Discover Duhallow Issue 30

Issue 30: November 20, 2020

contact us at: info@discoverduhallow.com

FREE

AWARD FOR LOCKDOWN HELPER MARGARET: P12&13

RIVER RESCUE HERO Duhallow man saves drowning woman when Kevin was taking a stroll with pals EXCLUSIVE By M. O’CALLAGHAN on O’Sullivan’s Quay in Cork city. He NEWMARKET footballer Kevin O’Sullivan is being hailed as a hero after diving into the River Lee and saving the life of a drowning woman.

The drama unfolded earlier this month

did not hesitate to take to the icy waters and shares all the dramatic details of the rescue in an exclusive interview with Discover Duhallow.

 See page 3

Hero Kevin O’Sullivan

IRD Duhallow, James O'Keeffe Institute, Newmarket, Co.Cork

(029) 60633 P51 C5YF

We are operating behind closed Our hugely popular face masks doors under Level 5 restrictions. are in stock. Our stylish designs are available in two sizes and You can purchase goods on a can be posted out for “Click and Collect” basis, your convenience simply contact Revamp.

Check out our Facebook page and Instagram page for regular posts of new inventory

Opening Hours Monday to Friday 9.00 a.m - 5.30 p.m

Duhallow news

MY LOCKDOWN EXPERIENCE I am an 88-year-old resident in De La Salle Miguel House, retirement home in Castletown Co Laois, like every other over-70 year old I have been living asecluded life since last March. From what you would discover in the media it is a very lonely, tedious existence. This has been my experience.

When I reached retirement age from teaching, I was too exuberant just to lay aside my books and take life easy. I decided to become a social worker. I had one year to do in the university to complete the course. This necessitated working in Mountjoy Prison one evening a week in the company of other students. One could work with an individual or a group in the prison – I chose an individual. The manager asked me what type of person did I want, I answered one who has been here for a long period and who never has a visitor. I was introduced to a 40-year-old who was in jail for murder and attempted murder.

My main contribution was a listening ear. He had been in an industrial school and when he reached 17 years of age he was offered to a farmer for a nominal wage. The housewife wanted him to do most of the housework as well. She was very demanding which was irritating him a lot.

One Saturday before going to town she asked him to do the bedrooms and tidy up the kitchen.

When she was gone, he treated himself to a good meal and he took a good drop of the bottle. When she returned, she ate him to pieces. He got so angry he grabbed their loaded gun and shot her dead for which he was sent to jail for years.

He was of quiet disposition and had no home. The gaol authorities became aware of that and in due course put him in charge of the front lawn because he would not abscond.

So, this was my student. I encouraged him to read, he could

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By Br. MALACHY BUCKLEY not read or write. I told him I would teach him. I had been doing it for over 40 years. We got a break and a cup of tea, I took a pack of cards out of my pocket and we played games of forty-five. To finish I told him I would bring in suitable books and in a short time, he would be able to enjoy reading. I would also teach him basic writing, and so we spent the year. We had a friendly relationship and he got to love reading.

Going back to my own ‘lockdown’ story, on October 15th I was walking along the corridor to lunch and the matron called my name and told me to go straight back to my room and not to leave it for the next 10 days.

She explained that the doctor who attended me that morning had since been pronounced Covid positive. A notice in large letters on my door said NO VISITORS. My small room contains washing facilities, a toilet, and a shower. I also had a TV, to which I am not addicted. My room is well stocked with all kinds of books, religious and otherwise.

The religious community is like a well-organised family with regular rising, prayer sessions, meals and those who are able to do so organise the in-betweens of the day.

During lockdown, I did long periods of reading, writing and siestas. The first few days were quite boring but gradually I got into the routine. I got the news and other interesting topics on TV. I got a pleasant surprise when Theresa, the matron, on the seventh day walked into my room with a broad smile on her face.

“Malachy,” she said, “you are free to leave your room.” There were lots of smiles and “nice to see you again” from fellow residents and staff.

I am glad I had the experience because now I can feel for others.

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Br. Malachy Buckley – pictured here with Jamie Buckley, who he is sponsor for – is a regular contributor to Discover Duhallow. He is originally from Derrygallon, Dromtarriffe. After a lengthy career of more than 40 years as a teacher, followed by social work, he currently resides in De La Salle Miguel House, retirement home in Castletown, Co Laois. Br. Malachy gives us a vivid account of his 'Lockdown Experience' – after being in close contact with someone who was infected with Covid-19, he was sentenced to 10 days of confinement to his room before finally getting some reprieve and being told 'you are free to leave your room'. He was glad of his experience as he can now 'feel for others'. We're delighted to see that he has come through the other end fit and well!

Please share your lockdown experience with Discover Duhallow, either a line, a paragraph or a page, all are very welcome.

Issue 30 November 20, 2020

Duhallow news

How it feels to save a life On Friday the 6th of November Kevin O’Sullivan should have been away for the weekend with friends celebrating his stag party. Due to Covid restrictions in place he instead found himself out on an evening stroll with friends. Upon seeing a commotion along the river bank on, aptly enough, O’Sullivans Quay in Cork City, Kevin descended a ladder into the River Lee when it became apparent someone was in difficulty in the water. Kevin attached himself to one of the buoys which had already been thrown in and bravely swam 300m up the river in pursuit of a woman who was just moments from drowning. Eventually he managed to catch up to the woman and they were both pulled out of the water by the emergency services team. Thankfully both of them are in perfect health after the ordeal and Kevin was gracious enough to answer some questions we asked him about the incident: Are you a good swimmer and how did you learn?

I am a fairly good swimmer yes. I learned by going on the ‘Swim Week’ bus that used to travel from Newmarket to Mallow swimming pool every day for a week during the summer holidays when I was in national school.

What was going through your mind when you climbed down the ladder and into the water?

My mind was racing to be honest, it felt like thousands of things were going through my mind. What were the circumstances I was involving myself in? Am I capable of saving someone from drowning? I was uncomfortable to be honest as I didn’t know how the scenario was going to play out as I’d never been in a situation like this before.

Did you start to panic when you felt the cold water all around you?

No I wouldn’t say I panicked from the cold, regularly when training with Newmarket over the years we use

Issue 30 November 20, 2020

Kevin O’Sullivan’s quick thinking and courage helped to save the life of a woman who got into difficulties in the River Lee

ice baths for recovery after training and it helped me mentally prepare on this occasion.

Have you had rescue training previously or were you working off instinct?

No I’ve never done anything like that. I suppose the adrenaline was pumping and I was working off instinct to a degree. But also the people throwing in the buoys were guiding me through the operation so that helped focus my mind.

Were you exhausted during the rescue, do you think you could have kept going out there much longer?

I was getting very fatigued towards the end to be honest. I was still

wearing most of my clothes and they were starting to weight down on me. Afterwards, having got the once over from the emergency services team, I was fine again within a few minutes.

What do you want people to learn from the incident?

I have been surprised since the incident by how many people have told me they're not able to swim.

Similarly, to something like CPR, I think it is a life skill that more of us should know as you never know when you will be called upon to use it to help someone.

