Discover Duhallow Issue 54 by IRD Duhallow

Issue 54: November 26 2021 contact us at: discoverduhallow@irdduhallow.com

FREE

COMBAT CHRISTMAS STRESS WITH NEW LEAF: P15

1920 - 1981

Remembering James O’Keeffe In the 40 years since James O’Keeffe’s passing, the landscape of farming has changed in ways he could only have dreamed. His fingerprints are everywhere, but across Duhallow, he was a household name, and as the time has gone on, we’ve watched his efforts transform into the path forward.

He’s no doubt the champion player in the history of farming, and his efforts have touched every life in the Duhallow region. In this issue, we look over his life, his aims for farming, and the look of farming then and now.

■See page 12&13

The late James O’Keeffe

We are offering Christmas Gift Vouchers this year! HARDWOOD FIREWOOD Kiln Dried Oak - 1.15m and 2.3m crates & Net bags Air Dried Ash - 2 ton Bulk bags & Trailer load Starter Firelogs - Box of 10 for €10 Kindling - €2.50

CONTACT DETAILS:

Richard: 087 258 8365 Michael: 087 913 0046 EMAIL: duhallowsawmills1@eircom.net

ADDRESS: Dromagh P51 Y671 OPENING HOURS: Monday to Friday: 8am - 5:30pm Saturday: 8am - 1pm

From all of us here, we wish you a very Merry Christmas

Issue 56 November 26, 2021

DiscoverDuhallow@irdduhallow.com

Community News

A Millstreet Collection Millstreet Primary School Parents Association is proud to announce the sale of a fabulous CD which is sure to make a lovely present for Millstreet and music fans for Christmas 2021.

The collection is the hard work of a local man, Paddy Murphy from Tullig, who undertook the project and oversaw the production. The featured songs all have a connection to Millstreet, either by their lyrics or through the artists involved. A delightful song by pupils from the Presentation National School also features. The result is a varied collection of traditional Irish music, ballads, and toe-tapping tunes to name but a few. In total over 27 songs are featured.

Paddy has kindly offered all sale proceeds to benefit the two local Millstreet primary schools - Scoil Mhuire Boys National School and Presentation National School. With support from the schools Parents Association a competition was run amongst the pupils of both schools to design the CD artwork. The winning entry by Margaux Gilbourne 6th Class features on the front cover and cleverly depicts local places and objects, such as Drishane Castle and Clara Mountain. With an in-person launch not possible due to ongoing Government restrictions, the CD is now available to pre-order and costs €10. It will also shortly be available for sale locally, with thanks owed to the local Millstreet

shops for supporting its sale. To pre-order, simply email millstreetparentsassoc@gmail.com or call/text 0879006734. Your support is greatly appreciated.

Christmas Lighting In Rathmore Liam Flynn of Millstreet has outlined a proposal to enhance Rathmore during the Christmas period. Unfortunately, the proposal would involve significant expenditure in year one. However, this cost would drop in following years. Year One Cost Breakdown Brackets €50 Trees €15 Lights €22 Labour €40 Initial total €120 For those who already have brackets, trees and lights can be supplied for €70. He has agreed to leave prices as last year. We understand it is not easy for people to find money for everything in these times, but we feel this is a project worth recommending. For more info, details, and interest, contact Liam on (087) 638 0053 or (029) 70 397, or Rathmore Community Council Michael O’Mahony 087 6676817

DiscoverDuhallow@irdduhallow.com

Issue 56 November 26, 2021

Community News

Noel Kennedy, secretary of East Kerry Board, presents Man of the Match Award to Shane Ryan, Rathmore following Quarter Final East Kerry Senior Championship Win

Photo by Timmy O’Leary

TUREENCAHILL

Tureencahill Community Centre Digital Hub is up and running! Take advantage of this great opportunity for superfast wifi/ broadband. High-speed internet access available to everybody! • Cosy Rooms • CCTV • Kitchen • Printing and Photocopying • Safe parking • Packages to suit everyone Covid restrictions are in place Contact 085 1741551 or 087 9924821 for details Every Friday Activity Retirement Group 11am to 12.30 New Members Very Welcome Contact 087 1271052 for info.

