126: 8th November, 2024
Gold Goes To Ath Trasna Medical Centre At The Tenth Annual IRD Duhallow Business Awards
The IRD Duhallow Business Awards took place on Friday 1st November at the James O’Keeffe Institute, Newmarket, Co. Cork. There were seven category winners and one overall winner, with Newmarket based Ath Trasna Medical Centre being awarded Best Overall Business.
The annual affair which celebrated its 10th anniversary this year has become an unmissable
Best
staple in Duhallow, attracting a crowd of more than two hundred on the night. The attendees, a mix of esteemed business figures and community representatives made it clear that this was the event to be seen at. Comedian and social media sensation Reggie from Blackrock Road hosted the awards, ensuring that the night proceeded with good humour and comedy throughout
Overall Business - Ath Trasna Medical
Back: IRD Duhallow Vice Chairperson and Chairperson Anne Maria Bourke and Michael Twohig, MC for the night Reggie Blackrock, IRD Duhallow CEO Maura Walsh, Chairperson of Enterprise Working Group Padraic O’Connell, and IRD Duhallow board member Cllr Fionnán Fitzgerald
Front: IRD Duhallow Team Leader Helen O’Sullivan and Development Officer Monica Gilmore, Dr. Bertie Daly and Zelie Gaffney of Ath Trasna Medical, IRD Duhallow Team Leader Triona Murphy, and IRD Duhallow Assistant CEO Eileen Linehan.
Duhallow News
Editors Note
We are back again, everyone! We took an extra week for this issue but you had plenty to absorb in the jam packed Issue 125. Which brings us to Issue 126. It showcases the wonderful IRD Duhallow Business Awards held on November 1st. Check out all the winners inside!
Elsewhere, victory loomed large in Duhallow, from Freemount Macra being crowned the National Macra Club of 2024 for a second year to both Ballydesmond Handball Club and Boherbue Handball Club receiving medals.
And we saw you dressed up for Halloween and weddings that might not be the most legally binding. Ye are daft but it was all for great causes. Don’t ever change!
Want to send us something? The next issue of Discover Duhallow releases on March 8th!
Email: discoverduhallow@irdduhallow.com Phone: 029-60633
Facebook: Discover Duhallow Magazine Instagram: Discoverduhallowmag
Duhallow Children Inspire With Excellent Presentations At The 2024 Public Speaking Final Event
By NOLLAIG MURPHY Development Officer at IRD Duhallow
The James O’Keeffe Institute, Newmarket was the venue for a wonderful occasion on the 19th of October, when national school students representing schools throughout Duhallow were present to deliver speeches especially prepared for the annual IRD Duhallow public speaking event. This day was a culmination of a series of special workshops which the children had attended, in order to learn the skills of public speaking and communicative confidence. IRD Duhallow’s Youth and Education Working Group has long recognised that effective oral communication is a driver of personal and learning development, therefore these public speaking workshops remain a very important fixture in the annual calendar of events organised for young people. Under the expert tutelage of Dr. Siobhán Fitzgerald creator of the
Public Speaking Students representing Newmarket GNS, Newmarket BNS, Meelin NS, Ballydesmond NS, Boherbue NS and Scoil Naomh Padraig Kanturk along with project tutor Dr. Siobhán Fitzgerald, Vice Chairperson of IRD Duhallow Anne Maria Bourke and Nollaig Murphy Development Officer.
Lets Stand Progamme, a variety of very interesting speeches were eloquently delivered by local students.
Students from fourth, fifth and sixth classes were supported by their parents, guardians, siblings, grandparents and teachers on the day. Adult evaluators representing IRD Duhallow were also present to give positive feedback and advice to the young speakers. Vice Chairperson of IRD Duhallow Anne Maria Bourke and Development Officer Rowan Lanning, spoke to the group in relation to the contents of their speeches and
Speaking Students from
the significance of their public speaking achievements. This project which was supported under the SICAP programme, has been specifically designed to optimise learning outcomes for participating children. Anne Maria Bourke outlined to the audience how this long running project has at its core a vision of encouraging young people and to help instill in them an ability to confidently express their stories.
The young students spoke on matters close to their heart with speeches relating to sports, local heroes, history, folklore and special places of interest in Duhallow all being capably delivered by the children. Through their presentations the children also showed some of the skills they had mastered through participating in the programme, including intonation, speech structure, hand gestures, eye contact and facial expression. Well done to all the children who participated on their hard work and excellent presentations. Please keep an eye on upcoming editions of Discover Duhallow magazine where the students’ speeches will be printed.
Students from Meelin N.S. with their awards, at the closing event of the IRD Duhallow public speaking series of workshops.
Public
Boherbue National School with School Principal Ms. Marie Casey and their teacher Ms. Meabh Buckley.
Duhallow Cleans Up At Tidy Towns
Through incredible volunteers, community members, and effort that we can only begin to picture, Macroom brought home Gold in Category D, Millstreet won bronze in Category C and Castlemagner won an endeavour award from the Supervalu Tidy Towns Competition.
Both towns received high praise from the judges, and the dedication and commitment was noted. In their announcements, both areas thanked their incredible teams, and there is no doubt they look forward to a bright future.