How did it feel the next day when it sunk in that you had saved a person’s life?

Relief was my overriding emotion to be honest. Relief that everyone walked away from the event unscathed. Relief, that I didn’t get into difficulty myself and complicate matters further.

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Community news

Be a Newmarket 5k virtual runner In the year that is 2020 and all through the country no real old fashioned racing could take place. But in Newmarket Co.Cork, “the home of the fast races”, the virtual 5k was born.

Come join us and virtually run the home of fast races 5k from Friday 18th December to Monday 21st December 2020. n €15 entry fee (includes medal and postage) n Option to purchase extra event merchandise during registration. n Add your result to MyRunResults between 18th & 21st December.

Prizes to be announced later. Follow Duhallow Athletic Club on Facebook for details.

End 2020 on high note by saying yes to the Newmarket 5k virtual run 2020.

Special thanks to our main sponsor Fitness Solutions,Sportswear Specialists Mallow, Co.Cork. “We can’t race but we can still run" Register by logging on to the following URL: https://www.myrunresults.com/events/duhallow_ac

Kanturk Cubs having a great time on Zoom Due to lockdown, Kanturk Cubs now hold their weekly meetings on Zoom.

“We held a very exciting virtual pet show. The cubs had a variety of furry and scaly friends to show each other. We learned how to take care of lizards and guinea pigs,” said Leader Ben McAuliffe.

For Halloween, the Cubs dressed up in their scariest costumes and participated in bobbing for apples and the flour challenge – all online!

Rathmore Text Alerts If you wish to continue to receive text messages via the Rathmore Community text alert, please drop €10 in an envelope with your name and mobile number to Dermie Moynihan's letterbox before December 12th. New members welcome. If you see anything suspicious in your area, call Macroom Gardai on 026-20590.

Clothes Bank Collection There is a clothes bank collection point in Tureencahill Community Centre. All clothes need to be dropped off before Friday 27th November. Thanks In advance for your support.

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Congratulations to Anna Cashman, Rathmore (3rd year) in Scoil Pobail Sliabh Luachra Rathmore who won 1st prize in the Intermediate category in the Student Enterprise Awards.

Anna’s entry in the ‘My Entrepreneurial Journey’ competition saw her go forward to represent Co. Kerry at the National Finals which this year due to Covid-19 restrictions took place online. The judges Nora O'Keeffe The Shamrock were very impressed with Anna’s project which mapped House Ballydesmond, who celebrated her 90th birthday out the life of a successful entrepreneur. Well done Anna! on November 9th

Leanne Maher and Elaine Daly, both Newmarket, each won a Newmarket Credit Union Student Grant for €700. Leanne is studying Arts and Elaine is studying Primary Teaching, both at Mary Immaculate College, Limerick Photos by Sheila Fitzgerald Survey for Young Scientist Award Competition 2021 – calling all bilingual students in Munster aged 12-19: Please complete our survey which seeks to investigate how having English as a second language affects students socially, mentally and academically. Our form is online, on the Millstreet Community School Twitter page and the IRD Duhallow Facebook page.

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Our investigation is exclusive to those who learned a language at home since birth from one or more parent who is native to that country.

Our data collection and statistical analysis plays a massive role in our project results. Our sample size is 1,000, so we are aiming to reach our sample size. Thank you!

– Cathy Byrnes, Alex Ducey and Anna Moynihan

Issue 30 November 20, 2020

Community news

Castlemagner notes

The magnificent November Garden 2020 in remembrance of Holy Souls at St. Patrick's Church, Millstreet Photos by Seán Radley

Halloween Scarecrow Couple made by Noel Buckley, Dooneen, Miillstreet. The area featured some splendid Halloween displays

‘Millstreet Memories’ by Noel Bourke, Kilkenny, recalling happy holidays in Millstreet in the 1950s - just published and on sale at Wordswort Bookshop, Millstreet

Spring bulbs: Castlemagner Community Development Association is organising planting of spring bulbs by volunteers. We hope to plant tulips and daffodils in both villages of Cecilstown and Castlemagner. In keeping with our Biodiversity Community Plan, we have purchased sustainably sourced native Irish bluebells to plant around the parish. To volunteer, please call Hazel Bourke 029 50015 (evenings). All Covid Level 5 restriction guidelines will be followed.

Development plan: Please check out the lit up notice board at Castlemagner Community Centre, which displays an ordnance survey map of the area showing the Proposed Development Plan. Also included is the Andreana Sheehan (area engineer) reply to the proposal.

Traffic calming: Castlemagner Community Council were successful in their application for €12,600 for digital speed signs and ramps.

School parking: Congratulations to Ballyhass NS who are to receive €45,448 towards a car park.

Thanks to Andreana Sheehan and Cllr. John Paul O’Shea for their help with the applications.

Biodiversity plan: Castlemagner Community Development Association and Castlemagner GAA representatives recently met with Ian McGrigor of Gortbrack Organic Farm to help draw up a Biodiversity Plan for the Castlemagner Community.

CCDA are currently applying to IRD Duhallow for funding to help finance the plan.

Stocking filler: We continue to be hopeful that the book 'When I was knee high' will be ready for Christmas. During the past week we have received further donations and we are sincerely grateful to those people for the support. IRD Duhallow have received the application for further funding from the CCDA. To pre-order a copy please contact Mary O'Sullivan on 086-071 7761.

A spooky snap from the recent Halloween Camp that was held at IRD Duhallow

IN THE FRAME Readers are invited to share their photographs with us – the best will feature here. Be sure to caption your image and provide your full name and details of where the photo was taken. Email it to us at: info@discoverduhallow.com

Issue 30 November 20, 2020

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Crossword sponsored by Bob’s Bar & Restaurant, Kanturk

€20 voucher for use at Bob’s Bar & Restaurant, Kanturk To be in with a chance to win a €20 voucher from Bob’s Bar & Restaurant in Kanturk for food/drinks, complete the crossword below and post with your name & contact details to: Discover Duhallow Puzzle Competition, James O’Keeffe Institute, Newmarket, Co Cork Or simply scan completed puzzle or take a snap with your phone and email to: info@discoverduhallow.com

WIN! Terms & Conditions: Deadline for submissions is noon on Friday, November 27th, 2020. First correct entry drawn will win a €20 voucher, valid for three months from date of issue, to be redeemed for food / drinks from Bob’s Bar & Restaurant, Kanturk. No cash alternative. Winner will be named in subsequent issue of Discover Duhallow.

No correspondence will be entered into. Voucher to be collected from Bob’s Bar & Restaurant, Kanturk.

