FROM BANTEER TO KYIV
Ordinary People, Extraordinary Effort: Aid Mission to Ukraine
Neil Vaughan, a native of Banteer, is one of a growing number of ordinary people who have chosen to take extraordinary action and deliver vital humanitarian aid to Ukraine.
Twelve days ago, I was part of a team of volunteers which drove to Kyiv in a convoy of 6 vehicles loaded with humanitarian aid. We were accompanied by a Limerick man in his personal Transit van also loaded with humanitarian
aid. We all returned safely to Dublin via Chisinau Airport in Moldova on Monday 13th of April having left from Rosslare Port in the aftermath of Storm Dave early Sunday morning the 5th of April for Dunkirk. Drivers paid their own way e.g. diesel, tolls, ferries, food, accommodation & flights home.
As Bealtaine arrives, we feel that unmistakable shift into summer here in Duhallow. Bealtaine, the national celebration of arts and creativity as we age, begins this month and brings with it a wonderful programme of events that invite people of all ages to get involved, get out and get inspired. We celebrate the start of a busy and hopeful summer full of activities across Duhallow. We encourage you to take part, support local, and enjoy everything the season has to offer. Here’s to a vibrant Bealtaine and a summer filled with warmth and creativity.
- Brendon
Duhallow
Fantastic Turnout for Newmarket Anti Litter Challenge
Newmarket shone bright last Saturday 25th April and it wasn’t just the sunny weather! Over 50 volunteers of all ages came together for the Newmarket Tidy Towns Anti-Litter Challenge and roamed around town picking up and bagging litter. We loved seeing so many generations out in their special high-vis vests, making a real difference. A big thanks to SuperValu for the refreshments and treats in the Story Garden - exactly what was needed after a busy morning! There will be a weekly town litter clean up, every Monday evening at 7.00pm from Monday 27th April, throughout the summer. If anyone wants to be part of this community venture, please email your details to tidytownsnewmarket@gmail.com.
Some of the results!
Duhallow News
Forestr y Knowledge Transfer Group KTG 2026
Don' t get lef t behind by a changing market . Sawmills are increasingly prioritizing certified timber.
Join our local Certification Focus Group now to prepare your forest for harvesting and ensure guaranteed market access.
EARN UP TO €560: Participants receive €80 per meeting (7 meetings total).
NEW 2026 RULES: You CAN join even if you participated in a KTG last year
FLEXIBLE: You can nominate a family member to attend in your place
Get expert guidance on securing the €1 , 200 iPLAN grant for your Forest Management Plan
Contact: David Hobbs 085 783 9645 Independent Forester
Congrats to Maria Humphreys Banteer who was a member of the Cork u-16 A Munster Final winners and this team didn’t disappoint with a brilliantly contested game of football with both teams leaving it all on the field of play until the final whistle. Here she is pictured with her parents Kevin and Anna, and brother Tuan
From the Family Farm to Poland: Eoin Cronin’s Journey to Becoming a Vet
From a family farm in Assolas, Kanturk to studying Veterinary Medicine in Poland, local student Eoin Cronin, made the move to pursue his dream career.
With UCD’s course requiring 589 points last year, many future Irish vets have ventured abroad to begin their studies.
He is in his 3rd Year of Veterinary Medicine in Wroclaw, Poland, and is joined by others from Duhallow including Clodagh O’Keefe (Newmarket) and Emma Sherlock (Cecilstown).
There are approximately 120 other Irish students in the city with the majority studying Veterinary, but there are also Dentistry and Medicine courses on offer.
The universities there are now fully accustomed to teaching
young Irish people, with everything taught through English, and in older years students can return home for internships.
As a result of all this, a huge Irish community and spirit has grown there and Irish people in the college have even developed a GAA club that is fully registered with Gaelic Games Europe.
Fundraising has been a big challenge for the small club and yet in the last two weeks they have received the backing of over 50 Irish businesses for almost €20,000 worth of prizes for a raffle organised to take place on May 16.
“There is a prize for everyone, including farm machinery, cash, hotel stays and Westlife tickets. Some local businesses such as Topline and the Post Office have
supported us too which is great to see” says Eoin.
The club has recently partnered with the Irish Veterinary Benevolent Fund as the support they received has far exceeded any expectations.
“This charity provides invaluable mental health services to vets, vet nurses and their dependents as unfortunately this line of work has one of the highest suicide rates”
Ticket sales close at Midnight, Friday 15th May, with the draw taking place on Saturday 16 May.
“We’re urging people to please support what we think are two very worthy causes” All information can be found on idonate.ie/raffle/weo or by scanning the QR code in the poster.