However, the work is not over; new ideas are already being welcomed by Millstreet in particular, with goals to work towards Biodiversity and Millstreets own circular economy.
Katie and Pat Randles from Millstreet Tidy Towns have put huge work forward, and have bright ideas for the future!
Locks Of Love From Joshua
For close to five years, Joshua O’Sullivan of Ballydaly has been growing out his hair, and on November 2nd, he donated 15 inches of it to the Little Princess Trust.
Joshua, who had always sported a Buzzcut, decided during the Covid lockdown to start growing his hair out for charity.
The 21-year-old is a qualified SNA and is in his 3rd Year in University of Limerick studying to become an Engineering and DCG teacher.
His motivation was the struggles faced by children who, due to illness or medical conditions, lose their hair and don’t fully understand why they look different from their peers.
The Little Princess Trust provides free real hair wigs to children and young people up to 24 years, who have lost their own hair through cancer treatments or other conditions. One of the charities to benefit from this service is the Locks of Love for LauraLynn, the Children’s Hospice Charity. The average cost of a wig for a young person is €800. This covers the cost of making, fitting and styling. As of the closing of their donations, over €2,700 was raised; enough to make 3 wigs while also surpassing the target of €2,000.
‘Ye
Maids of Duhallow’Dromtarriffe GAA Club Tour With Mock Hen Party
‘Grannies Just Wanna Have Fun’: Dromtarriffe GAA Club continues its run up to it’s Mock Wedding Fundraiser on November 30th in the Charleville Park Hotel. The bridal party enjoyed a hell of a Mock Hen Party recently. You can keep up to date with all the shenanigans on their Facebook page - ‘One Hell Of A Do’.
Kanturk Foróige Youth Club Elects New Committee for 2024/2025
Kanturk Foróige Youth Club recently had a busy evening of elections to choose their new committee. The club is thrilled to announce the election of Jake O’Grady (Chairperson), Esther Aggrey, (Secretary), Oliwia Piotrowicz (Treasurer) and Aoife Aherne(PRO). This committee is responsible for running meetings each week and taking a leading role in club activities, with the assistance of the club leaders. Best of luck to Jake, Esther, Oliwia, and Aoife for the upcoming club year!
Chairperson: Jake O’Grady, Secretary: Esther Aggrey, Treasurer: Oliwia Piotrowicz, Public Relations Communication Officer: Aoife Aherne.
Photo by Tadhg Curtin
Duhallow News
Freemount Take Home Club Of The Year Again!
Freemount Macra were crowned the National Macra Club of 2024 at the Macra National Conference held in Lawlor’s Hotel in Naas. After yet another busy year of fundraising and competitions, the North Cork club was always confident they were in with a big chance of retaining the title of Club of the Year.
However, the win still came as a massive shock to each member of the club, with celebrations ongoing since.
Fundraising was a big priority for the club this year. Over the last 12 months, a pub quiz and a tractor run were organised. The club was represented at almost all the Avondhu regional competitions and activities, such as the farm skills, question time, National Talent, basketball, volleyball etc. Club members devoted a wealth of time and effort into organising both fundraisers.
As a result of those fundraisers, the club proudly raised 6,600 for three charities; Sli Eile, Anamcara and Milford Care Centre. This
meant that some of the donations would be used locally and the rest would be used to support families throughout Ireland. Members were pleased with the charities they had chosen as some of the charities are very close to both current and past members hearts.
The club’s recent success would not have been possible without the group of friendly, enthusiastic, and dedicated young men and women who are always happy to take part in competitions and activities.
Freemount Macra has a sizable catchment area with members coming from Kanturk, Meelin, Boherbue, Newtownshandrum, Liscarroll, Ballyhea, Lismire, Dromcollogher, Kilbrin and of course Freemount itself.
Thanks to regular recreational
activities such as clay pigeon shooting, karting, bowling, attending gigs and the Avondhu ball, the group have formed great friendships.
A special mention must be given to David Cronin and Doireann Twomey, who proudly represented the Avondhu Macra region at the Mr. Personality and Queen of the Castle festivals.
The club placed a lot of focus on club competitions this past year with some massive achievements along the way. Most recently being the farm skills competition where John, Gearoid and Michael finished second in the National finals which were held at the Tullamore show in August.
Earlier on in the year, playing the flute, Ciara Hartnett was the overall winner in the solo instrumental category in the National Talent Contest. While on the same day, the Freemount Macra set dancers came second in a separate category.
Committee members raising the cup
Freemount Macra members on the night, in high spirits, raising the cup.
What’s On In Duhallow
An Chultúrlann
Weekly
Monday Night Music
Time: 9pm
Cost: €5 on the door
Weekly open session happening Loads of local music from all your favourite stalwarts. Refreshments served.
Wednesday Writers Group
Time: 7:30pm
Writers group meet every 2nd Wednesday at the Cultúrlann. New members welcome. For details, contact 087 640 6705
Thursdays Ciorcal Gaeilge
Time: 7-8 pm
Anyone interested, please email theculturlann@gmail.com to be added to the WhatsApp group.