Across 1. Restricted (7) 5. Perils (5) 8. Detection device (5) 9. Villain (5) 10. Sheltered side (7) 11. Flightless bird of Australia (3) 12. Chasm (5) 14. Complies (5) 19. Prohibit (3) 20. Diplomatic (7) 22. Nimble (5) 23. Light beam (5) 24. Reside (5) 25. Boring (7)

Down 1. Food store (6) 2. Decoration (5) 3. Goals (7) 4. Fin (6) 5. Stiff (5) 6. Stage set (7) 7. Repress (6) 13. Dressing (7) 15. Perplexed (7) 16. Overseas (6) 17. Dialect (6) 18. Tusked marine mammal (6) 20. Test (5) 21. Lariat (5)

Solution: Issue 29, October 30, 2020

Solution in Issue 31, December 4, 2020

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WINNER! Well done to Margaret Geary of Kilbohane, Milford, Charleville, Co Cork who wins a €20 voucher from Bob’s Bar & Restaurant, Kanturk!

Issue 30 November 20, 2020

Advertising 5;2 2 É +( 5; f,»e [, @ , Goo]

WARMER HOMES SCHEME JOB VACANCIES IRD Duhallow delivers energy efficiency upgrade works to eligible homes through SEAI’s Better Energy Warmer Homes Scheme, in conjunction with Lead Partners, NCE Insulation.

We are seeking applications for 3 Full Time positions (39 Hours Per Week) for Warmer Homes Scheme Installers which will be funded through Pobal’s Community Services Programme.

,]J,@ @ , Goo] J Jof, föƆIJÎŞĨöū ċūöŞŤêĒļļīŤ ĕŤ ŞöêŞŰĕūĕijČ ċļŞ Î öīĕöċ ċūöŞŤêĒļļīŤ ŞÎêūĕūĕļijöŞǂ

ARE YOU ELIGIBLE? Persons in receipt of Job Seekers Benefit (JB), Job seekers Assistance (JA) or one parent family payment, Persons in receipt of disability allowance, invalidity pension, blind persons pension or other disability benefit.

WHAT WORK WILL BE UNDERTAKEN? Attic Insulation, Cavity Wall Insulation,Wall and Roof ventilation, Window installation & Internal & External Wall Insulation, Candidates should have experience in plastering of internal and external walls, Applicants should apply with cover letter and CV to: The Manager, IRD Duhallow CLG, James O’Keeffe Institute, Newmarket, Cork, Email; duhallow@irdduhallow.com Completed applications must be received before 5.30pm Wednesday 2nd December

[öƌ ðŰūĕöŤLjŞöŤśļijŤĕéĕīĕūĕöŤ Ɔĕīī ĕijêīŰðöƼ ŞļƅĕðĕijČ Î ŤÎċö Îijð ċŰij öijƅĕŞļijIJöijū GļIJöƆļŞĨ ŤŰśśļŞū īÎijijĕijČ Îijð ðöīĕƅöŞĕijČ ÎêūĕƅĕūĕöŤǂ Ēö ĕðöÎī êÎijðĕðÎūö ƆĕīīƼ ļŤŤöŤŤ Î ŞöīöƅÎijū ŝŰÎīĕċĕêÎūĕļij ǐ ĒĕīðêÎŞöLj ļêĕÎī ÎŞöLjÁļŰūĒ Îijð ļIJIJŰijĕūƌ ƆļŞĨ öūêǂǑǂ GÎƅö ŞöīöƅÎijū öƋśöŞĕöijêö ƆļŞĨĕijČ ƆĕūĒ ƌļŰijČ śöļśīöǂ ö ċīöƋĕéīö Îijð ÎƅÎĕīÎéīö ūļ ƆļŞĨ Îū ŤĒļŞū ijļūĕêöǂ ĒĕŤ śļŤĕūĕļij Ɔĕīī éö Î IJĕijĕIJŰIJ ļċ Ʈ ĒļŰŞŤ śöŞ ƆööĨǂ

A panel will be created from which future vacancies may be filled ĪöÎţö ţöIJð êĻƄöŝĕIJČ ĪöŪŪöŝ ÎIJð º ŪĻ IJöƅıÎŝħöŪÎċŪöŝţêĒĻĻĪţȉĕŝððůĒÎĪĪĻƅƻêĻı

Coláiste Treasa Community Assistance !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

ACCOUNTING

We at Coláiste Treasa are aware of the potential difficulties facing our community as a result of the Covid 19 pandemic.

CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNT ACCOUNTANTS ANTS Specialising in providing accountancy & taxation services for individual and small & medium sized businesses Meetings by appointment at our RIÀFHV LQ .LOODUQH\ 5DWKPRUH )RU D IUHH FRQVXOWDWLRQ TXRWDWLRQ FRQWDFW 'HQLV 0XUSK\ DW 064 6650963 or LQIR# GMPDFFRXQWLQJ LH

Our Transition year students would like to of fer their assistance to any member of our community who may be unable to leave their homes.

We are willing to help in any way- big or small by offfe We ering services such as

Shopping (fuel/household)

Prescription collection

Meal delivery

Newspaper drop

Post office trips

Library books

We will be adhering to strict HSE guidelines are all times We Iff you or someone you know needs an any y support, then please contact our school and we will organise it ffo or you.

Contact Liz

029 - 50062 or Email: colaiste.trre easa@corrk ketb.ie

Issue 30 November 20, 2020

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Job Centre

Tips for working at home Some of us are new to working from home or still getting used to this new way of working. It is normal to feel bored, anxious and uncertain. These simple tips can help you to feel more productive and take care of your mental health in these difficult times.

1. Routine n Schedule your day so that you can separate work and personal time. n Follow your normal sleep and work patterns if you can – stay consistent. n Set your alarm to get up at the same time, eat breakfast, and get out of your pyjamas! n Use your usual commute time for exercising, reading or listening to music before logging in. n Lunch breaks can help to refocus and improve your productivity. n Set a time to get fresh air or go for a walk or if you're feeling stiff or tense, try doing some light stretching or exercise.

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By JACKIE KELLY When your workday stops, stop working. Shut down, stop checking emails and focus on your home life. n Try to get to bed at your usual time if possible.

2. Workspace n Have a dedicated and organised workspace, a quiet space away from distractions like the TV, social media or even the kitchen if you can. n Before you start ensure you have everything you need. It can be tempting to sit on the couch but it's much better to sit at a desk or table. n If you do not have office furniture like an adjustable chair, try using things like cushions to support you in your chair, or a box as a footrest. n If you are looking after children whilst trying to work, be sure to have n

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a conversation with work about those realities.

3. Stay connected n Human interactions matter, so keep in touch by scheduling video calls and pick up the phone instead of just emailing. n If you're struggling with working at home, speak to your colleagues or manager about your concerns. n Your colleagues probably feel the same as you! Ask how they're doing and whether there are ways you can support each other. n Make time to socialise virtually – schedule in a digital coffee break or on a Friday maybe have an online get together.

For more tips on working from home, visit www.revenue.ie/en/jobsand-pensions/eworking/index.aspx g Call Jackie Kelly on 029-60633 or email jackie.kelly@irdduhallow.com.

Issue 30 November 20, 2020

Career guidance & wellbeing

Keeping your child on track g By DEIRDRE

O’KEEFFE, M Ed and guidance counsellor This academic year, senior students must be able to transition from in-person classes to online classes with very little notice. With this uncertainty in mind for several reasons, they may not find themselves as motivated or as productive as they should be. They should set up a personal schedule, establish a routine and at all times communicate with their teachers.

