on November 30.

CHOIR: Would you like to join a mixed choir? Seafield Singers always welcomes good singers, particularly men. Sight reading is not a priority. Rehearsals take place on Thursdays from 7.30-9.30pm in Clontarf. If you are interested, please contact Alison Young on 4904226.
VOLUNTEERS: The ABACAS School in Kilbarrack is looking for volunteers to drive the school minibus for school activities like swimming and horse riding during school hours. Volunteers will have to have a clean D1 driving licence, be willing to fill out a Garda Vetting form and must have at least two references. Please call Mandy Daly on 8396705 from 9am to 3pm or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

MUSICAL SOCIETY: Are you looking for a fun pastime with a great social life? New members are invited to join Baldoyle Musical Society. They stage a pantomime and musical production annually and have openings for male and female chorus members over 16-years-of-age. Don't fancy going on stage? You might be interested in joining the back stage staff or helping out 'front of house'. Rehearsals for the pantomime 'Beauty and the Beast', to be held in January 2010, have commenced. Contact Karl on 086-8146531 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it for further information.

BADMINTON: A badminton club is looking for ladies to play the sport at Portmarnock Community School every Tuesday from 8.30pm to 10.30pm. For more information, phone Eileen at 8461474.

SINGERS: The Dublin Airport Singers are looking for new members. First sopranos, tenors and basses are especially needed, but all voices are very welcome. The choir’s musical director is Paul Deegan. Weekly practice takes place at St Vincent de Paul Primary School, Griffith Avenue, every Tuesday at 8pm. For more information, phone Kathryn on 087-9592703. 

BIBLE TALKS: A series of talks from the Bible are being given at Balbriggan Combined Clubs Community Centre Dublin Street, Balbriggan, on Tuesdays from 8-9pm. These talks are free.

PLAYERS WANTED: Drumcondra Football Club is looking for players for its Under 12 schoolboys’/girls’ team, born year ending 1997. Training takes place every Monday and Thursday at 7pm at Clonturk Park, Richmond Road. Contact Alan on 085-1148729 for more information.


CHESS: Portmarnock Chess Club is seeking new members (juniors 7.30pm and adults 8.30pm) for their meetings every Thursday. The club caters for all types of players from casual and social to highly competitive, and competes in Dublin Community Games and the Leinster Chess Leagues. For further details, contact Denis Kelleher on 085-1690101.

TOASTMASTERS: Malahide Toastmasters meet at the Grand Hotel, Malahide, at 8pm, on the second and fourth Wednesday of the month. Phone Liam on 087-2696260 for more details.

OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS: Is food a problem for you? Do you eat when you’re not hungry? Do you go on eating binges for no apparent reason? Is your weight affecting the way you live your life? Phone Overeaters Anonymous on 2788106 or visit
www.oa.org

WANTED: Collector seeks Irish picture postcards, old and not so old, used or unused. Also, Irish aviation picture postcards and Aer Lingus memorabilia. Please contact John on 8378898.

WANTED: Old spectacles or sunglasses to help those less fortunate than ourselves in the developing countries to see better. Please post or drop in your unwanted spectacles or sunglasses to Supersavers Opticians in Talbot Street (8363051) or Raheny Shopping Centre (8187918).
 
BRIDGE: Afternoon Bridge in aid of the Little Sisters of the Poor, Sybil Hill, Raheny, takes place every Monday from 2pm to 4.30pm. All grades welcome. Novice and Improvers’ section is separate. For more information, phone Peter on 8339797 or 087-9344795.

WEBSITE: Struggling to find out where kids’ classes are on or to think of things to do with the kids at the weekend in North Dublin? Visit www.mykidstime.ie for more information.

WOMEN’S GROUP: A new intercultural women’s group is being established in the Swords area, which will initially meet on a monthly basis. The group is open to women from all backgrounds. For further information, contact Atinuke Diya on 085-7065797 or Sara McIntyre, Fingal LEADER Partnership on 8951070/086-1718002 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

VOLUNTEERING: Are you interested in helping your community to improve services and opportunities? Lá go Bhrí is a community childcare service based in the Mourne View Estate, Skerries. The management committee is seeking new members to become involved in the running of the service. If you are interested in volunteering please contact Helen on 8020484 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it for more information.