2nd Saturday of each month
Rambling House
Time: 8pm
Music, stories and songs. All are welcome to come along, just listen or take part if you wish. Refreshments are served and a great time to relax, meet and chat with friends, old and new.
1st Thursday of each month
Newmarket Dementia Café
Time: 11am – 1pm
A welcoming place for people with dementia, their family and friends.
Millstreet
Sliabh Luachra Cycling Club are accepting New members!
Saturdays 10am Bike Skills and fun, and cross country on a bike. Suitable for beginners of all ages. Regular or balance bikes. Stablizers not suitable, gloves and helmet required.
Milsltreet Country Park P51 T652
Newmarket
Athletic Club Training
Sunday mornings 10AM.
Duhallow Athletic Club training takes place in the Island Wood. All fitness levels and new members welcome
Newmarket Thursday Club
We meet every week in Castlecourt from 2.00 - 4.30pm. New members welcome.
Newmarket Breastfeeding Support Group
Time: 11.00am to 12.00pm.
Venue: First Floor, Newmarket Primary Care Centre, Newmarket.
Facilitated by Public Heath Nurses. Just drop in or phone 02961500. Breastfeeding mums and expectant mums are welcome.
Newmarket Knitting And Crochet Group
Venue: CYMS Hall
Time: Fridays 10.30 to 12
New members welcome, come along for craft, chat and cuppa. If you require anymore information please call Rita on 0862059745
Newmarket Bridge Club
Time: 7.30PM
Venue: CYMS Hall, Newmarket
Newmarket Bridge Club will start its 51st season. All members and newcomers are most welcome.
Coffee Morning & Cake Sale in Aid of Hope Foundation
Time: Sunday 17th November 11:30am
Venue: CYMS Hall, Newmarket
Cultúrlann
Christmas Market
Sunday 1st December
Tables can be booked for €30.
Kanturk
Kanturk Men’s Shed Christmas Fair
Sunday 24th November
Edel Quinn Hall, Kanturk 10am - 4.30pm
45 stalls to choose from with a massive variety of local crafts people. Music by Sheila Fitzgerald on the day, with raffle tickets available to support the Men’s Shed.
The special guest for the day is Santa Claus himself, with a Grotto ready for a nice photo and a treat for those who visit.
Rathmore
Teach Íosagáin Christmas Market
Sunday 8th December
Teach Íosagáin, Rathmore 11am-1pm
Tables available for €20. Contact 087 0324826 to book.
Santa Comes To Rathmore
Saturday 7th December
Teach Íosagáin, Rathmore
€15 per child
Call 064 77 61000 to book
Rockchapel Round-Up
Danny
Creedon Memorial Cup
Saturday 23rd November
St John’s Pitch, station Road
Carriganima
3pm Throw In
Evening Entertainment at The Pub, Carriganima
Music by Anthony Dineen
Raffle from 9.30pm
All proceeds in aid of Marymount Hospice
Donation boxes and raffle tickets will be available at the game and The Pub.
Everyone welcome!
Aubane
Aubane Set Dancing
November
11th: Gary Kelleher
18th: Hammer The Floor
25th: Tim Joe O’Riordan
December
2nd: Richard Lucey
9th: Neily O’Connor
Dromtarriffe
Dromtarriffe Social Badminton
Venue: Dromtarriffe Hall
Date: Every Wednesday 8-9pm
All welcome!
Dromtarriffe Craft Fair/Bazaar
Venue: Dromtarriffe Hall
Date: November 17th
Banteer
Glen Theatre shows
Please note bookings for Oct events will be taken on 029 56239.
All shows begin at 8pm
November
Sun 17th
Gerry Guthrie In Concert
Sat 23rd
Roger’s Final Farewell. Sun 24th
Roger’s Final Farewell.
December
Sun 1st
Roger’s Final Farewell.
Sat 7th
Fiona Kennedy.
Sun 8th
Roger’s Final Farewell.
Sat 14th
Robert Mizzell.
Wellness Day Fundraiser
Venue: Banteer Community Centre
Time: 10th Nov 9.30am-1pm
Fundraiser for Banteer Camogie
€10 - Cash Only
Race Night In Bweeng
Bweeng Community Sports and Recreational Facility brought in Autumn in style with their horse race night in Gortroe Inn on September 28th.
The night was buzzing and the craic was fierce! A few Lady’s Day style headpieces made an appearance, and the great spirits and sense of community shed light on the hard work of those who manage the facility. Well done to all involved!
Vintage Club Connects With Charity
Millstreet Vintage Club made a cheque presentation to Cancer Connect with a total of €2387 from our recent Cars & Coffee which was held on Sunday 1st September in Greens Glens, Millstreet in a very successful event.
Dúchas Volume 3 Launches
Michael Moynihan TD joined author Aogán Ó hIarlaithe for the launch of Volume 3 of Dúchas: The Duhallow Historical Journal.