CULLEN

Cullen Pipe Band is now recruiting pipers and drummers for the upcoming season. Beginners aged ten and over interested in learning the bagpipes or drums are also welcome. For further info, contact 087 2347651

Issue 56 November 26, 2021

Up Up And Away!: Knocknagree Fairfield Tidy Towns handed over the check from their Community Air Ambulance Fundraiser. A massive well done to all involved in raising a whopping €5,279.50! From front L-R: Eileen O’Leary, Carmel O’Mahony, Breda Twomey, Donie Lucey of the Air Ambulance, Margaret Goulding, Danny Brosnan, John Peter Moynihan.

Miracle Prayer

Dear Jesus, In the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask for a very special one. Take it, dear Jesus, and place it within your own heart, where your Father sees it. Then, in His merciful eyes it will become your favour and not mine. Amen. MMA

We’re taking a short break!

With Christmas fast approaching, the Discover Duhallow team will be releasing a special Christmas issue! The Christmas magazine (releasing December 17th) will be a massive bumper edition full to the brim with Christmas ideas, recipes, photos, and news, as well as the all important entries of our art competition! Send in your Christmas photos, news, and Christmas interest pieces to discoverduhallow@irdduhallow.com, or post them to “Discover Duhallow, IRD Duhallow, James O’Keeffe Institute, Newmarket, Co. Cork” by December 10th, and enjoy counting the days to our special edition. Just 21 more days!

DiscoverDuhallow@irdduhallow.com

Community News

€6 million Approved for Scoil Mhuire, Kanturk

The Department of Education has approved in excess of €6 million for the refurbishment and expansion of Scoil Mhuire, Kanturk. The project will see the replacement of 7 existing prefab classrooms with 9 new modern classrooms. A textile room, graphics room, and music room as well as 5 SET / pastoral offices will be included in the extension. The project will also see the provision of 2 SEN base classrooms and a range of support facilities once completed. The Department of Education have also granted permission for temporary prefab accommodation to be provided for the duration of the build once the current prefabs have been demolished. The process to appoint a design team is well underway and the new facility is expected to open in 2024. Speaking to the Corkman, school principal Denis Keating expressed the delight of the school community at the investment by the Department of Education in future generations of students who will attend Scoil Mhuire. He paid tribute to his predecessor Miriam Downey who worked tirelessly on this project for much of the past decade. He also acknowledged the efforts of local public representatives in advocating for this investment in Scoil Mhuire.

First year students with John Paul O’Shea, Denis Keating Principal, Andrew McNamara Deputy Principal, Miriam Downey Former Principal and Michael Moynihan.

IN THE FRAME

JohnPaul O’Shea, Michael Moynihan, Andrew McNamara Deputy Principal, Denis Keating Principal and Miriam Downey Former Principal.

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 discoverduhallow@irdduhallow.com

Pictures taken along Donure Falls in Kilcorney, sent to us and taken by Juliette Crowley

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Issue 56 November 26, 2021

Duhallow News 1st anniversary: John Anthony O’Sullivan 1st January 1940 ~ 26th November 2020

Anne, and the Family of the Late John Anthony O’Sullivan, Ballydaly would like to express our sincere and heartfelt gratitude to all those who helped and supported us during his illness, funeral, and in the past 12 months. The final days were made so much more comfortable due to the professionalism and care of the following: The District Nurses Maureen, Marie, Teresa and Sharon; Homehelp Christina; The doctors at Tullig Medical Centre; Staff of Mallow Hospital; Staff of Millstreet Hospital; Reens Pharmacy; Nightcare Tim; Staff of Marymount Hospice; Palliative Nurses Phil, Bina, Kathy and Eileen; Fr Jack and Fr. Sean. His passing was made so much easier by the sensitivity of: Daffodil Nurse Phil, South Doc, and Davy Tarrant Undertaker. The Funeral Mass was exactly as John Anthony would have liked. This

was down to the attention to detail and passion that Sharon in Parish office, Fr. Pat, Fr. Sean, Sacristan Julie, and Singer Joan put into the ceremony. We were so grateful to Sean Radley that the ceremony was streamed to Millstreet Hospital for Anne. We were very humbled by the friends, neighbours, and extended family that lined the road from Ballydaly to Millstreet when he left his home at 8.30am on that Friday morning. And all those that stood outside the church and at the graveyard where the final prayers were broadcast over his own public address speakers. We would like to sincerely thank everyone who wrote messages of sympathy on RIP.ie, sent Mass Cards, and took the time ring or text. Your thoughtfulness was appreciated. Covid may have kept everyone physically apart, but we have never felt so surrounded by people with kind hearts and generous natures. There were so many gestures of kindness and goodwill from so many people that we, as a family, appreciated and will never forget. We won’t name these individuals as there were so many, we’re afraid we’d forget someone. A Mass for all those mentioned (and those not) has been offered for your intentions in St Patricks Church, Millstreet.