PLAYERS REQUIRED: Killester Basketball Club seeks boys and girls born between 1999 and 2002 to play on its youngest teams. For more information phone Mark on 086-0314465, email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or visit www.killester.com

INVITATION: Girls who want to have fun should join Scoil Uí Chonaill GAA Club, 95 Clontarf Road (opposite the old baths). There are teams for every age from nursery to ladies, and girls are particularly required for Under 11 and 14 teams. It’s a great way to make new friends and develop a new skill. Boys and men are also catered for in hurling and football and new members are very welcome. For further information contact PRO Niamh Crowe at 8333599.

CHILDCARE: The Childcare Bureau is a local childcare resource centre providing support and training to childcare workers, childminders, parent and toddler groups and parents. If you are interested in availing of childcare training or require support and information, please contact Alison on 8675244 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it Advice and training is provided free of charge.
 
CHOIR: The Dublin City Council Choir is a mixed choir drawn from all over the city. They rehearse from 5.30pm to 7.30pm every Thursday at the Civic Offices, Wood Quay, and would welcome people who enjoy raising their voices in song and meeting likeminded people.

UNEXPECTED PREGNANCY: Unexpected Pregnancy is hard to face. If you need help or support, contact CURA. Phone in confidence. All services are free.
Phone 1850 622 626 or 6710598 or visit www.cura.ie for more information.

ARTISTS: Original art from local artists is on show at St Sylvester’s GAA Hall, Malahide, every Sunday, from 12 noon to 6pm and in Café Provence. For more information, visit www.irish-art.com/artalley

STROKE SCHEME: The Volunteer Stroke Scheme Northside is appealing for volunteer drivers and helpers for their stroke clubs held in Kilbarron Court every Monday and Wednesday from 10.30am to 12.30pm. Please send your applications to: The Volunteer Stroke Scheme 249, Crumlin Road, Dublin 12, or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it Phone 4559036.

WRITERS: Trinity Writers’ Group is currently looking for new members. The group has been in existence since 1991 and have produced several collections of poetry and short stories. It is a friendly group where members meet and chat, read poetry, short stories or a section of a novel they may be working on. It’s optional to read or not. The group meets at 6.30pm on the first Thursday of the month in the back room of Donaghmede Library.

TOASTMASTERS: Fingal Toastmasters Club meets at the Marine Hotel Sutton on alternate Mondays at 8.15pm. For more details, phone 8451840.

AL-ANON: If you are troubled by someone else's drinking, there are weekly meetings taking place throughout Dublin, including Abbey Street, Gardiner Street, Stanhope Street, Ballymun, Blakestown, Cabra, Coolock, Finglas, Killester, Malahide, Raheny, Sutton and Swords. For details of the meeting nearest you, contact Al-Anon Family Groups Information Centre, 5 Capel Street, Dublin, on 8732699. Alternatively, email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or visit www.al-anon-ireland.org

NEW GROUP: A new group for mature single people has been formed in north county Dublin. The group is for people in their 30s or 40s who want to meet new people for dining, cinema, nights out and maybe even daytrips or weekends away. You must be single/divorced/separated, with or without kids. The group meets once a month for drinks on a Saturday night at various venues on the Northside, where the setting up of other events is discussed. For more information, visit www.meetup.com/NSSN35/

HISTORY: Are you interested in the history of Coolock and surrounding areas? You are invited to join a new local history group in Coolock Library. Meetings take place on the first Tuesday of every month at 6.30pm in the library. No particular skills are needed and all are welcome. For further details phone 8477781 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

TODDLERS: A Parent & Toddler Group meets at St Gabriel's Parish Centre, Clontarf, every Monday from 10.30am to 12 noon except during school holidays. Open to pre school children. Parents and childminders are welcome. Enquiries to 087-9383772.