Students, you have spent years in school, think back to when you started junior infants. Now you are on the last furlong, the end goal is in sight, so give yourself a chance to be the best version of yourself, you’re worth it!

Here is a Five-Step ACTION Plan – a weekly schedule that needs to be balanced: 1. Create a designated study space, a study environment, preferably not your bedroom. Try to reserve your bedroom for your relaxation, it’s your haven. If possible, have a designated area for study. Keep your desk free from clutter, have a personal journal on your desk, with your daily goals and tasks.

2. Establish a routine – Four S’s: School, Study, Sport, Socialisation.

Create a weekly schedule in four blocks as follows; n School: n Study: In-person or online.

Treat study as formally as school, have breakfast, get dressed.

Psychologically, it’s imperative to physically prepare yourself for study.

Effective students focus on one task at a time, so don’t study while replying to texts, watching TV, checking your Twitter feed. Put away your mobile, or turn on airplane mode, turn off notifications on your phone etc.

Issue 30 November 20, 2020

It’s important to have a designated workspace where you can focus on studies n Perhaps set up a small tutorial group or pod online, have informal discussions on specific subject topics, set a topic, set a fixed time eg. 30 minutes and each member to input. This can have multiple benefits, as well as helping your study, it also enables you to stay connected with your peers. n Sport / exercise: It’s not just good for your body, it’s very good for your brain. Try 20 minutes of some exercise a day. Brian O’Driscoll, Ireland’s charismatic rugby player, advises: “You will never have mental strength without physical strength.”

• Socialisation: Build in some social time in your schedule. Connect with friends on Facetime, best done by setting aside a time when you are less productive. We all need to feel we belong, to feel accepted. As a teacher, I often found that 6th year can be very isolating for students.

In the current climate, this is a challenging time for some of your peers, so perhaps you could be more mindful of extending a hand of friendship, a little act of kindness, send a care text to someone in your class, make an effort to include others.

3. Career focus: Come back to your goals, your dreams. What is your plan to achieve this? Further

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education, courses, training, look at the options. There are thousands of paths, take the one that best represents your goals. Make an appointment with your career guidance teacher, who will help you clarify this vision. This is essential in keeping you motivated and focused during your Leaving Cert year.

4. Sleep and nutrition: Research shows that if you get enough sleep, at least eight hours a night, you’ll be more focused, you’ll learn faster, your memory will improve, and you will deal with stress more effectively.

Eat well and drink plenty of water, as University of East London researchers have found that your brain’s overall mental processing power decreases when you’re dehydrated. Drink at least eight glasses of water a day.

5. Evaluation. At the end of each night, spend 10 minutes looking back over your day. Connect with yourself, sit in silence. Take some time alone from all the noise. Look back over your journal and honestly evaluate your day. g Deirdre O’Keeffe’s next article will be on the importance of career focus for young people. Deirdre is a guidance counsellor with 28 years’ experience in education, and a mother of four adult children. She can be reached via email at deirdrecokeeffe@gmail.com.

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Vacancies

IRD Duhallow wishes to recruit an Accountant IRD Duhallow is a community-based integrated rural development company that was established in 1989. The Company delivers a number of programmes directed at all aspects of the rural economy and population, among them LEADER, SICAP, Environment, training and a wide range of services to the elderly, low income, youth and unemployed. IRD Duhallow operates in North West Cork, South East Kerry and Mid Cork.

Responsibilities • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Manage the preparation of the management accounts, including analysis of accounts, journal postings, balance sheet reconciliation and other processing.

Support in the improvement of processes and practices across the company.

Assist with interim and year end audit, including preparation of year end audit file, liaising with the audit team and preparation of year end reporting Weekly & Monthly Apportionment and Cost Analysis of a Number Programmes Assist all company stakeholders with any queries which may arise.

Preparation and monitoring of cash flow projections.

Preparation and monitoring of annual budgets.

Weekly & Monthly Payroll Month End Financial Reports Compiling Reports to the Finance Committee, Board, Pobal and Various Departments Maintenance of day to day account procedures, bank, fee debtors, creditors, receipts Procurement procedure for Public funding Credit control.

Maintenance of the Debtors & Creditors Ledgers particularly in relation to the accounting treatment for grant aid and public funds.

Preparation of VAT returns Ad Hoc duties that may be required on a day to day basis.

Required Education, Skills & Qualifications • • • • • •

Accounting Qualification with ACCA /CPA 4 years’ experience desirable.

Ability to plan and prioritise Ability to lead a team Excellent communication & IT skills to include Advanced Excel and Sage High Level of Written & Oral English Required

Salary commensurate with Experience. Company pension included.

This position will be a fixed term contract based on a 39-hour week but flexibility of hours may be required. The position will be located at the James O’Keeffe Institute, Newmarket, Co. Cork.

A panel will be created from which future vacancies maybe filled.

Please forward a full CV and letter of application to: Maura Walsh, Manager, IRD Duhallow CLG., James O’Keeffe Institute, Newmarket, Co. Cork or email duhallow@irdduhallow.com to arrive no later than 5.30pm on the 30th November, 2020.

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Issue 30 November 20, 2020

Vacancies

IRD Duhallow is Recruiting a Development Officer to work on our Ability Programme: Duties include: ꞏ ꞏ ꞏ ꞏ ꞏ ꞏ ꞏ ꞏ ꞏ

ꞏ ꞏ ꞏ ꞏ ꞏ

ꞏ . ꞏ ꞏ ꞏ

Support individuals and groups with a disability to tackle the barriers to participation in employment & training.

To engage with communities and businesses to support those with a disability to return to work or education and training.

Devise and support Enterprise Development Programmes for the growing micro and community business sector.

Manage recruitment of participants and the operational and end-phases of the Ability Programme.

Establish services, support structures and innovative outreach strategies.

Co-ordinate and provide intensive, client-focused, one to one supports.

Develop an enhanced understanding and awareness of the target group members distant from the labour market among employers & stakeholders.

Support, develop and source training courses to meet participant’s needs.

Implement a system of one to one facilitation, co-ordinate training, oversee job placements and support the implementation of special initiatives in Duhallow to identify and address barriers to participation.

Implement a monitoring system to track the barriers to programme delivery, animation/tracking of target group and programme successes and document same.

Implementation of internal evaluation mechanism to track participants.

Work with key stakeholders (agencies/groups/businesses and industries) to facilitate service providers to respond to the needs of the target group.

Promote and enable equality of opportunities, and promote the diverse needs and aspirations of those distant from the labour market .

Inform the development of a model of participant-informed collaboration between voluntary, community-based partnership, disability organisations and the statutory sector which has the capacity to be mainstreamed.

Prepare monthly activity and achievement reports for presentation to the Chief Executive and Working Group to the Board.

Prepare a quarterly strategic report to feed into the Working Group report to Board and Dept.

Work closely with Development Officers in delivering all programme supports.

Any other duties commensurate with the post.

Operate within the agreed budget and provide monthly financial reports.