The Importance of Social Inclusion for Retired People in Rural Ireland
By LENORA KELLY
In rural regions of Ireland, retirement brings both opportunities and challenges. After decades of work and community involvement, many older people find themselves with more time but fewer structured opportunities for social interaction.
Social inclusion refers to ensuring that individuals feel connected, valued, and able to participate fully in their communities. For retired people in rural Ireland, this can make a profound difference. Without regular opportunities to engage with others, isolation can quickly set in. Loneliness is not simply an emotional issue—it is closely linked to physical and mental health outcomes, including increased risks of depression, cognitive decline, and chronic illness.
Organisations like IRD Duhallow play a vital role in addressing this challenge. Through communitybased initiatives, they create spaces where older people can come together, share experiences, and remain active participants in local life. Activities such as social gatherings, educational workshops, arts programmes, and cultural events provide structure and purpose, helping to replace the routine that employment once offered.
A key example of this is the
celebration of Bealtaine, Ireland’s national festival that honours creativity as we age. In IRD Duhallow, Bealtaine is marked with a vibrant programme of 19 events, offering opportunities for older people to engage in music, arts, storytelling, and community gatherings. These events are more than entertainment—they are a powerful expression of inclusion, bringing people together, strengthening friendships, and creating a sense of belonging. Supporting and attending these events is vital, as strong community participation ensures their continued success and impact.
Social inclusion also contributes to independence. When people remain socially connected, they are more likely to stay physically active, mentally engaged, and confident in managing their daily lives.
Importantly, inclusion is not only about organised events—it is about a broader culture of community awareness. Simple acts, such as regular checkins, inclusive communication, and ensuring that older voices are heard in local decision-making,
all contribute to a more supportive environment.
In IRD Duhallow, efforts to promote social inclusion reflect a recognition that community wellbeing depends on the participation of all its members. Retired people are not on the margins—they are central to the social fabric. By ensuring that they remain connected and valued, rural communities not only improve quality of life for older individuals but also preserve the richness, resilience, and continuity of local life.
Ultimately, social inclusion in rural Ireland is about more than reducing isolation. It is about sustaining communities, honouring experience, and ensuring that every stage of life is lived with dignity, purpose, and connection. Initiatives like Bealtaine highlight what is possible when communities come together— so showing support for these events is not just encouraged, but essential.
Annual Dawn mass.
Movie day with lunch held in IRD Duhallow
Duhallow
Munster Final Success For Boherbue Comprehensive.
Boherbue Comprehensive School claimed victory over Ennistymon CBS after a thrilling Munster U15 C Football Championship in TUS Limerick with a final score Boherbue Comprehensive 4-10 Ennistymon CBS 3-12. Team: Captain David Fleming (BK Plunketts), Michael Farrissey (Dromtariffe), Jason Ward (SLG), Aodhan O’Callaghan (SLG) Aidan Keohane (BK Plunketts), Danial Cronin (Duarigle Gaels), Padraig O’Connell (St. Marks), Conor Regan (Duarigle Gaels), Shane O’ Sullivan (Dromtariffe), Darragh Cronin (SLG), Evan Biggane (St. Marks), Cathal Hegarty (BK Plunketts), Ross O’ Callaghan (SLG), Sean O’ Sullivan (Dromtariffe), Fionn O’ Mahony (Dromtariffe). Subs: Gavin Moynihan (BK Plunketts), Aaron Lane (Dromtariffe).
Members of Mt Hillary AC presenting a cheque to Banteer Tidy Towns on Sat last at Banteer Sportsfield
From Diagnosis to Support: How Cancer Connect Helps Families When It Matters Most
Local woman Amanda Higgins tells us about her personal connection to Cancer Connect following her sister’s breast cancer diagnosis.
We are all too aware of how quickly life can change, but nothing truly prepares you for the moment a loved one is told they have cancer.
My family experienced this first-hand when my sister was diagnosed with breast cancer. Like many people, I quickly realised how little I knew — including the fact that there are seven different
types of breast cancer. I certainly didn’t know that before. With a diagnosis comes a seemingly endless stream of appointments. Hospital visits become part of everyday life, bringing with them new worries: how to get to each appointment, how to manage work and family commitments, and the growing financial pressures of fuel, parking, and travel costs.
This is where Cancer Connect makes such a profound difference. Once registered with the service, transportation to and from hospital appointments is taken care of — completely free of charge. Cancer Connect covers all of North Cork and all hospitals in Cork City, providing a reliable, friendly, and
stress-free transport service when it is needed most. The drivers are all volunteers, giving generously of their time, and I cannot thank each and every one of them enough.