COUNSELLING: Baldoyle Family Resource Services provides confidential counselling for anyone experiencing difficulties in life. Counselling is offered in marital/relationship difficulties, adolescent/child counselling, bereavement and other general issues. For more information/ appointment, phone Lilian on 8326115.

BEREAVEMENT: A Bereavement Support Group meet in the Donnycarney Community and Youth Centre on Thursdays from 8pm to 9.30pm. This counsellor-facilitated group is suitable for individuals who are affected by the death of a family member, friend or companion. The service is free of charge. For further information phone Tina on 8187180.

WRITERS: The Donnycarney Community and Youth Centre Monday Writers’ Group welcomes new members. Sessions take place from 10.30am to 1pm. Free of charge. For further information phone Liz on 8314494. 

BALDOYLE: Baldoyle Badminton Centre is now open every Saturday and Sunday from 2pm-11pm. Try out the fastest sport in the world. To hire a court, phone 8393355/8393074.

CHOIR: Dublin City Council Choir is looking for new members. They meet from 5.30pm to 7.30pm every Thursday at the Civic Offices on Wood Quay and welcome people who wish to sing with them.

LADIES: Ladies’ Club meet at St Laurence O’Toole’s GAA Club on Blunden Drive, Ayrfield, every second Tuesday. All are welcome. Phone 087-7820583.

CHESS: New members are welcome to Portmarnock Chess Club on Thursdays, juniors (7.30pm) and adults (8.30pm. The club, which has been in existence since 1971, caters for all types of players, from casual to highly competitive. They compete in the Dublin Community Games, Irish and Leinster tournaments, Leinster Chess Union leagues and weekend tournaments. Phone Denis Kelleher, club president, on 085-1690101 for further information.

YOUTH CLUB: Clontarf Foróige Youth Club urgently needs adult volunteers to help out. If you are aged 18 or over, and would like to give something back to the community, then the club needs you. It caters for young people aged 12 and over. Members get involved in fun activities and games that they are interested in. This is a great opportunity to engage with and meet new people. If you have an hour to spare and would be interested, please contact Bryan Gavin, Foróige Regional Youth Officer on 086-8519639 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

READING AND WRITING: Life can be hard when you have a problem with reading and writing. Can you spare two hours a week, morning or evening, to help someone improve their skills? Training will commence in October. Phone Marie Casey on 8171990 for more information.

CARERS: Are you a family carer? Caring for a child with special needs, a family member with a long-term illness or a frail older person? The Crosscare Carer-Support Programme offers a variety of services in North Dublin. To find out what’s happening in your area, contact Nora or Rosemary at Crosscare Carer-Support Programme on 8360011.

CHOIR: The Cantible Choir is now recruiting new members. The choir meets every Tuesday at 8pm in a city centre venue. If you would like to join a choir and are in good voice, please contact Phyl on 2854674 or Phil on 087-2161182.

TUITION: An adult reading and writing service is available to all persons who have difficulty with basic reading and writing, spelling and sums, and who left school before Leaving Cert. The service is free and is available to all persons on Mondays and Wednesdays from 9.30am to 1pm, and Monday nights from 7pm to 9pm. Contact Brenda on 8671967 (mornings) or 087-9047230 (afternoons and evenings) for further information.

LONE PARENTS: Doras Bui, a parents’ alone resource centre based in Coolock, offers lone parents accurate information on their rights and entitlements, support with family life, supports for teen parents, courses on health, parenting, art activities and other topics identified by lone parents themselves. A staff member is available to talk to you by phone or in person from 9.30am to 4.30pm, Monday to Fridays. For further information phone 8484811/8481872 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
Also, you can visit www.dorasbui.org for more information.

BREASTFEEDING: A Breastfeeding Support Group meets at the Community Mothers’ Room in the Coolock Development Centre, Bunratty Drive, every Thursday from 11.30am to 12.30pm. Come along and meet other breastfeeding mothers. Phone Marie on 8482956 for more information.