The journal can be purchased at;
• Kanturk Bookshop
• Philip’s Bookshop, Mallow
• Wordsworth, Millstreet
• Gadaí Dubh Books, Ballymakeera
• O’Connor’s Newsagents, Killarney
• O’Mahony’s Bookshop, Tralee
• An Caifé Liteartha, Dingle
• Waterstones, Cork
• Or from the editor by contacting aoganohiarlaithe@ gmail.com.
Dúchas editor Aogán Ó hIarlaithe was joined by Michael Moynihan TD on the night of the books launch
Excellence for Murphy’s Gala
Congratulations to Murphy‘s Gala, Kanturk for their win of another Excellence award at the Gala 2024 awards!
Michelle Geaney, Deirdre Collins, Ann and Pat Crowley, Aidan Crowley, and Donal Collins
A great night was had by all!
A Road Bowling Legend Is Commemorated
Friends and family of a road bowling legend gathered in Nadd village recently for the unveiling of a plaque in his honour. That legend is Seamus Sexton. A name that looms large in the road bowling world, Seamus enjoyed great victories in his life as you can see some prominent victories are listed on his wonderful plaque. Cllr John Paul O’Shea was the keynote speaker at the event, speaking of Cork County Council’s assistance in the project as well as both the legend and the man. But it’s a credit to Seamus’ friends; John Duggan, Dan O’Leary, Eddie Galvin, Ned Hubbard and David Piggott for launching this endeavour in the first place. Seamus left us too soon but the final sentiment on his plaque says it all. Here’s to you Seamus, the “King” of The Roads. Words and Photos by Tadhg Curtin
1971 was a
for
Seamus in Whitechurch, 1987, in the All Ireland final against Gerry Boylan where he emerged victorious.
Unveiling a plaque in honour of the late road bowling legend; Seamus Sexton Snr - Christy Mullins, Dan O’Leary, John Duggan, Eddie Galvin, Con Kelleher, Ned Hubbard, Joe O’Connor, Cllr. John Paull O’Shea, and Pat Sexton.
big year
Seamus. He achieved victories in Munster and in the All Ireland.
The Sexton family: Séamus jnr, Caroline, Susan, James, Abi-May Marie, Edmund, Sandra, Marguerite, Cian & Hannah.
Castlemagner Sinsir Club Celebrates A Night To Remember at Fundraising Concert
Castlemagner Community Centre was alive with excitement last Thursday night, as the Sinsir Club hosted a successful fundraising sitdown concert featuring renowned West Cork musician Patrick O’Sullivan, his son Conor and drummer Keelan McGowan, The Sinsir Club would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to all who attended and supported the event including their local sponsors. This concert was a crucial fundraiser for the club’s latest project, the production of their much-anticipated CD, How Can I Keep From Singing?. The recording has been in the works since last Easter, with members practising under the expert guidance of tutor and conductor Maria Twomey Hinchion. However, this project has always been about
more than just the music. It has been a journey of connection, fostering a sense of togetherness and belonging through song. The camaraderie, laughter, and shared cups of tea—and not to mention the delicious home baking— created a warm, joyful atmosphere that sustained participants through the summer months. Each week, they looked forward to coming together, proving once again that singing nourishes not only the mind but also the spirit. Now, with the final touches completed, the official CD launch will take place on Tuesday, December 3rd, at 8pm in the Castlemagner Community Centre. Everyone is invited to celebrate this momentous occasion. “Admission is free, and CDs will be on sale for €20 each, with a complimentary
From the night; Eileen O’Leary and Margaret O’Connor
USB stick included.
Other upcoming events include: Sinsir Cookery Demonstration: Tuesday, December 10th, 8pm at the Castlemagner Community Centre.
Shopping Trip to the Crescent, Limerick: Saturday, November 23rd. Coach fare is €30. To reserve your seat, call 0868521808.
Christmas Party: Sunday, December 15th, at Springfort Hall, starting at 1pm. Santa will make a special appearance! To book your meal, please call the number above.
Castlemagner Sinsir Club looks forward to welcoming everyone to these upcoming events and thanks the community once again for their incredible support throughout this wonderful project.
Photos by Paddy McAulliffe
Eddie and Alice Clernon, Paddy and Noreen Buckley
Julie O’Connell, Breda Bourke, Mary Crowley Neil Moylan and Sean Byrne were on lights and sound.
Cont’d from Cover
A group of independent judges were assigned the challenging task of choosing the finalists and winners. The panel noted the exceptional quality of this year’s submissions. Some decisions were tough and resulted in close scores and joint winners in the bestestablished business category.
IRD Duhallow Chair Michael Twohig said “The IRD Duhallow business awards are important as they recognise that enterprise comes in many forms in a rural area like Duhallow. From those in the very early stages of starting up; to those who address the needs of the community; the strength and resilience of a family led business; to the important role we must play in supporting female entrepreneurs; not forgetting our artists and those in creative
and food sectors as well as the long-established businesses that have stood the test of time and weathered the storms. We celebrate them all”
Padraic O’Connell, Chair of the Enterprise Working Group in his speech commented on the high calibre of the finalists and winners and the impact that the awards have on the region “This year we had a huge response to the business awards, with over 200 nominations from a variety of amazing businesses. Without the sort of businesses represented here tonight we in IRD Duhallow
Duhallow News
from Blackrock Road
would not be able to achieve our goals of developing the Duhallow Region. Congratulations to each and every nominee, finalist and winner tonight”.