In Loving memory of my Husband Your face within my mind I see, Your voice I clearly hear. Though in Gods Arms you rest Dear John, In my heart, You are always near With Love Always, Anne In memory our Father and Granda The empty chair, the TV stilled. The coat unworn, the pipe unfilled. The speakers hushed, the light unlit. The door now locked, no call to sit. An earthy mound, a wooden cross. A silent prayer, a loved one lost. A wreath of flowers, a vase just filled. A peaceful rest, a life well lived... Ar Dheis Dé Go Raibh D’anam John A, Mary & Joshua

SYMPATHIES Sympathies to Michael Finnegan, Evelyn (Fleming) Mariann (Cronin) & families on the death of their mother Joan Finnegan Scrahangullane, her sisters Maunie, Evelyn and all the Cronin and Finnegan families. Joan was laid to rest in Rathmore on the Saturday 13 th November. To Ian Dineen, Upper Shinnagh and daughter Karen on the death of Phil Dineen wife and mother, her mother Eithne, sisters Mary Cotter, Anna O’Leary, Bernie Murphy and Patrick Cashman, brothers Paudie, Aeneas and Ted and extended Dineen and Murphy families. Phil was laid to rest in Rathmore on Friday 12th November.

Issue 56 November 26, 2021

Sympathies to Joan and Danny O’Keeffe Carrigaline and family on the death of her brother Denis Lehane who was laid to rest in Banteer on Friday 5th November. To Dermot O’Keeffe Old Road and extended O’Keeffe family on the death of his sister Sr Joan O’Keeffe Convent of Mercy Doncaster and l/o Islanderagh. To Lena Kelleher, Jeremiah & family on the death of her mother Lattie Murphy who was laid to rest in Millstreet on Saturday 13th November. May Denis, Sr Joan, Phil, Joan, and Lattie rest in peace.

DiscoverDuhallow@irdduhallow.com

Rathmore GAA club wishes to express sincere sympathy to the relatives and friends of Fr. Michael O’Connor (2nd Sept. 1926 - 30th Oct. 2021) of Moulagow. He was ordained in 1951 at All Hallows College and played with Kerry in the 1950 Munster senior SF replay against Clare in Limerick. He was involved in Kerry’s successful junior football All Ireland campaign in 1949, but missed the final that year because he had returned to college. He worked in various parishes in the Diocese of Liverpool and continued to play football in Lancashire for a no. of years and also represented Lancashire in All Ireland Junior football. May Fr. Michael rest in peace.

LEADER & SICAP

LEADER in the community Spotlight on Freemount Hall Car Park

By STEPHANIE MOYNIHAN Freemount Community Hall was built in 1974, and through the years it has remained a hub of activity with an array of events. It serves as a focal point for the community, and supports sports and leisure activities for the benefit of the people of Freemount and far beyond. In 2018, through the LEADER programme’s social inclusion remit, a project was approved to undertake drainage and resurfacing works on the community centre yard to take account of the volume and types of vehicles currently using the car park area. The project improved the

availability of the car park for those who need to access the various facilities located within the vicinity of the community centre including playground, national school, playschool, breakfast club/ afterschool service, the GAA complex, and the Heritage Centre. The project revamped the entire appearance of the hall, and

#SICAPStories -

improved its exterior look for those passing through the village. This LEADER-funded facility makes parking easier for visitors and people using the facility. It is a much needed part of the infrastructure of the village and a great asset to the hall. Further work has been undertaken on the hall under LEADER 2014-2020, whereby a youth space was created within the environs of the hall which has greatly benefited the rural youth of the area. The recent developments made in the local hall through the LEADER programme have been most significant, for further information please check out Freemount Community Development Association’s Facebook page.