WEBSITE: Unmarried and Separated Parents of Ireland (USPI) provides information on weekly meetings and assists parents who are experiencing marriage/relationship difficulties. Visit www.uspi.ie

POKER: A poker classic takes place every Thursday and Sunday in Cara Hall (opposite Raheny Garda Station) at 9pm sharp. All are welcome.

BRIDGE: Baldoyle Bridge Club plays every Monday at 7.30pm in the local badminton centre in Baldoyle Industrial Estate. Now open to non-members for the summer. All are welcome.

CEILI: Swords Ceili Club holds classes for all levels on Wednesdays from 8.30pm to 10pm at Scoil an Duinnigh, Kinsealy, Swords. Beginners are welcome. There are also classes for children from three-years-of-age at Colmcille’s GAA Club on Wednesdays and Fridays. Phone Grace on 087-9549066 for further information.

DANCING: Old-Time Sequence Dancing takes place every Tuesday from 8.30 to 10.30pm at St John Vianney Hall, Ardlea Road, Artane. Admission is e6 and includes break for tea and cakes. It also takes place every Wednesday from 8pm-10.30pm at 54 Parnell Square West. Admission is e7. Phone 085-1263993 for further information.   

KNITTING: Knitting classes are available at Donnycarney Community Centre, on Thursdays from 2 to 4pm. For details contact the centre on 8329676. Beginners and knitters are welcome.

ADHD: Dublin North East ADHD is a Northside awareness group that meets every three to four weeks at Northside Partnership, Bunratty Drive, Coolock. Parents/guardians, special needs assistants and teachers are all welcome. For further information, phone 8512289.

BOXING: Bay City Boxing Club training takes place at Kilbarrack Community Hall, Greendale Road, every Sunday from 11am-12.30pm and Wednesday from 6.30pm-8pm. New members are welcome. For further information contact Pat on 8471863.

PARENTS: Are you expecting a child? Preparing for Life would like to hear from you. Preparing for Life invites all parents expecting a baby in the communities of Darndale, Belcamp, Moatview, Traveller communities and Newtown Court to join the programme. Drop into the Preparing for Life office in the Darndale/Belcamp Village Centre (Bell Building) or phone 8771509.

ART ALLEY: Local artists exhibit every Sunday from 12 to 6pm in St Sylvester's GAA Hall, Malahide, and permanently in Cafe Province. Paintings changed fortnightly. Admission free. Visit www.irish-art.com/artalley

PAINTING: A Drawing and Painting Group in Donnycarney Community and Youth Centre is welcoming new participants on Mondays from 10am to 12noon. All are welcome. A nominal fee of e3 per session is charged. Phone 8329676 for further details.

BROWNIES: Info Centre for Immigrants is currently building up a team of Brownies, aged six and a half to 11 years in Skerries and its environs under the Irish Girl Guides and are looking for volunteers to help as leaders. All training and supports for the programme will be provided. Names for new Brownie members are also being taken. Phone Areola on 085-7329472 or Ruth on 086-3663683 for further information.

WALKING: Those who enjoy a stroll and a chat are invited to join a group every Wednesday at 2pm outside Raheny DART Station for a walk through St Anne’s Park to Dollymount Strand or surrounding areas. The walks are free and last approximately 90 minutes. Contact Ronan at Dublin City Council on 2223726 for further information.

PITCH & PUTT: St Mary’s Ladies’ Pitch and Putt Club play at Inisfails GAA Club, Balgriffin, every Saturday at 10am. New members are welcome.

TODDLERS: Fun For Toddlers (things to do for children over two) takes places in Coolock Library every Thursday from 10.15am to 11.15am. This is a facility for mother and toddler to meet in the library. Books and toys for children aged 3-5 will be provided. Phone 8477781 for further information.

FOOD ADDICTS: Having problems with overeating, constant dieting, binging or purging? Food Addicts Anonymous can help. Meetings take place every Wednesday at 8pm at the Central Mission on 9C Lower Abbey Street. This is a 12-step meeting and there is no charge. 