The ideal candidate should possess: ꞏ ꞏ ꞏ ꞏ ꞏ

A relevant third level qualification preferably at Masters Level.

Excellent administration, IT and report writing skills.

Excellent facilitation, communication and interpersonal skills.

A commitment to equality, social inclusion and rural and community development processes and principles.

The ability to work as part of a team.

Apply in writing enclosing a copy of most recent CV to: Maura Walsh, CEO, IRD Duhallow, James O’Keeffe Institute Newmarket, Co Cork or email letter of application and current CV to duhallow@irdduhallow.com to arrive not later than close of business 30th November, 2020

IRD DUHALLOW IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES EMPLOYER

Issue 30 November 20, 2020

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Feature

‘ACORN TO Margaret O’Callaghan with her husband, Rockchapel man Jessie, who has always supported her charitable work

Two of Margaret O’Callaghan’s inspirational heroes, Caitriona Twomey above, and Fr Martin McCormack below

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This year has been difficult for everyone in our communities, especially the elderly and vulnerable, but thanks to Margaret O'Callaghan this was made a little easier for many people locally and all over Cork, writes Paulina Breen.

Margaret is originally from County Limerick but is well settled into Cork life, married to Rockchapel man Jessie, proud mother to Paudie, Noelie, Katie and Geoffrey and busy grandmother to Natasha, Caoimhe and Billy.

Margaret works tirelessly helping others in any way she can. Her work is often only known to the people she helps. However, she was named Cork’s Inspirational Hero at the recent Gala Retail and Virgin Media Inspirational Awards.

I was delighted to be given the opportunity to catch up Margaret after her recent Hero award and find out a little more about her and all her work.

How does it feel to receive a county hero award?

I was thrilled, surprised, proud – a mixture of all those emotions! Of course while I have received an individual award for instigating an idea to help people less fortunate than most in society, the reality is the idea would not have come to fruition were it not for so many people. My family supported me to develop the idea, Kilbrin GAA immediately supported the idea along with the people of the parish. Equally, when neighbouring parishes were contacted they all willingly rowed in. I know it's a cliché but I really accept the award on behalf of all who supported the venture.

What is most satisfying for me is that it all began when I suggested to Kilbrin GAA and Ben O’Dea, Chairman of Kilbrin Community Council, that we should do something to support those in our community

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who were forced to coccoon. We got volunteers from all sides of the parish to do home baking and we delivered it to the coccooners over eight consecutive Sundays.

While things 'moved on' they were very difficult times for many people. It was the suggestion by a few of those recipients that they would like to give something back and that prompted me to come up with the idea of a rolling fundraising for Cork Penny Dinners. The rest as they say is history but I am reminded of the saying about the small acorn growing into an enormous oak tree.

Why do you think local people nominated you?

Now that's a tough one to answer. I suppose I did something right in their eyes but to me it was just doing my bit for people in a time of crisis, which I believe we all should do without expecting anything in return. I thank Catherine, Siobhán and Ben for submitting the nomination. I really appreciate it guys.

Who is a hero you admire and why?

The amazing Caitriona Twomey of Cork Penny Dinners is the real Cork Hero, exceptional for all the great work she does for those in need and for the homeless. Caitriona is a woman in a million and how she carries on from day to day is beyond me, I have often called her on the phone only to hear her in tears at the other end of the line having lost a homeless person on the street or someone to suicide. It's amazing the way she can carry that burden and still do the great work she does, to Caitriona they are all her family.

Another hero is my good friend Fr. Martin McCormack, a native of Ballydesmond. Fr. Martin managed nine schools in Eswatini with 5,000 young people, 36% of whom were orphans. He got schools fees and

Issue 30 November 20, 2020

Feature

O OAK’ feeding schemes in the schools. Built kitchens in each so they children get fed twice daily. During Covid months he organised food hampers for 300 families on Saturdays. He built several new classrooms in rural schools, put in home economics classrooms and computer classrooms with aid from Intel in the USA. He built a 25-unit AIDS hospice, each unit takes the sick person and a family carer and they train carers and send about 50% home each year, the rest die of AIDS-related illnesses mostly because they came to them late in the journey.

Fr. Martin also ran a leadership academy training 1,500 young people in leadership skills each year. One of his MA’s is in leadership.

He set up a women’s empowerment centre against gender based violence after one of his young female teachers was murdered He ran Manzini Athletic Club (MAC) in Swaziland that has had two athletes at the last two Olympics, the World Championships, they have the All Africa best sprinter and the first ever female high jumper as All Africa champion. Fr. Martin is Rector Superior of our ageing and sick provincial community in Dublin – an appointment from Rome.

That's only half the story of my inspirational heroes. Two very selfless people.

What was the biggest obstacle locals have faced with Covid-19 and how has this been helped?

The biggest obstacle of course is to stay safe and free from the virus and to survive mentally. There are some wonderful people in Kilbrin who are always on hand to give a helping hand when needed. I think people are used to the restrictions and look forward to the day when we'll get more freedom but I also think the clock has gone round full circle and

Issue 30 November 20, 2020

How an idea grew into a huge Covid drive and led to award the games we played as children are now what our grandchildren are playing, it's nearly back to the olden days when walking or cycling were the mode of transport. Some people who were living a comfortable life this time last year are now depending on Covid payments and there's absolutely nothing wrong with that and it shows that we should take nothing for granted and equally important is – ask for help if you need it.

To me, Covid has made it absolutely clear that we are all the same no matter what our status is in life, whether you're a white collar worker or homeless, Covid doesn't discriminate.

Maybe that's one lesson we can take from it, everyone is equal.

What advice would you give people on how to help others in a meaningful way?

I'd say to people to never be afraid to help and don't do anything for self gain. We all need someone's help at some stage and I believe there is no exception to that rule. In a few simple words: Give and take.

‘

Margaret O’Callaghan started an initiative to help the elderly and vulnerable during lockdown

To me, Covid has made it absolutely clear that we are all the same no matter what our status is in life

’

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Duhallow news

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Issue 30 November 20, 2020

Artist in the frame

HOBBY TO CRAFT Artist DANNY O’CONNOR is based in Kiskeam, Co Cork The DanTimPaddy Arthouse was created by me, Danny O'Connor as a hobby in 2013. It is so named in honour of my Dad, Tim O'Connor, and Grandfather, Paddy, and is based in North Cork.

Illustration has always been an interest and I was always motivated to draw and paint, sometimes straight from my imagination or inspired by the countryside around us. I think my motivation always came from the desire to improve on my previous picture. (Sometimes our harshest critic is ourselves).

The medium I enjoy most for landscapes would be oils and acrylics, while for portraits I prefer graphite pencils.

I have also painted a couple of murals which were totally different to work on but very enjoyable. While quite daunting, murals are very rewarding when everything scales correctly and you can see your work in the open in natural light.

I prefer to paint/draw straight from my mind, as sometimes I may have memories that weren’t captured on film and (after a lot of practice) it’s great to see these memories taking shape on the sheet in front of me.