Raffle winners Kristina Dubrovska, PJ Ahern and Mary O’ Sullivan O’ Keeffe Prizes presented by Cait Irwin, Manager of Bank of Ireland, Mallow
Reggie
posed with Tadhg Curtin and Caleb O’Connor from the Discover Duhallow team
Best Emerging Business
Best Women Led Business
Best Established
Best Community
Mary Owens of AIB presents the Best Emerging Business award to Iwona Drawc of The Sewing House
A first! Joint winners for Best Established Ashgrove Renewables and Dr. Bertie Daly
Assistant CEO of IRD Duhallow, Eileen Linehan, presents the award for Best Women Led Business to Katie Lawlor of Auntie Katie’s
Charles McCarthy of McCarthy Insurance Community Enterprise to Linda O’Connor Services
Established Business
Community Enterprise
Best Food Business
Trevor Hughes of SE Systems presents the Best In Creative Industry Award to Kristina Dubrovska of Moon Balloon
Donal Ahern of Kanturk Printers presents the award for Best Food Business to Jenny Clarke of Toons Bridge Dairy
Established Business Awards; Tracey Breen of Daly of Ath Trasna Medical
Insurance presents the award for Best O’Connor of Duhallow Community Food
Duhallow News
L-R: Gordan and Breda O’Keeffe, Michael Doyle, Gearóid Murphy, Lizzy MacKenzie, Noreen Murphy and Jeremiah Dennehy.
IRD Duhallow Board Members
Cllr Fionnán Fitzgerald and Billy Dennehy
Gillian Kelly, Cait Irwin and Fiona O’ Farrell, Bank of Ireland, Mallow
Reggie from Blackrock Road who MC’d on the night with IRD Duhallow CEO Maura Walsh and Vice Chairperson Anne Maria Bourke
The staff of DCFS were working hard the night of the awards, but were delighted to receive the Best Community Enterprise award
Kanturk Goes To Barcelona!
Congratulations to Shane O’Sullivan and Sean Clernon for being selected to play with the Cork U14 team at the Euro Youth International Basketball Tournament 2025 in Barcelona!
Finn Goes International!
Congratulations to Finn O’Dwyer!
He started as Inside Centre for Ireland U18 Clubs against Italy.
Finn has been a proud member of Kanturk Rugby Club for a number of years, and they have shown him massive support in this new role.
All of the best to him going forward!
Give Ballydesmond A Hand!
Well done to Amy Brosnan and Brendan Fleming for their success in the O’Neill’s 2024 World Handball Championship!
Gotta Hand It To Boherbue!
Boherbue Handball Club saw success with their World 4-wall Players; Darragh Ducey, Carmel Kelleher with her two Medals, Cian O’Connor, Oran Aherne, Colman Aherne, Aidan Lenihan with their gold and silver medals. The players were well supported by their families. Congratulations everyone!
Lismire N.S. Update
Lismire National School News Update
With another very busy term in Lismire National school, the children enjoyed many activities. We were delighted to welcome our 6 new pupils and we wish them every success in our school. The children in the older classes had a very busy few weeks with blitzes and great days were had by all!
They also visited some of our local secondary schools and engaged in many excellent activities. The team from ‘Cycle Right’ did a 6 week block of Cycle training which was very beneficial and hopefully lifelong practices for cycling on the road were established.
A trip to Kilmacow Graveyard again this year was a great success. Finally, there is a long standing tradition of a great Halloween Dress-Up day, and again this year, the children had wonderful costumes, many of
which were homemade. Well done to all who won prizes on the day!
Smells Like Teen Spirit
Friend of Discover Duhallow Magazine; counsellor, Alice O’Brien, facilitated a ‘Get To Know Your Teenager’ seminar for parents in IRD Duhallow recently.
The main aim of the talk was threefold:
• Understanding the teenager development and behaviours.
• How to manage family life as your child ages.
• How to look after yourself.
Alice went into great detail as to why teenagers struggle, their social engagement system and brain development and of course how they try and fit in with their peers. Of course, it wasn’t just all talk about teenagers, there was advice directed towards the
parents themselves regarding their role in their teenager’s upbringing. She talked about the fine line between careless and dictatorial parenting styles.
It was a great talk, emphasising a crucial time of development in everyone’s lives. Many parents that evening can agree that the world sure is different now compared to when they were going through the same phase. However, while communication may not have been the main priority in their day between them and their parents, we are today more open to communication between the two generations. We thank Alice for putting on a wonderful information evening for IRD Duhallow. Follow Alice’s social media: Instagram - Alice O Brien
Counselling
in Discover Duhallow magazine every issue, found throughout Duhallow and online.