To show our appreciation and to support this invaluable service, I will be running a street collection on Friday, 8 May. We will be out in force with our buckets around the town of Kanturk, raising both awareness and much-needed funds for Cancer Connect.
Any support, big or small, would be deeply appreciated. Services like Cancer Connect ease a real and immediate burden for families during one of the most difficult times of their lives — and that support truly makes a difference.
Mick Wall, a local man who drives as a volunteer for Cancer Connect, Kevin Higgins who is running in the Cork City Half-Marathon and Amanda Higgins
Gig Guide
What’s On In Duhallow
Kanturk
Weekly Newmarket
CYMS Hall
Newmarket Bridge Club
An Chultúrlann
Writers’ Circle
Time: 7:30pm
2nd Wednesday of Every Month
Share your stories, get inspired, and connect with fellow writers.For details, contact 087 640 6705
Rambling House
Time: 8pm
2nd Saturday of Every Month
An evening of traditional storytelling, music, and craic!
Newmarket Dementia Café
Time: 11am – 1pm
1st Thursday of each month. A welcoming place for people with dementia, their family and friends.
Social Dancing
Time: 9pm
Last Friday of Every Month –Dance the night away and meet new people!
Gneeveguilla
SHARE THE BUCKET
Time: 8:30PM, Every Friday Evening
Cost: Tickets €2 each or 3 for €5 Tickets: Are available at Teach Fáilte and can be bought online at https:// tinyurl.com/y2ade5om or in local businesses where you see the Green Share the bucket
Mushera Platform Dancing
May 17th Ballinagree Village
June 24th St John’s Night Mushera
July 26th Mushera
August 23rd Mushera
September 20th Balinagree village
Time: Every Tuesday at 7.30pm All members and newcomers are welcome. Contact Eugene on 086 3247041 for more information.
Taekwando
Time: Mondays at 5pm. Contact Niall on 0831106501 for more information.
Art & Drama Summer Camp
with Mike and Bríd
Time: 29th of June to the 3rdof July 10am to 1pm daily Price: €75 per child
The camp is suitable for 1st to 6th class children.Contact Mike on 0874124741 to book a place.
Julie Nolan School of Irish Dancing
Time: Every Tuesday classes from 4.15 to 7.30. Contact Julie on 086 3516386 for more information.
Catherine O'Reilly Exercise Class
Time: Tuesdays from 10 to 11am Contact Catherine on 087 6800280 to book your place.
Better Balance Staying Fit For The Future
Time: Tuesdays 11am to 12. with Cork Sports Initiative. Contact Catherine 087 6800280 to book your place.
Music Lessons With John
Time: Thursdays Upstairs in hall. Contact 0872322751 to book
Kanturk Ladies Social Soccer
Time: Wednesdays from 8-9pm
Venue: Gurteenard, Kanturk
For all ladies 16 years and upwards. Fun, Excersise, Friendship
Any queries text Laura at 807 468 1407
Edel Quinn Hall
Tuesdays
Dancing with Dan: 8 - 10pm. All welcome
Foróige Youth Club: 7- 8.30pm in the Foróige room located at the front of the hall. Young People aged 12-17yrs. New members welcome. Contact 087-2065296
Wednesdays
Bingo: 8 - 9.30pm. Single & 3 sheets = €15, Double & 3 sheets = €17, Double & 6 sheets = €22.
Thursdays
Taekwondo: 6-8pm. New members Welcome.
Sundays
Christian Worship Service: 11am Fountain Gate Christian Church Bingo at 2pm: Last Sunday of Every Month
Temperance Hall
Tuesdays
Kanturk Fly Fishing Club 7 - 9pm. New members welcome.
Wednesdays
Kanturk Flower Club: Meet the first Wednesday of every month at 8pm.
Pilates
Monday, Tuesday & Friday Mornings
Grow Mental Health Meeting in Kanturk
Time: Every Monday at 2pm (Except Bank Holidays)
Venue: Linn Gorm Hall, Kanturk, P51 YC57
Grow is a 12 Step Support Programme for any person coping,and living with stress, anxiety, depression, or any issue in your life, creating worry and concern. The Meetings are small in numbers, free to attend, relaxed, confidential, friendly and anonymous.