I would be delighted to talk about my paintings or discuss turning a photo into an original painting. Paintings can be supplied unframed or framed.

To see more of my work, please visit and follow my Facebook page @dantimpaddyarthouse or to make contact with me, email me at dantimpaddyarthouse@gmail.com/

Issue 30 November 20, 2020

Artist Danny O’Connor pictured in front of his mural of 'Jerry Mac's Forge' in Kiskeam Village Photo by Sheila Fitzgerald

Above, Kiskeam Church; right, Kanturk Castle

Left, ‘Majesty’s Winter’; above, ‘Winter Reflections’ info@discoverduhallow.com

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Agriculture by Michael O'Connor Project Scientist, Blue Dot Catchments EIP at IRD Duhallow Clg

FARM DIVERSIFICATION On-farm diversification offers traditional Irish farm households an opportunity to increase or supplement their income despite the hostile markets that exists for farmers today.

As well as income, there are many other reasons why a farmer may choose to diversify their farming operation such as a desire for greater independence and control, entrepreneurial drive or the inability to compete with large-scale intensive agriculture.

The development of short food supply chains is a type of farm diversification that has been attracting a lot of attention from both producers and consumers in recent times. Short food supply chains shorten the food supply chain by reducing the number of middlemen (if not all the middlemen) involved in getting the product from farm to fork.

Doing so ensures the farmer receives a fair price for their produce, a concept that has been forgotten by our current food system!

Short food supply chains also benefit the planet by reducing food miles, and consumers by providing them with access to healthy, sustainable and locally-produced food. These are qualities that are becoming ever more in-demand.

A classic example of a short food supply chain is the farmers’ market, where the farmer can sell their produce directly to their local community usually at a weekly event. Similarly, direct selling is an example of diversification, where produce is sold from a farm shop or from the farm gate.

However, technology has allowed for the development of several new forms of short food supply chains that allow producers to access a far wider customer-base and to keep selling during Covid-19.

Cork enterprise Neighbourfood is an example of an online short food

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The local farmers’ market is a classic example of a short food supply chain

supply chain. Neighbourfood is an increasingly popular online selling platform that provides famers with an opportunity to sell directly to consumers. It was set up in Cork City in 2018 and has since expanded all over Ireland and even into the UK. In Cork alone there are now 17 online markets, with many producers selling into several different markets. How it works is simple: 1. Producers sign up and become verified as a producer; 2. They then select what markets they would like to supply to (e.g.

Mallow, Killarney and Cork City) and input what produce they would like to sell; 3. Customers place their orders online; 4. Producers then bring exactly what has been ordered to a collection point;

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‘

Technology has allowed for the development of several new forms of short food supply chains that allow producers to access a far wider customer-base and to keep selling during Covid-19

’

5. Customers collect their orders from the host market.

Producers take home 80% of all sales (excluding VAT) with the remaining 20% going to a commission and to the market host (e.g. Mercy Centre, Mallow).

The platform is not limited to agri-food, with producers selling anything from soap to pastries, wine to jam. If you are interested in becoming a producer or a customer you can find more details by logging on to their website at www.neighbourfood.com/

Issue 30 November 20, 2020

Vet Corner

Long walks not good for puppies I’ll cut to the chase with the point of today’s article: Although puppies may be full of beans, please remember that they are not super-human marathon runners.

All too often, I see young little puppies out on very long walks with their owners. I can understand the temptation – you have a bounding little four-legged pal to keep you company on your countryside rambles, eager to sniff, dig and pee on all of the exciting smells of the great outdoors. You might think that with all of their energy they could keep walking for hours on end, that burning off a little energy with an extra long walk might mean you get a little peace and quiet to relax undisturbed by puppy later that evening.

I hate to break it to you, but over

Issue 30 November 20, 2020

g By JANE PIGOTT GP vet & Consultant Veterinary Cardiologist

exercising your puppy is likely to cause long term damage to their fragile, developing bones and joints, which will eventually lead to lameness and discomfort in later life, if not sooner. Until their bodies are fully developed, which can range

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from 10-12 months in a small breed and up to 14-18 months of age in giant breed dogs, their skeletons are not strong enough to withstand large volumes of exercise. You wouldn’t ask a toddler to run a marathon, so please don’t ask your puppy to either.

A question I am (thankfully) often asked is – ‘how much should I be walking my puppy?’ A good rule of thumb is five minutes per month of age twice a day. For example, a three-month-old puppy should have a 15-minute walk twice daily, whereas a six-month-old puppy should be safely able to manage a half an hours’ ramble in the woods twice a day. So go for your stroll, but don’t make those little lightning speed puppy legs work too hard to keep up.

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Duhallow Career Guidance Q & A

THE LIFE OF... A TEACHER AEDÍN MCAULIFFE is a secondary school English and Irish teacher in Davis College, Mallow 1. What is your job like?

Teaching is a very enjoyable and varied job. You have to adapt to different groups of students and subjects numerous times a day.

Teaching various subjects and levels means that you have to be organised and well prepared in advance so there is plenty of work to be done during free periods and at night time.

Because of Covid-19, the students are mainly based in home rooms so there is a lot of walking between classes dragging a heavy bag this year, and with a brand new three storey extension as well as the old building, my school is huge! I am also doing much more work online. There is a common misconception that a teacher’s working day ends when the last bell rings but that is rarely the case. I would spend time most evenings either correcting work or preparing for the following day.

2. What subjects did you most enjoy in school/college?

I was always an avid reader so my favourite subject was English, but I loved French and German too in secondary school. In college I studied English, Irish, French and German in first year with a view to taking English and French to degree level, however I discovered my love of Irish quite unexpectedly in UCC and decided to pursue that alongside English.

3. How did you arrive at your current position?

After my degree, I completed the H.Dip. in Education (now PME), also in UCC. I began my career in Midleton CBS in East Cork, and then I moved to Germany for a number of years where I initially taught English in the German school system. Then I was lucky enough to get to work in a European school, which is similar to an international school, where I

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Considering what career path to take? This series of Q&A interviews with Duhallow professionals offers candid insights into what the job really entails...

taught English and Human Science (a combination of History and Geography). When I returned to Ireland I got my present job in Davis College where I have been teaching for eight years now.

4. Have you any regrets?

My one regret educationally is that I didn’t put in more of an effort with maths when I was at school! I never really liked it so to be honest I did the bare minimum and I’m sorry now that I didn’t try harder. I’ve learned over the years that it’s good to push yourself out of your comfort zone so I do regret not doing that with maths.

5. What do you love most?

There are many things I really enjoy about teaching; firstly, the interaction with my students. I always find the first couple of weeks with a new class a bit awkward as we are all getting used to each other, but once they have adapted to my ways and we are in the swing of things it’s nice to develop a rapport. It’s lovely to carry a group through from First Year to Leaving Cert – there is great satisfaction in seeing their progress over the years. They come in as children and leave as young adults, so witnessing that transformation is interesting. Secondly, as an English teacher I love being able to teach some of my favourite texts and poems, and there is lots of freedom to be self-indulgent in that regard!

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6. What do you love least?