Guest Speaker: Alice O’Brien. You can follow Alice’s health column
Post Pandemic Winter
By ALICE O’BRIEN Alice O’Brien Counselling, Newmarket
It’s the time of year again where the C-word is floating around. We do our best to avoid it, but it can be hard. I’m not talking about Christmas- although it is a C-word we would like to delay hearing. I’m talking about the other C-word-Covid. The HSE are reminding us to get our Covid vaccine top-up. Our doctor is telling us to take care of ourselves, pharmacies have covid test kits on the counter again. Winter is coming and with it comes the seasonal sicknesses, including covid.
We now live in a post-pandemic world, a phrase we had never
heard five years ago. How has that effected our mental health? We’ve experienced a world changing event so our mind-sets have surely changed as a result.
The most obvious effect on mental health since covid times relates to social anxiety. During the months of covid, we isolated for our health, but that became a way of life and a way to keep ourselves healthy. With winter approaching, it is easy to fall back into that way of thinking- stay home to stay safe. But that can have a very negative effect on our mental health as we lose connections that are vital to our wellbeing. The stress and loneliness of isolation is far more harmful than the germs we might pick up by getting out.
The uncertainty during the
pandemic hugely increased our fear and worry. It is natural that we may still fear getting sick over the winter months. But, advances in research has lessened the uncertainty, the availability of vaccines has also played a huge part in treating the illness. Worrying about getting sick will not prevent us from getting sick, but worrying about it will prevent us from enjoying the health we have now. So be present in today- let tomorrow look after itself.
As we face the winter, lets all look after our health. Take our vitamins, top up our vaccines, wash our hands. But most importantly, get out and live our lives - that has the best health benefit of all.
Terranova Pro-Nattase Complex: A Plant-Based Boost for Better Circulation
By MAIREAD O’KEEFFE New Leaf Health Store
Terranova Pro-Nattase Complex is a supplement gaining popularity as a plantbased alternative to nattokinase, an enzyme traditionally found in natto, a Japanese food made from fermented soybeans. Nattokinase has been researched for its benefits on circulation and inflammation, but not everyone can or wants to consume soy. Terranova offers a soy-free option that provides similar benefits without the soy, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions or sensitivities.
which can promote healthy blood flow. However, because nattokinase comes from soy, some people find it hard to digest or avoid it due to allergies. Terranova Pro-Nattase Complex steps in with a blend called BioCore Nattozimes®, an enzyme mix that acts like nattokinase but doesn’t contain soy, making it suitable for a variety of dietary needs.
provides a balanced and plant-powered way to support circulation.
Nattokinase is known for its ability to help break down fibrin, a protein involved in blood clotting,
What also makes Pro-Nattase stand out is its use of Terranova’s special MAGNIFOOD Complex, a blend of plant-based nutrients and antioxidants. This complex includes phytonutrients and flavonoids, natural compounds found in plants that support heart health, circulation, and overall vitality. By combining these nutrients with BioCore Nattozimes®, Pro-Nattase
Additionally, Pro-Nattase includes two powerful antioxidants: resveratrol and quercetin. Resveratrol, found in grapes and red wine, is known for its cell-protective qualities, while quercetin, commonly found in apples and onions, supports the immune system. Together, these ingredients work to boost the effectiveness of Pro-Nattase, making it a well-rounded option for those looking to support their circulatory health naturally.
If you’re searching for a plantbased way to help your body maintain healthy blood flow, Terranova Pro-Nattase Complex may be just what you need.
IRD Duhallow To Host Sustainability Seminar
Join us for an empowering and informative day at the James O’Keefe Institute as we tackle two of today’s most pressing challenges: sustainability and the rising cost of living. This event brings together experts across various fields to provide valuable insights and actionable advice, equipping you with the tools to live more sustainably while managing financial pressures.
Whether you’re looking for tips on reducing food waste, learning how to budget effectively, or discovering simple ways to save on energy costs, this event has something for everyone. Our lineup features experts in financial planning and sustainable living, each ready to share practical strategies that help you save money while making eco-friendly choices that benefit both your budget and the environment.
Take the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, ask questions, and explore ways to make a positive difference in your daily life. From household budgeting to eco-friendly lifestyle adjustments, you’ll leave with practical solutions to the
challenges we face today. Don’t miss out on this chance to gain the knowledge and resources to thrive sustainably in an era of rising costs. Register today and take the first step towards a more sustainable, financially stable future!
Halloween in Duhallow
Over the Halloween weekend, patrons attending the Hiland Nightclub in Newmarket were subjected to a ghoulish performance by a weird array of characters. Beetlejuice was the theme of the night. Before and after their performances, the troupe interacted with the crowds, posing for pictures and even joining in on the dance floor. The cast of players were Niall and Janet O’Neill, Tadhg Curtin (not pictured), Aoife Sweeney, Martin O’Neill, Tom Power, Shane O’Connor, Noelle Foley, Denis and Eileen Houlihan, Mary Jacob, and Aileen Lehane. Special credit to Aileen Lehane for her exceptional make up and costume design. Follow Aileen and her work on Facebook: ‘Aileen Lehane Face Painting & SFX Make Up’
Healy’s Bar, Kilcorney, hosted a Fancy Dress recently, raising funds for Friends of Millstreet Hospital. Tadhg Curtin and Catherine Cronin won prizes for their costumes.