Banteer
Banteer Ladies Social Soccer
Time: Every Tuesday 8pm-9pm
Venue: Banteer Indoor Astroturf
For all ladies 16+. Fun, Exercise and Friendship. Any queries Text
Laura: 087 468 1407
Glen Theatre Banteer
April 16th
Steve Knightley In Concert
May 1st
Tommy Fleming
May 4th & May 10th
The Glen Theatre Drama Group Banteer presents: The Rain At The End Of The Summer, by John B. Keane
All shows at 8pm. Booking: www.glentheatrebanteer.ie/contact Phone 029 56239 (Ext 1)
Banteer Underage Soccer Camp
Time: Wed 22nd, Thurs 23rd and Fri 24th July
Millstreet
Clara Loop
IRD Duhallow are currently undertaking improvement works to The Clara Loop. We will endeavour to keep the trail open at all times. We ask all walkers to take caution and personal responsibility for your own safety. If you need any further info please call 029 60633
Cullen Pipe Band Annual Fundraiser
Time: Sunday, May 3rd after 9.30am
The band will perform after mass and the cake and flower sale will take place in the band hall right afterwards. Enjoy a tea or coffee and home made baking. Spring flowers and raffle tickets also on sale. https://www.idonate.ie/raffle/ CullenPipeBandAnnualRaffle
Tureencahill Community Centre Weekly Schedule
Monday: Yoga 6.45–7.45pm & 8–9pm (Contact Denise: 086 8901234)
Tuesday: Sean Nós Dance (Adults) 7–8pm, 6-week block (Contact Kieran: 085 1731073)
Wednesday:
Bridge 1–4pm, Kids Kickboxing 4.30–5.30pm (Maurz: 089 4010475)
Kids Set Dancing 6–7pm (Marie: 083 0045432)
Thursday: Monthly Pop-Up Gaeltacht Contact (086 3159744)
Friday:
Active Retired 12.30–2pm Yoga 7–8pm & 8.15–9.15pm (Men only)
(Contact Denise: 086 8901234) Enquiries: 085 8771949 tureencahillcg@gmail.com
Dance Classes with Norella
Time: Every Wednesday @ 8.15pm
Venue: Ballydesmond Community Centre.
Admission: €10 pay as you go. Learn to dance the jive, waltz, quickstep, line dancing and more. Great exercise, good fun. No partner needed.
KNOCKNAGREE LADIES FOOTBALL CLUB
New players from Age 4 to Adult are welcome to our club. There is training available to all ages on Wednesday nights in Knocknagree GAA Pitch. We offer structured training and game time for all players. Please check out our Social Media pages for up to date information on our club which is updated weekly. or please contact our Club Chairperson Catherine on 083 3498778
For Parents
Donoughmore
Parent and Toddler Group
Donoughmore Community Hall Stuake, Co. Cork, P32 FP49 Monday 9.30 - 11.30
Millstreet
Parent and Toddler Group
GAA Hall, Millstreet, Co. Cork P51V577 Monday 9.30am-12pm
Newtownshandrum
Parent and Toddler Group
Community Hall, Newtownshandrum, Charleville. Friday 10am-11am
Newmarket Breastfeeding Support Group
Time: 11.00am to 12.00pm. Venue: Castlecourt, Newmarket, Co. Cork.
Facilitated by PHN. Just drop in or phone 02961500. Breastfeeding mums and expectant mums are welcome.
Freemount Social Dancing
Time: Sundays 3 to 5:30pm
Venue: Freemount Community Centre P56 P893
Admission: €10
Strictly Adults only. Refreshments will be served. For more information: 083 458 9222
Set Dancing in Aubane
Venue: Aubane Community Centre P51 EP49
Time: Every Monday at 9pm
MUINTIR NA TÍRE
Property Branding Event
LICENCE 4D NUMBER BRAND SPEEDY IDENTIFICIATION OF OWNER BY GARDAI DETERS THEFT & ONWARD SALE BY THIEVES
FGFGFGFGFGFGFGFG
Duhallow News
SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
By
MONICA GILMORE
Sustainable Development Goal 8, one of the 17 global goals adopted by the United Nations, aims to promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all. The goal highlights the importance of creating opportunities where people can access meaningful employment, develop skills, and contribute to thriving local economies. In rural areas especially, economic growth is closely linked to community resilience, enterprise development, and access to local services that allow people to live and work within their own communities.
Across the Duhallow region, IRD Duhallow plays an important role in bringing this goal to life through a wide range of enterprise, employment, and community-based initiatives. Through programmes such as LEADER and SICAP, the organisation has supported local businesses with mentoring, grant assistance, feasibility studies, and business start-up supports, helping many enterprises to establish themselves and create employment locally. This long-term support has contributed to sustainable job creation and strengthened the local rural economy over many years.