As English and Irish both involve a lot of writing, there is always plenty of marking to be done which can be very time consuming. There is also pressure to complete the courses in exam years – I am always panicking that I won’t get everything done in time!

7. Advice for students hoping for a career in your field?

Pick subjects that you love and enjoy studying. If you have the opportunity to go on work experience, try to do it in a school so that you can see what being a teacher is really like before committing to the time and expense of the PME. Make the most of every opportunity that comes your way and try to get as much experience as possible in your subject areas. For example, when I was a student I worked as a ceannaire in an Irish college every summer which helped to improve my Irish, and later on I corrected Junior Cert English exams for a few years, giving me a great insight into the marking scheme and syllabus. Picking a core subject is often the best way to secure a job when you’re qualified as there can be a surplus of teachers in some areas.

At the moment there is a shortage of Irish teachers so that is a good subject to pick if you have an aptitude for it. You also need to be flexible and willing to learn – the list of prescribed texts for English changes very often so I frequently encounter new material that I have to initially study myself and then prepare lessons and resources for. I also find that what works with one class may not necessarily work with another so I have to come up with different ideas and strategies to try to help them, therefore a certain amount of creativity and adaptability is needed too.

Issue 30 November 20, 2020

Health & beauty

Sleep: A neglected essential Sleep is one of, if not the biggest, determinants of overall health that people often neglect, writes Daniel Daly, manager and personal trainer at Millstreet Gym. A study by Nedeltcheva et al.

(2010) found by simply reducing sleep from 8.5 hours to 5.5 hours a night, led to 55% less fat lost. Of course, overall energy balance is still the biggest deciding factor between weight loss and weight gain, but reductions in sleep can affect where the weight loss occurs (fat vs muscle tissue).

The scientific consensus, is that between 7 to 9 hours or 5-6 sleep cycles per night is sufficient.

Links have been shown between sleep deprivation from shift work and work place accidents, type 2 diabetes, weight gain, coronary heart disease, stroke and cancer,

as shown in a review by Kecklund et al. (2016). Sure there are supplements such as Melatonin, 5-HTP, Zinc and Magnesium that can be used to help aid with sleep – but if you haven’t covered the basics of sleep hygiene first and foremost, it would be the equivalent of buying an air-freshener for a car with no wheels.

Having similar sleep and wake times, morning daylight exposure,

eliminating caffeine intake after midday and cutting out blue light exposure from electronic devices two hours before bed are all very simple and free ways of increasing sleep quality.

If you would like to learn more about sleep hygiene and what you can do to improve it, I have put together a free 10-page ebook at the following link: https://bit.ly/ danieldalycoachingsleepmanual

How to winter-proof your skin Colder temperatures, harsh winds, central heating and dry air reduce the natural moisturising factors (NMF's) in our skin, leading to dehydration, roughness and flakiness. Eczema, psoriasis and rosacea sufferers will notice this more than others, when moving from centrally heated environments into the biting cold. Car heaters will also play havoc with our NMF's. Making changes to your skincare routine will help prevent dull and dry skin as we move into the colder months. n Protect with fatty acids: Increase healthy fats in your diet such as nuts, seeds, oily fish and include an omega oil supplement such as Skin Omegas + from the Advanced Nutrition Programme. I like to describe fatty acids as bubble wrap for your skin cells to minimise dehydration. As fatty acids are ingested, these work on your whole body, meaning lips, hands and face

Issue 30 November 20, 2020

By JOANNE GUINEY are all treated at once.

Remember, your skin is a double-sided organ, fed by your blood supply, so ingest the right foods and supplements, and your skin will thank you for it. n Use products specifically designed to retain moisture - my top winter product recommendations: 1. Use a comforting cleanser, either Environ's Skin EssentiA Mild Cleansing Lotion or Youth EssentiA Hydra-Intense Cleansing Lotion.

These will remove impurities and make-up, without stripping the natural oils from the skin, while also maintaining the natural pH balance and moisture levels.

2. Avoid harsh exfoliation: With exfoliation we remove the skin's fine protective layer and water can easily escape. A safer alternative is to use

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exfoliators with Alpha Hydroxy-Acids (AHAs) which gently dissolve the 'glue' between cells and are much kinder to the skin's protective layer.

Environ's Derma-Lac lotion or Skin EssentiA Botanical Infused Moisturising Toner are among my favourites.

3. Environ's Skin EssentiA or Youth EssentiA moisturisers, which contain active levels of Vitamin A, can enhance production of ceramides to keep the skin moisturised at the correct level. Environ's Super Moisturiser, is a great tool to have in your kit, especially now, it will strengthen, promote hydration, fight stress and oxidation.

Your skin is unique to you and consultation is always recommended when using a medical grade skincare line like Environ. If you would like to learn more you can contact me on 0879801404. I am an Environ skin care specialist and Advanced Nutrition Programme stockist.

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Birdwatch Dipper Photo by Mike Brown

Irish Name: Breacóg Scientific name: Calidris alpina Bird family: Waders Status: Winter visitor and passage migrant Identification: The more usually encountered winter plumage bird shows a rather non-descript, uniform, plain brownish-grey on all

Irish Name: Gabha dubh Scientific name: Cinclus cinclus Bird family: Dippers Status: Resident along rocky streams and rivers Identification: Slightly smaller than a blackbird, appears very compact and dumpy. Habitually bobs up and down when perched.

upperparts and cold white underparts. It is a rather dumpy bird, with black legs and a longish bill which downcurves slightly. Often occurs in very large flocks.

An important bird to get to know (in all its plumages) if you want to successfully identify other similar-sized waders.

Flies low over the water.

Adults are reddish-brown with a large ‘bib’ of white on the throat and breast. Also has a broad rusty brown patch where the white bib ends on the breast. Juvenile dippers have the grey plumage tones and the the white bib reduced to a small area on the throat.

Dunlin Photo by birdwatchireland

Visit https://birdwatchireland.ie and https://www.duhallowlife.com/raptor-life Grey wagtail Photo by Michael Finn

Irish Name: Naoscach bhídeach Scientific name: Lymnocryptes minimus Bird family: Waders Status: Winter visitor Identification: A tiny version of the common snipe. Almost never seen on the ground, as it will sit tight, crouching low, until nearly stepped on,

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Irish Name: Glasóg liath Scientific name: Motacilla cinerea Bird family: Wagtails Status: A widespread resident along fast flowing streams and rivers Identification: Slightly larger than pied wagtail. A very striking bird, with the dark grey head and back offfset

before exploding into the air and then landing usually a short distance away (snipe tend to fly well away after being disturbed). A combination of this behaviour and its obvious small size is usually how Jack snipe are identified. The straight bill is much shorter than a snipe's and the wings neater and blunter.

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by extensive yellow on the breast, belly and vent. The rump is also bright yellow.

Grey Wagtails also have a black throat, as well as a white stripe through the eye.

The beak and legs are dark grey, the latter with a pinkish tinge. The yellow wash on the lower body is less intense on females.