In the middle of proceedings, a surprise mock wedding was held. Introducing the “newly weds”: Mr David Collins and Mrs Racheal O’Callaghan. The wedding was officiated by “Father” Matty Withers. Forgetting all the silliness, thank you to everyone who donated to such a worthy cause!
All Photos by Tadhg Curtin
Duhallow
Bareroot Season Begins
By RACHEL BUDD Horticulturist at IRD Duhallow
Bareroot season will be starting mid November and signals the start of the winter season in the garden.
Bareroot plants are trees, hedging and some shrubs that are raised in a field then lifted when they are dormant, between mid November and mid April. They are usually significantly cheaper than plants raised and sold in pots.
Bareroot plants are environmentally friendly, producing a bareroot plant uses less resources, ie. less fertilisers, less compost, less water, less plastic and less transport costs than a pot
grown plant.
More varieties are available as stock can be bundled together to be held in nurseries, taking far less space than pot grown plants
By the same token they are economical to send by mail order they can be bundled and packed into each other - several hundred small trees can be delivered in one parcel!
Bareroot plants often get settled in and grow faster than pot grown plants.
However it is very important not to let the roots dry out. If your plants have arrived before you are ready for them, you must’ heel them in’ until you have time to plant them. This means that you
must dig a hole and place your plants in it up to the soil level on the stems. You can put hundreds of trees into one hole so it is not too arduous. Make sure you back fill the hole with soil. Trees can be left like this for several months but must still be planted within the dormant season or they will not establish well.
Here at IRD we have a wide selection of bareroot trees, hedging and fruit bushes available for community groups as part of our Communities Planting for Biodiversity Project. For more information, please contact Rachel or Rowan at duhallow@ irdduhallow.com or on 02960633
Upcoming Special Sales
Tuesday November 12th
Weanling Show & Sale sponsored by Munster Bovine
Tuesday November 26th FATSTOCK SHOW & SALE
Entry
Tuesday December 10th
Weanling Show & Sale sponsored by O'Donoghue & Co Accountants, Banteer
Tuesday December 17th
Final Sale of 2024 Prize for Best Cow, Heifer & Bullock
Fatstock Show & Sale Sponsors
Ducon Concrete Ltd
Philpott Tyre Centre
Kanturk Credit Union
F.B.D. Insurance
Joan Buckley
T&D O'Keeffe Bros Builders
Duhallow News
Duhallow Community Food Services celebrated the monumental birthday of a beloved member of its team recently. Denis Lane turned 70 years old. Denis worked with DCFS for many years and has continued to volunteer since his retirement. Here he is with the rest of the staff. DCFS would be lost without you, Denis. Happy Birthday and here’s to many more!!!
A Time To Remember Our Dead
By TOM DENNEHY
The month of November each year is dedicated to commemorating our dead. On November 1st, we celebrate All Saints Day. On this day which is a Holy Day of Obligation, we honour all the saints and we ask them to pray and intercede for us. On November 2nd, we celebrate All Souls Day as we remember all our faithful departed.
The month of November is a good time to reflect on our own mortality and the brevity of life. It is an absolute certainty that one day we will have to face our Creator and account for our lives. The Catechism of the Catholic Church tells us (1030-1036) that immediately after death, the soul separates from our earthly bodies and we stand before God for judgement. Heaven, a state of eternal happiness, is the ultimate destination we long for. Those who are free from all sin enter Heaven immediately. Purgatory is a place of purification for those who die in friendship with God but are not purified of their sins. Hell is for those who have deliberately chosen to reject God and as St. Faustina has told us many go there because they refuse to believe in its existence.
God’s great mercy allows us to assist those souls on their way to Him. It is our great privilege to be able to shorten their time of separation from God. Then when the souls reach Heaven, they will intercede for us before the throne of God.
How can we help the holy souls? We can
• Pray for them, especially at the Offertory of the Mass, as the priest pours the drop of water into the chalice we can make our intention for both our living and our dead.
• Pray the Holy Rosary and the Divine Mercy Chaplet for them every day.
• Offer Novena prayers and say the prayer of Saint Gertrude which promises to release 1000 souls from Purgatory each time it is prayed.
• Have Holy Mass offered for them as often as you can.
• Visit a graveyard and pray the chaplet for the holy souls whenever we can. Let us pray especially for those who have nobody to pray for them.
• During the month of November which is dedicated to the Holy Souls, we can merit plenary indulgences for our loved ones in Purgatory. That means we can offer prayers for our loved ones that will immediately release them from Purgatory and they will finally enter Heaven for eternity.
In order to gain a plenary indulgence for the Holy Souls –we must be in a state of grace and go to Confession in the week preceding or the week afterwards, receive Holy Communion, visit a graveyard and pray for the Pope’s intentions by praying The Our
Father, The Hail Mary, The Glory Be and The Apostles Creed.