An important part of this work is the development of social
enterprises, where employment creation is combined while meeting community needs. IRD Duhallow has developed and supported initiatives including Duhallow Community Laundry, Duhallow Revamp, Duhallow Community Food Services, Newmarket Afterschools, and the Warmer Homes Scheme. These services provide practical local supports while also creating valuable employment opportunities, particularly for people who may face barriers to entering the labour market. In doing so, they help reduce social exclusion while responding directly to everyday community needs.
IRD Duhallow also supports individuals through employment programmes such as Tús, Community Employment, and inclusive pathways to work, offering practical experience and helping participants build confidence and skills for future employment.
Alongside this the Duhallow Skillnet programme helps to support upskilling in the region with co-funded training courses designed to create a sustainable workforce.
The organisation also celebrates and encourages enterprise through the annual Duhallow Business Awards, which recognises innovation, entrepreneurship, and the achievements of local businesses. By highlighting success stories and encouraging enterprise development, the awards help promote a strong culture of local economic ambition.
Through enterprise support, social enterprise development, skills training, and recognition of local achievement, IRD Duhallow demonstrates how rural development can make a meaningful contribution to SDG 8, building a stronger and more inclusive local economy for the future.
Overall, 2025 Business of the Year recipient at the IRD Duhallow Business Awards, Rory Buckley from The Castle Hotel Macroom with IRD Duhallow CEO Maura Walsh.
The 2025 start your own business class celebrating the end of their programme which was run by tutor Ruth Cosgrave at IRD Duhallow through the SICAP programme.
Jenny Rose Clarke and Toby Clarke from Toons Bridge Dairy in Macroom were awarded funding in the 20212027 LEADER programme to allow them to expand their production to meet the demand of their customers.
Yeehaw!!! Dromtarriffe GAA’s upcoming country music fundraising event ‘Dromtarriffe Goes Country’ was officially launched on April 18th in The Sandpit House. Pictured above were Best Dressed Cowboy and Cowgirl on the night; John Cremin and Katelynn Murphy
Duhallow News
The Unlikely Organiser
By ALICE O’BRIEN Alice O’Brien Counselling, Newmarket
If you have read my writings previously, you will know I am a big advocate for connection and community. The benefit of doing activities as a group and getting to know the community is invaluable for social and mental health. However, what if the group you want to attend is not available in your locality? Would you start it? Get the wheels in motions? Often we feel that the organiser are outgoing, efficient people, with a lot of contacts and marvellous ideas. This can often be true- but not always.
The unlikely organiser is not the extroverted, meticulous person
we think of. The unlikely organiser could be you. Someone with a real interest in an activity or group. Maybe you have an idea for something and you know it will benefit others. It could be a book club, a running club or maybe a poetry event. It can be daunting to consider including others in your interest. You might think that others would not be interested, yet when you begin, you might be surprised by how many people were waiting for you to start.
So, how would you start? Once you know what event or group you would like to create then start from there. Choose a venue suitable for the group, maybe your local library or park. Maybe you could find a pitch or a gym. When the venue is sorted then start on the
people. Set up a WhatsApp group, or advertise on Facebook. Spread the word locally. Then, you could ask for help, other group members might like to help with the organising too. Be consistent; keep showing up, these things can take a few weeks before an established pattern emerges.
So, food for thought but what if others are just waiting for your idea. Become the unlikely organiser. Everyone benefits especially you.
Local Athlete Paul Twomey Wins Lakes Traverse 100km
By MAIREAD O’KEEFFE New Leaf Health Store
There’s always great interest in local achievements, and recently we were delighted to hear about Paul Twomey’s win at the Lakes Traverse 100km—an incredible result in one of the UK’s toughest ultra-distance races.
Starting in St Bees on the west coast of England and finishing in Shap, the route crosses the full width of the Lake District, covering close to 100km with over 3,000 metres of climbing. The course takes in some of the region’s most rugged and scenic terrain, including Ennerdale, Borrowdale and Patterdale, before a final push along Haweswater. It’s a race that demands not just fitness, but patience, pacing and careful planning.
Paul delivered a superb performance, finishing in 11 hours 42 minutes to take first place overall. What stood out when we spoke to him afterwards was how simple and consistent his approach was— especially when it came to nutrition.
“I didn’t want any big highs or crashes. The goal was just to keep the energy coming in steadily from early on,” he said.
Throughout the race, Paul averaged close to 95g of carbohydrates per hour, using a mix of gels and bars from Precision Fuel & Hydration, along with their 500mg electrolytes to stay hydrated. It’s a strategy he’s practiced in training and one that clearly paid off on the day.