Jack snipe Photo by Alastair Rae

Issue 30 November 20, 2020

Feature

SAVE OUR POLLINATORS The towns of Kanturk, Carrigaline, Kinsale, Bantry, Macroom and Fermoy are set to become brighter and more bee friendly with the anticipated roll-out of Cork County Council’s Pollinator Plans.

These plans guide the Council’s management of publicly owned spaces within the towns, to ensure bees, and other insects that helpfully pollinate our flowering plants, are encouraged and supported.

Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Mary Linehan Foley, welcomed the initiative saying,“We’ve seen the Midleton Pollinator Plan become a great success with some surprising results like the appearance of rare orchids, and I’m delighted to see that six more Cork towns are to follow suit. Sadly, the populations of many of our pollinator species are declining, with about one third of our native bee species threatened with extinction.

“We all know the importance of bees to food production. This is a timely mitigation from Cork County Council and will be a boost of beauty to each town. I look forward to seeing all the bright pollinator plants blooming in these towns come Spring.”

Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Tim Lucey, commented, “Cork County Council is identifying and implementing new strategies for the management of public spaces in

our towns, to promote biodiversity and provide food and habitats for our wild pollinator species, which are an essential component of a healthy environment.

“The Pollinator Plans are being led by a consultant ecologist and are inspired by the success of the first Town Pollinator Plan in the county, prepared by Cork County Council for Midletonin 2019. We hope to extend the project to include additional towns in the coming years.”

Pollinator Plans for Kanturk, Carrigaline, Kinsale, Bantry, Macroom and Fermoy will see existing habitats of high value for

pollinators identified and protected; the variety and extent of flowering plants available to pollinators increased, with less intensive approaches to management of grass cutting in our parks, roadside verges and other green spaces; new pollinator friendly planting proposals; and the creation of new nesting habitats for pollinators.

Funded by the National Biodiversity Action Plan fund and Cork County Council, and in collaboration with community groups in each of the six towns, pollinator friendly strategies will be developed in accordance with AllIreland Pollinator Plan Guidelines.

PLENTY OF WAYS FOR YOU TO DO YOUR BIT! n Let the dandelions bloom: wait until late April to do the first grass cut. This allows some dandelions to flower, providing bees with much needed food in the spring. n Avoid using pesticides along roadside verges or at the base of trees: strim instead, or

Issue 30 November 20, 2020

let the grass here grow to provide food for pollinators. n Protect hedgerows, dry stone walls and earth banks: especially when south facing. These areas are important nesting sites for solitary bees. Avoid using pesticides on these areas. n Create a ‘6-week meadow’: cut

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small areas or strips of grass on a six-week rotation to provide more wildflowers for pollinators. n Log your actions: if you take any pollinator-friendly measures, please log them on the publicly available mapping system, Actions for Pollinators at the following web address: https:// pollinators.biodiversityireland.ie

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Kids’ Corner

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Issue 30 November 20, 2020

Sport

Duhallow Sports Greats Q & A 1. What/who inspired you to become a sportsperson in your field?

Bill Guiney, a native of Meelin now living in Ballydesmond, was my role model.

2. What was the moment that you knew you were on the right track?

I was always interested in running. The first race I competed in was an Open Cross-Country in Ballydesmond and I finished in 3rd place. That's the moment I knew I had the potential, I never looked back after that..

3. What is your greatest strength?

Persistence, good stamina and long, deceptive strides.

4. What is your greatest sporting achievement?

First, the All-Ireland Junior in 1976 where I also captained the Cork team that won the Inter-County, second in Ras na hEireann International 1978, and represented the Irish team in Paris on two occasions.

5. What is your greatest personal achievement?

I had so many great days representing club and country in road and track events.

6. What was the greatest challenge you faced in your career and how did you overcome it?

Keeping fit and injury free down through the years and managing a dairy farm all at the same time.

7. Who supported you the most in your career?

My fellow athletes and good training partners made it more fun and they made me more accountable and in athletics consistency is key.

8. What advice would you give to young players just starting out?

Not to over train when you are too young as there is a possibility

Issue 30 November 20, 2020

Jerh Murphy is a native of The Commons, Newmarket. Jerh grew up with an avid interest in sports, he travelled all over the country to running events from cross country to track and field events.

He ran in all conditions, even barefoot and won 32 All-Ireland medals, six county senior cross country and numerous road and track and field championships.

He was a winner of the Duhallow Sports Star in 1987. He started

you might give it up. Enjoy it and don't take it too seriously.

9. What do you do outside of sports?

Full-time farmer and avid follower of all sports and collector of old newspaper clippings.

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JERH MURPHY running with Meelin AC in 1969 for five years also with Grange/ Fermoy and Millstreet AC, eventually forming their own Duhallow AC club in 1997, where he is a vice chairman. The Jerh Murphy Perpetual Cup has been in existence since 2015 and is awarded to the winner of the Newmarket 5k.

10. What are your goals now?

I hope to remain in good health and celebrate many special days with my wife Eileen and family.

Watch my grandchildren grow up and hopefully get them interested and participating in sport.

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Twohig Group Kanturk Abbeyfeale & Askeaton THIS AS CHRISTM I t ’s g o t t o

HALF PRICE

be

€3.79 EA EACH CH SUPERV VAL ALU FRESH IRISH DICED CHICKEN PIECES 450g - €8.42/k kg g

€3.99 EA EACH CH SUPERV VAL ALU FRESH IRISH PIRI PIRI MINI CHICKEN FILLET SKEWERS 300g - €13.30/ kg

€3.99 EA EACH CH VAL ALU SUPERV FRESH IRISH BBQ P ORK SAUSAGES 5 PACK 454g €8.79/ kg

SuperValu SuperVa u Kiwi Net 6pce 6pc was 99c

SuperValu SuperV Lemon Net Ne 3pce 3pc was €1.10

49c

79c

SuperValu Onion Net 1kg

EACH

EACH

SuperValu Cucumber 1pce as 59c was

SuperValu Family y Apple Bag 10pce was €1.29

SuperValu Loose Green Pepper 1pce was 99c

€7.50

THIS CHRIST MAS

SuperValu Courgette Twin Pack 2pce was €1.19

2 FO R

€6

€10

€10

€10

S av e € 2 .7 9

Sa v e € 5.74

Sa v e € 5. 2 5

L A S MOR A S DADÁ 75cl w a s € 1 2 .79

C AMPO VIEJO RESERVA RIOJA 75cl w a s € 1 5.74

It ’s g o t t o be

SuperValu Signature Tastes Chocolate & Salted Caramel Sponge Pudding 450g - €16.67/kg

€4 EACH SuperValu Signature Tastes 9 Mini/6 All Butter Pastry Mince Pies 250g - 350g, €16/kg - €11.43/kg

BR ANCOTT ESTATE SAUVIGNON BL ANC 75cl w a s € 1 5. 25

Offerss v valid Thursday 19th November - Wednesday 25th November 2020, unless ottherwise stated.

Prices correc ect at time of going to print. Offers available whil while stocks last. Customer quotas may apply. Enjo Enjoy alcohol responsibly.