At the end of time, Our Lord Jesus will come again to judge the living and the dead. All souls will be rejoined with their bodies. Our Catholic faith gives us great hope and absolute assurance of a new life in the presence of Jesus in Heaven and those in Purgatory will join with those in Heaven. We tend to treat our spiritual lives with mediocrity compared with work, sport and other interests in our lives. But Eternal life is the most important. We must realize how important this is. We need to reflect on how we live our lives and make any changes needed. We have been given the necessary means of getting there through the Sacraments, the Rosary, Adoration, reading Sacred Scripture and doing good works. During this month we are particularly conscious of those who are grieving, all those who have lost loved ones. We mark this time with the blessing of graves and the celebration of remembrance services for all who have died. It is uplifting to visit a graveyard at night during November and see all the lights on the graves. There is a great peace and stillness in the air knowing that all our loves ones are remembered. We can only imagine the tremendous joy when a Holy Soul is released from Purgatory and enters the glory of Heaven.
Prayer of St. GertrudeEternal Father, I offer you the Most Precious Blood of Your Divine Son, Jesus, in union with all the Masses said throughout the world today. For all the souls in Purgatory, for sinners everywhere, sinners in the universal Church, those in my own home and in my own family. Amen.
Duhallow News
Across
1 Dock (5)
4 Sore (7)
8 Rubbish (7)
9 Sacred song (5)
10 Boulders (5)
11 Sincere (7)
12 Real (6)
14 Blemished (6)
17 Ancient Japanese warrior (7)
19 Concur (5)
21 Ashen (5)
22 Before (7)
23 Least difficult (7)
24 Viper (5)
Down
1 Bet (5)
2 Fruit (7)
3 Emblems (5)
4 Fragments (6)
5 Endanger (7)
6 Fire (5)
7 Restricted (7)
12 Relieve of blame (7)
13 Abbreviate (7)
15 Concerned (7)
16 Straightforward (6)
18 Relocates (5)
19 Main artery (5)
20 Mistake (5)
Solution: Issue 125, October 18th, 2024
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, November 15th 2024.
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.
Congratulations to Ger White, Ballincollig, who wins a €20 voucher for Duhallow Community Food Services! To
Duhallow News
Job Title CE Rehabilitation Scheme Supervisor
39 hours per week based on annual contract pay scale as per CE Supervisor rates of pay
Roles and responsibilities of the employee
• To ensure the effective and efficient management of the human, financial and resources of the CE scheme with an overall objective to provide opportunities for people in recovery from substance misuse to re-engage into their communities and activate them for entry to the labour market;
• Support 7 CE participants to increase their self-esteem, enhance their CV, get ‘job ready’ or ‘further education ready’;
• Strategically liaise with community resources and agencies in supporting the participants to avail of progression / self-development opportunities;
• Engage with participants on a one-to-one basis and agree Individual Learning Plans (ILP) for submission to DEASP for approval;
• Liaise with addiction related services to ensure alignment of the ILP with the participant’s care plan for training and development purposes;
• Provide guidance in a supportive manner in relation to all the available supports including health & well-being, educational, labour market training and occupational specific skills, career advice etc;
• Explore training and learning options that aim to support employment-finding strategies, increase selfefficacy, improve commitment to work, enhance interview skills and develop transferable (e.g. time management, presentation, self-evaluation) and role-specific (e.g. computer literacy) skills;
• Provide mentoring to encourage uptake and access to services/supports in real-life community settings where they can have experiences that build their confidence;
• Encouragement of social connections including social/recreational/sporting/ activities and opportunities as well as taster opportunities within their own communities through the various clubs and organisations e.g. Macra na Feirme, GAA;
• Provision of monthly reports to IRD Duhallow’s Employment and Training Working group
• Work in a confidential and professional manner that ensures the welfare and safety of participants is of paramount importance;
• Respond to sensitive issues in a confidential manner subject to vulnerable adult guidelines;
• Develop and maintain excellent working relationships with relevant statutory, community and voluntary organisations;
• Work in an integrated manner with other team members and with other relevant service providers;
• Undertake ongoing evaluation of outcomes and impacts of both specific interventions as well as the programme overall in terms of progressing participants;
• Carry out risk assessments and manage risks as required;
• Ensure the accuracy and completion of all administrative forms, reports etc.
• Monitor and review outcomes against performance targets and reflect on practice;
• Undertake staff development activities that shall enhance individual and organisational performance;
• Maintain and developing relevant skills and work to the highest professional standards;
• Comply with relevant policies and procedures e.g. Health and Safety, Safeguarding Vulnerable Persons at Risk of Abuse – National Policy and Procedures, Data Protection, Equal Status Acts 2000-2008.
• Ensure consistency of quality of delivery and reporting issues as they arise;
• Carry out any other reasonable duties assigned by the organisation;
• Provide the CEO with regular reports as appropriate.
Key Requirements
• 3 years of supervisory and people management work experience relevant to the post;
• ICT and report writing skills;
• Major Award at 3rd Level (NFQ or higher) in Psychotherapy, Counselling or related field i.e addiction studies
Applications Please include Cover Letter and Current CV and send to: Maura Walsh, CEO, IRD Duhallow, James O’Keeffe Institute, Newmarket, Co Cork or email for the attention of Maura Walsh to duhallow@irdduhallow.com
Closing date: 5.00pm Friday the 15th of November 2024