For most of us, a 100km race is hard to imagine, but there’s something to take from it at any level. Keeping things simple, fuelling well, and being consistent are habits
that benefit everyone, whether you’re training for an event or just trying to stay active.
A fantastic achievement—huge congratulations to Paul.
Paul Twomey and Mairead O’Keeffe Outside New Leaf Health Store
Boherbue Comprehensive Dazzles with Sold-Out TY Musical “Step Up”
Boherbue Comprehensive School
celebrated a major success with its Transition Year musical “Step Up”, which played to two soldout audiences in Pearse Hall, Boherbue, on March 27th and 28th. The production drew strong community support, with tickets selling out in advance for both nights, underlining the popularity of the school’s annual musical and the anticipation surrounding this year’s show.
At the heart of “Step Up” was the dedication and talent of the Transition Year students, who took full ownership of the production. The cast delivered a high-energy performance, combining strong acting with confident vocals and wonderful choreography. Many students took on leading roles for the first time, rising to the challenge and demonstrating impressive stage presence and confidence throughout both nights. Each performance was opened by a group of first year dancers, who set the tone for the evening with an energetic routine.
Beyond the spotlight, students were deeply involved in every aspect of the show’s production. A committed backstage team handled stage management, set construction and props ensuring the performances ran smoothly.
Others worked on costume design and makeup, helping to bring characters to life.
The students were guided by Musical Director and Choreographer Emma Norton, a Newmarket native, who brought a wealth of expertise to the role. A graduate of The Scottish Institute of Theatre, Dance, Film and Television in Edinburgh with a BA (Hons) in Musical Theatre, Ms Norton has performed extensively across Ireland, including with Centre Stage School in Mallow, and spent seven months performing at Disneyland Paris.
The students were also supported by Assistant Producer Mike Guerin a creative writing and drama teacher based in Newmarket, Mr Guerin is an award-winning short story writer whose work has been published both nationally and internationally, with plays staged across Ireland and at the INK Short Play Festival in England.
Sound for the production was expertly managed by Jimmy Healy.
This contributed to the smooth running of both performances. The production was further strengthened by generous community support, including a €2,500 donation from Newmarket Credit Union. Representatives Elaine Howard and Dorothy Barrett were recently welcomed to the school, where they met with Deputy Principal DJ McSweeney and students involved in the production. Their contribution played a vital role in enhancing the overall quality of the show and supporting students throughout the process.
With full houses on both nights this reflects the continued support for the school’s annual musical and the significant effort and dedication of everyone involved.
Duhallow News
Humanitarian Aid from Ireland to Ukraine “Run N°8”
CONT’D FROM FRONT
The lads on this “run” the 8th convoy formed a proper inter-county team; Cork, Limerick, Tipperary, Kilkenny, Wexford, Dublin & Louth. Our ages ranged from mid 50s to early 80s! The vehicles included a 2006 LDV Maxus van, a 2003 Iveco box van, an 2018 Peugeot Expert / Tepee van (ex taxi), a 2005 Mercedes minibus adapted for wheelchair users, a 2018 Mercedes ambulance & a 2017 Mercedes ambulance. Vehicles on our last “run” the 7th; included a 2003 Scania rigid truck, a 2002 Mercedes chassis based fire-engine, a 2004 civil defence Landrover, a 2004 flatbed Transit van, a 2006 transit minibus, a 2008 LDV Maxus minibus & a 2003 Suzuki Vitara.
The ambulances or fire-engines we take out are for the UEMS Ukrainian Emergency Medical Service & SESU State Emergency Service of Ukraine which is like a combination of Ireland’s Civil Defence & Fire Brigades. One
of the photographs I took was of a fireman’s grave in the military section of a Kyiv graveyard. He died in a “double strike” while responding with colleagues to a bombing.
A 9th “run” is tentatively pencilled in for the end of the summer. Any support, encouragement, advice or assistance in kind would be more than welcome e.g. if a couple of mechanics were to check a vehicle for us some Saturday morning or a GAA Club were to give us hurleys & sliotars for Kyiv Gaels GAA, they’d be taken out to Ukraine along with the humanitarian aid.
For further information on previous or planned future trips plus film clips from Ukrainian television stations, please contact Jim Harding of Harding’s Stoneyard, Gowran, Co Kilkenny R95WR15. Jim set up The Kilkenny to Ukraine Group. Facebook @kilkennyukraine. com and email: ireland2ukraine@ gmail.com. Telephone & WhatsApp 0862500404.