Fighting Cyberbullying

By STEPHANIE MOYNIHAN The internet is a tool that we as a society can’t function without. It allows for enhanced access to education, entertainment, and social contact. However, due to the power of the internet, social media apps, and the anonymity that technology allows, it is essential for parents and professionals who work with children to educate themselves on the potential dangers of the internet and, in particular, on how children and young people interact with it. In response to this, the Youth and Education Working Group organised a seminar on Cyberbullying in November 2017 with over 30 parents and teachers in attendance. This interactive

seminar explored the effects of technology use on children, cyberbullying prevention and the safe use of technology. The seminar was delivered by Pat Forde of Stopthebully Ireland, who is a leading figure in the on-going anti-bullying debate in Ireland. He has featured on RTE’s television series Bullyproof with Clinical Psychologist, David Coleman as well as being a regular contributor to media debates on the subject.

DiscoverDuhallow@irdduhallow.com

IRD Duhallow is hoping to run further training in this field in the coming year. The Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP) 2018 – 2022 provides funding to tackle poverty and social exclusion through local engagement and partnerships between disadvantaged individuals, community organisations and public sector agencies. Administered by Pobal and funded by the Irish Government through the Department of Rural and Community Development, it also receives funding from the European Social Fund under the Programme for Employability, Inclusion and Learning (PEIL) 2014-2020.

Issue 56 November 26, 2021

Job Centre

Christmas Jobs

By STEPHANIE MOYNIHAN

Can you believe that Christmas time is fast approaching. Where did the year go? With Christmas songs starting to play in shops and Christmas lighting popping up everywhere, it is certainly a great time to check seasonal Christmas job opportunities. Retail and hospitality are key sectors to keep an eye out on. Shops get very busy in the lead up to Christmas and also immediately after Christmas and many shops are looking to hire additional staff. Keep an eye out for notices on shop windows, job portals and the local paper. You could also drop your CV off to the retail outlet you would like to work for. The

Issue 56 November 26, 2021

same applies for bars, restaurants or hotels. There is also usually staff shortages in the courier and delivery sector as Santa seems to be relying on online shopping now more than ever. There are many advantages to picking up a temporary seasonal job. It is not only an opportunity to earn money but also a great opportunity to get a foot in the door in a company which could lead to further career opportunities. It is also a fantastic way to get work experience to boost your CV. IRD Duhallow’s SICAP-funded Job Centre offers support and guidance to people in relation to CV preparation, the interview process and job seeking. Contact Stephanie on 02960633 for assistance. SICAP 2018-2022 is

DiscoverDuhallow@irdduhallow.com

funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development with co-funding from the European Social Fund (ESF) as part of the ESF Programme for Employability, Inclusion and Learning (PEIL) 2014-2020.

Crossword sponsored by Bob’s Bar & Restaurant, Kanturk

€20

Voucher for use at Bob’s Bar & Restaurant, Kanturk

WIN!

To be in with a chance to Terms & Conditions: win a €20 voucher from Deadline for submissions is Bob’s Bar & Restaurant noon on Friday, December in Kanturk for food/drinks, 10th, 2021. First correct complete the crossword entry drawn will win a €20 below and post with your voucher, valid for three name and contact details to: months from date of issue, Discover Duhallow to be redeemed for food/ Puzzle Competition, drinks from Bob’s Bar & James O’Keeffe Institute Restaurant, Kanturk. No Newmarket, cash alternative. Winner will Co. Cork be named in subsequent Or simply scan completed issue of Discover Duhallow. puzzle or take a snap with No correspondence will be your phone and email to: entered into. Voucher to be discoverduhallow@irdduhallow.com collected from Bob’s Bar & Restaurant, Kanturk.