YOUTH: Are you aged over 18? Are you living in the Clontarf area? Would you like to give something back to the community? Would you like to work in partnership with young people and help them to learn new skills and organise activities? If you are this person and you can spare an hour on Thursday evenings, then please contact Bryan Gavin, Foróige Regional Youth Officer, on 086-8519639 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

SOCIAL CLUB: New Beginnings Social Club for widowed, divorced and separated people continues to meet on the first Tuesday of each month upstairs in Smyth’s of Fairview at 9pm. Phone 087-9603833 for further information. 

URGENT APPEAL: KARE Social Services delivers meals to hundreds of people in their homes each week. There is a growing demand for this service and to ensure that everyone who needs a meal receives one, an urgent appeal is being made for more volunteer drivers. If you can spare approximately one hour a week between 12 and 1pm either Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday or Friday or are interested in finding out more, phone Sheila or Mary at KARE, 2 Sybil Hill Road, Raheny, phone 8058574 or 8058433.

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS: Do you or someone you know have a problem with alcohol? The Killester Group Social Services Care Centre on Sybil Hill holds an open public meeting on the last Monday of every month, except bank holidays. 

GUIDES: The Coolock Girl Guide Unit - Cygnets (5 and 6 years of age), Brigine (7-10), Guides (10–14) and Rangers (15-18) have recommenced meetings. New members are welcome in all sections. Visit St Brendan's Parish Centre, Coolock Village, any Friday between 7 and 10pm or contact Mairead Quinn, unit leader, on 087-2479820 for further information.

SMOKING: Do you want to stop smoking? A nicotine anonymous meeting takes place in the Rutland Centre every Sunday at 8pm.

BOOK CLUB: Are you aged between eight and 12 and enjoy reading? Why not join the Coolock Library Book Club? The club meets on the first Wednesday of each month from 3.30-4.30pm. For further information, phone Coolock Library on 8477781.

VOLUNTEERS: Portmarnock Foróige Youth Club urgently needs adult volunteers to help supervise the club, which is involved in various activities and events. The club meets on Mondays from 8 to 9.30pm in Portmarnock Sports and Leisure Centre. If you are aged over 18 and would be interested in giving something back to the community, contact Bryan Gavin, Foróige Regional Youth Officer, at 086 8519639/6301560 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

BRIDGE: Bridge mornings will take place every Friday from 10am to 12.30pm at Sybil Hill Nursing Home, Raheny (opposite St Paul’s College). All grades of players are accepted and there will be a special section for beginners and novices. For further information contact Peter at 8339797.

BOWLS: Raheny Active Retirement Association has bowling in Killester College on Mondays and Tuesdays from 2-4pm, and art in Raheny Court (behind library) on Tuesdays from 2.30-4pm. Bridge and card playing to start soon. For further information, contact Brian on 8312523 or Mary on 8329408.

CHOIR: Would you like to join a mixed choir? Seafield Singers always welcome good singers and there are vacancies in all parts. Sight-reading is not a priority. Rehearsals take place on Thursdays from 7.30-9.30pm in Clontarf. If you are interested, please contact Alison Young on 4904226.

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS. Do you have a drink problem? Help is available. Saoirse AA group meet at the BASE centre, Brackenstown Road, Swords, every Wednesday at 8pm. Phone 087-6206788 for further information or visit www.saoirse.ie

BOXING: Training for Baldoyle Boxing Club takes place at Baldoyle Community Hall on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7pm-8.30pm and Sundays from 11am to 12.30pm. New members are welcome. Phone 8391132 for further information.

STROKE: North Dublin Volunteer Stroke Club requires volunteer drivers to bring members to a social club in Coolock and then home again on Monday and/or Wednesday mornings from 10.30am to 12.30pm. If available, please contact Patricia on 8351592.

VOLUNTEERS: Are you aged over 18 and living in the Balbriggan area? Would you like to give something back to the community? If so, Balbriggan Foróige Youth Club urgently needs your help. Foróige is currently trying to establish a youth club for young people aged 12 and over in the Balbriggan area. This cannot be achieved without adult support. If you can spare one hour a week and would like to work in partnership with young people, then please contact Bryan Gavin, Foróige Regional Youth Officer, on 086-8519639 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

ART GROUP: New members are welcome to the Donnycarney Community and Youth Centre Art Group on Thursdays from 10am to 12 noon. For more information, phone 8329676.
 