Someone from Ardee Rugby Football Club passed on sets
of Ardee RFC, Old Belvedere & Leinster kit for morale and rehabilitation purposes to Odessa Rugby Clubs. We’ve learned that old or new (GAA, soccer or rugby) sports shorts are genuinely useful, because casualties at triage stations and stabilisation points behind the frontlines have their uniforms sheared off for treatment, and shorts help to maintain personal dignity.
Donations of privately owned “old bangers or jalopies” of vans, jeeps & pick-ups are normally preferred along with decommissioned public service vehicles because they’ll have a fairly short shelf-life since they’re used in frontline areas to evacuate casualties with onward transport to hospitals by ambulance. Decommissioned Irish ambulances are appreciated because treatment can start immediately given the room available within. In rallying terms, for service crews & mechanics, “Pairc Feirme” is just outside Gowran near the Paulstown exit off the M9 motorway from Dublin to Waterford.
Millstreet Moments
Displaying the wonderfully colourful Mini
at the recent
Photos by Seán Radley
Uplifting dancing and community singing at the recent very impressive Lifelong Learning Festival held at the FET Centre in Main Street, Millstreet.
Staff Members at Millstreet Presentation N.S. with "Grayson" at the recent very successful "My Canine Companion" fundraiser.
Library Boxes
Lifelong Learning Festival held at the FET Centre in Main Street, Millstreet.
All three teachers originally from the Cullen areaFrank, Siobhán and Maria - attending the recent very successful "My Canine Companion" fundraiser held at Millstreet Presentation N.S..
Clara Mountain as viewed from Millstreet Town Park on a recent Spring day.
Millstreet bluebells in superb bloom for the months of April and May.
Corpus Christi Procession of past decades at The Square, Millstreet. Accessed from the Pictorial Archives of Millstreet Museum.
Interviewing the truly wonderful Eileen Cronin in her very welcoming home at Scrahan in Knocknagree. The fascinating interview will be repeated on www. corkmusicstation.com on Tuesday, 28th April at 10pm and on Friday, 1st May at 10pm. This photo is by Noreen O'Sullivan.
Recent glorious sunset as viewed from Mount Leader, Millstreet.
One of the many hugely interesting historical Posters on display in Banteer's exquisite Sports Complex Museum.
Magnificent colour of Spring at Mount Leader, Millstreet.
IRD Duhallow Supports “See Her Elected” Programme
IRD Duhallow has long championed women’s participation in politics and decision-making roles in order to contribute to a more balanced and representative political landscape. Equality between genders is one of the fundamental principles of EU law. Through its Communicating Europe Initiative, IRD Duhallow has aimed to foster citizens’ awareness of EU policy making, aiming to ensure that women have a voice in shaping what is next for Ireland and the EU. Modern Irish gender legislation emerged in the 1970s, with the EEC (European Economic Community) playing a crucial role in pushing for change. EEC membership is seen to have accelerated reforms in policy including the removal of the marriage bar where women had to surrender their public service jobs upon marriage and equal pay legislation.
Today women make up 43% of MEPs in Ireland, however only 25% of candidates elected to the 34th Dáil in the last election were women. Concern at the underrepresentation of women in the county councils of the North West /Midlands region was the catalyst for the formation of the See Her Elected (SHE) programme in 2019.
SHE is a programme under Longford Women’s Link (a social enterprise in County Longford who work to ensure that women in
Longford can fulfil their potential in a safe and equal society).
The success of SHE in the lead up to their first local election cycle in 2024 means the SHE Programme now has a presence in every county in Ireland.
The programme is fully funded by the Irish Government’s Department of Housing, Local
Government and Heritage.
The SHE network have a number of webinars upcoming in 2026 including webinars on active citizenship and local politics.
For FREE registration for these political education webinars please visit www.seeherelected.ie where you will find a guide to their upcoming events.
MEP Cynthia Ní Mhurchú meets with IRD Duhallow CEO Maura Walsh Assistant Manager Eileen Linehan, Team Leaders Helen O’Sullivan and Tríona Dennehy and Development Officers Nollaig Murphy and Leonora Kelly as part of Communicating Europe Initiative activities in Duhallow.
MEP Kathleen Funchion speaks at the launch of the Cork North West Zero Tolerance of violence against Women and Girls Campaign at the James O’Keeffe Institute Newmarket.
Crossword sponsored by Duhallow Community Food Services
Across
1. Come into existence (9)
7. Desert plants (5)
9. Entice (5)
10. Paddles (4)
11. Pugilist (5)
14. Brass instrument (5)
15. Wood file (4)
18. Magical incantation (5)
19. Last letter of the Greek alphabet (5)
20. The history of a word (9)
Down
2. Profit (4)
3. Country (6)
4. Moderate (9)
5. Performer (5)
6. Pig pen (3)
8. Rotund (9)
12. Downhill ski race (6)
13. Lance (5)
16. Make a request (3)
17. Hard work (4)
Solution: Issue 162, April 17th, 2026
Duhallow News Duhallow News Duhallow News
Complete the crossword and post with your name and 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 email to discoverduhallow@irdduhallow.com
Terms & Conditions:
Deadline for submissions is noon on Friday, MONTH ##th 2025.
First correct entry drawn will win a €20 voucher, valid for three months from date of issue, to be redeemed for food at the Duhallow Community Food Services. No cash alternative. Winner will be named in subsequent issue of Discover Duhallow. One entry per person. No correspondence will be entered into. Voucher to be collected from Duhallow Community Food Services, Newmarket.
WINNER
Congratulations to Nora Carver, Kanturk who wins a €20 voucher for Duhallow Community Food Services!
Feast of Our Lady of Fatima - May 13th
By TOM DENNEHY
One of the great feast days during the month of May is the feast day of Our Lady of Fatima. One hundred and nine years have passed since Our Lady appeared to three shepherd children in a small village called Fatima in Portugal.
In May 1917, the world was at war and the Portuguese government had declared that God did not exist. Churches were closed and priests and religious were expelled from the country. At the first apparition, the Blessed Virgin Mary told three little children - Jacinta, Francisco and Lucia -that she had come from Heaven and asked them to pray the rosary for peace and to offer sacrifices for sinners to atone for their sins which had offended God so much.
She appeared to them five more times, on the thirteenth day of each month. She identified herself as “Our Lady of the Rosary.” She told them the Rosary had the power to stop wars and asked that the Pope and World bishops would consecrate Russia to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.
During her final apparition, on October 13th, 70,000 people attended. Our Lady had promised the little children a sign to show those present that she was really appearing to them. The great Miracle of the Sun was witnessed by all present and could be seen for more than twenty miles away. We live in a time when more and more people have forgotten or are denying the existence of Heaven and Hell. Our Lady reminds us of the reality of both. On July 13th during the third apparition, Our Lady showed the three children a terrifying vision of Hell. This vision served to encourage prayers and
sacrifices, particularly the rosary, for the salvation of souls.
The Power of the Rosary:
Our Lady has told us that if we offer up our sufferings and our rosaries, we can win graces which can help those who are far from God to have a profound conversion. This can be seen when people go to confession for the first time in many years where they encounter the merciful love of their Heavenly Father. He always welcomes back his Prodigal children with open arms and great love. They experience divine grace, mercy and forgiveness and can then forgive themselves and live a new life knowing the unconditional love of God.
The appearance of the Guardian Angel of Portugal to the children in 1916 is important as the Angel showed them how to receive the Eucharist. The Angel was holding a chalice in his left hand, with the Host suspended above it, from which some drops of blood fell into the chalice.
The Angel then taught the children how to adore and reverently receive the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in Holy Communion.
Many Catholics today do not recognise that Jesus is truly present in the Eucharist so the message of Fatima helps us to believe in the great miracle performed at every Mass when the bread and wine are transformed into the Body and Blood of Christ. Message of Fatima-
The message of Fatima is as relevant today as it was in 1917. The Blessed Virgin -Our Blessed Mother- came as a messenger of peace, her presence transforming the lives of these children. They, in their turn, became beacons of light and love from the turbulent secular society in which they lived.
The Blessed Virgin spoke not of an angry God but a loving and compassionate God who loves us. God wants to save all His children so Our Lady came to lead all of us to have a personal relationship with her son, Jesus. Fatima calls us to love and to trust our faith, to repent of our sins, to adore Jesus in the Blessed Eucharist, to pray daily for conversions. The message also reminds us of the need to pray daily for the holy souls who rely on our prayers and sacrifices.
Both Jacinta and Francesco were canonised as saints in 2017 on the centenary of Our Lady of Fatima. We ask them to pray and intercede for all of us. The other visionary, Lucia, who died in 2025 aged 97, had other apparitions during her life including December 1925 when she received the five first Saturdays devotion.
May we discover the beauty and truth of our faith and come to know the God who loves us unconditionally and forgives us daily.
Our Lady of Fatima, Queen of Peace, pray for us and enfold us in your mantle of mercy.