MOBILES: Got a new funky mobile phone? Don’t know what to do with the old ones lying around your house? The answer is simple. Just send them to: Meningitis Research Foundation, 63 Lower Gardiner Street, Dublin 1. The Foundation will make sure they are turned into cash and put to use in the fight against meningitis and septicaemia. To obtain a freepost envelope or for further information please contact Anne on 8196931 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

BARNARDOS: Are you interested in helping Barnardos, Ireland’s leading children’s charity? Supporters are required to set up or join a Barnardos Helper Group. The groups help to raise funds for Barnardos, and support and promote its work in their local area. For full details contact Angela Walsh or Orla Tighe on 4530355 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

BINGO: Bingo takes place every Wednesday at 8.30pm in St Monica’s Youth Centre, Tonlegee Road, Edenmore. Great cash prizes, raffle, fast track and jackpots. Books are e4.

MOTHERS: Volunteer mothers are required to visit first and second time mothers in their own homes. The Community Mothers’ Programme is a Parent Support Programme in which friendly local women, known as community mothers, carry out monthly visits. Training and support is given to volunteers. Phone Marie on 8482956 for further information.

CLUB: Club 4 U is an exciting new club that has been set up for youths between 15 and 18 to provide an alternative to alcohol and drugs. Activities include interclub discos, variety shows, fun and games, national events and special projects. The latest club is in Killester. They meet every Monday from 8-10pm at Killester Parish Centre (beside St Brigid’s Church). For more information please contact Danielle on 087-9344784 or Amy on 085-1632911.

REUNION:
Virgin Mary Girls National School Reunion 1974-1982 (Mrs Smiths Class), Ballymun, Dublin is holding a reunion in Fagan's Pub, Drumcondra, Dublin on December 5 at 8pm. The organisers are missing the following people: Catherine Herbert; Tara Moore; Jacqueline Flynn; Cathy Byrne; Sharon O'Driscoll; Mary Hand; Mary Corcoran; and Bernadette Thomas. Anyone who  knows these girls whereabouts are asked to ring Patricia Wrafter on 051-340470.

LITERACY:
A small group is forming in the Finglas are for an adult literacy programme using new methods of teaching. No charge. Experienced teacher. Call 087-6650588 after 6.30pm for further details.

VOLUNTEERS:
Women's Aid, which provides support, information and referral to accommodation to women and their children who are being physically, emotionally and sexually abused in their own homes is currently seeking volunteers to work on its Dublin based national Freephone helpline. The helpline is open seven days a week 10am-10pm on 1800-341900. If you are warm, a good listener and interested in women’s issues, contact Gisela Boehnisch for an application form on 8684721 or e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it Full training will be provided in January and February 2010.
TALKING:
Castleknock Toastmasters Club meets upstairs in Myo's pub in Castleknock on the first and third Thursday of each month. It’s a lively and active club providing an opportunity for overcoming shyness in speaking to an audience and improving existing skills in a comfortable and stimulating environment. Members are welcoming, friendly and sociable. Anyone over 18 is invited to come along to a meeting and observe before deciding to join. For further information ring Jenny O'Halloran on 087-7605422.

LOCAL HISTORY:
A new local history society entitled Fingal South Heritage Society has been set up in Blanchardstown Library. It runs on Saturdays from 2pm to 3.30pm. Anyone interested in may enquire to Aingeal on 086-8438812.

POKER:
A poker classic takes place at Fr Maloney Hall, Drapier Road, behind Ballygall Church off Ballymun road on Saturdays from 9pm. All welcome. Entry fee $12.

WORSHIP:
Gospel Hope Gospel Ministries have an exciting worship and praise meeting every Sunday at 6.30pm in the meeting room at Crowne Plaza Hotel, Blanchardstown. Everybody welcome. Phone 086-3207192 for details.