Across 1. Cultivated plot (6) 4. Written musical compositions (6) 9. Film (5) 10. Refrain from voting (7) 11. Listlessness (8) 12. Meat or vegetables cooked slowly (4) 14. Shrink (6) 16. Evaded (6) 19. Part of the neck (4) 20. Resident (8) 23. Inactivity (7) 24. Play (5) 25. Excused (6) 26. Deferred payment (6)

Down 1. Risk taker (7) 2. Stud (5) 3. Panache (8) 5. Monetary value (4) 6. Responded (7) 7. Tendon (5) 8. Freight (5) 13. Flatfish (8) 15. Use up (7) 17. Take away (7) 18. Large expanse of water (5) 19. Dissonance (5) 21. Accolade (5) 22. Pace (4)

Solution: Issue 53, November 12th, 2021

Solution in Issue 55, December 15th, 2021

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WINNER! Well done to James Lucey, Rathmore who wins a €20 voucher from Bob’s Bar & Restaurant, Kanturk!

Issue 56 November 26, 2021

Job Opportunities IRD Duhallow CLG wishes to recruit a Business Development Officer For the Community Services Programme IRD Duhallow is a community-based integrated rural development company that delivers a number of programmes directed at all aspects of the rural economy and population, among them LEADER, SICAP, Strive, 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.

• •

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

• • • • • • •

We are recruiting a Business Development Officer. The role will involve:

Working closely with the CEO, Board of Directors and Working Groups. To be familiar with all the aspects of running a business and assist IRD Duhallow’s Social Enterprises in developing Business Plans and Strategy, Market Research, Marketing Techniques and developing and implementing Marketing Plans. Evaluate the logistics of the business in term of Production Requirements, Implementation in Product and Processes Assessing the financial instruments for the business from 3-year cash flows to profit and loss accounts to Balance Sheets. Grow and Develop the enterprise to achieve profitability and expansion. Animation, Development and Delivery of Social, Economic, Cultural projects in accordance with the requirements of various programmes. To participate in the planning, implementation and monitoring of key programmes. Public Presentations, Report writing, representing the company at events as required. Strategic Planning and securing funding streams. Flexibility to work across programmes. Ensuring compliance with all programme and legislative requirements. Working as part of a team, complimenting and enhancing the skills of the team. To oversee the day to day logistics and daily operations of the social enterprises operated by IRD Duhallow. Strong leadership qualities and strategic thinking. Strong knowledge of HR, people management and working with those employed through different schemes such as CE, Tús and the Rural Social Scheme.

Requirements:

A relevant Honours Bachelor Degree (NFQ Level 8) in Business Development/Rural Development or other relevant areas. Minimum three years’ experience at a senior level in at least one enterprise. Excellent administrative skills including Advanced Excel, PowerPoint and Word. Excellent interpersonal skills and knowledge and experience of Business and Community Development principles and programmes. Excellent report writing skills for Management, Board and Department requirements. Experience of planning, scheduling budgeting, public procurement, GDPR and reporting. Own car and full current driving licence.

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, James O’Keeffe Institute, Newmarket, Co. Cork or email to duhallow@irdduhallow.com to arrive no later than the 1st December, 2021

Issue 56 November 26, 2021

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EIP Update

Duhallow Farming for Blue Dot Catchments EIP Update - November 2021

The Duhallow Farming for Blue Dot Catchments EIP is a results based Agri-environmental scheme that works alongside Duhallow farmers to improve water quality and biodiversity on the Rivers Allow, Dalua, and Owenanare.

The Use of Drone Technology to Map Farmland Hydrology and Biodiversity IRD Duhallow has been the coordinating beneficiary of two successful life projects; SAMOK Life and Raptor life. SAMOK focused on the conservation of Freshwater Pearl Mussel, Atlantic Salmon, Otter, Kingfisher, and Dipper on the River Allow which is a tributary of the River Blackwater SAC. The RaptorLIFE project had the aim of connecting and restoring habitats for Hen harrier, Merlin, Atlantic Salmon and Brook Lamprey in two Natura 2000 sites, the Stacks to Mullaghareirks, Mount Eagle and West Limerick Hills SPA and River Blackwater SAC. IRD Duhallow are currently rolling out the results based Duhallow Farming for Blue Dot Catchments EIP, which aims to work alongside farmers in the catchment to restore and protect a high-status river catchment (See Figure 1 below) using a resultsbased approach.

Much of the farmlands participating in the EIP are located in SACs and/or in a Blue Dot Catchment. As part participation in the Duhallow Blue Dot EIP each farm or land holding is surveyed with all hydrological features such as land

drains, farm Fig 2 yard connection drains, flow pathways and wetland areas mapped. These surveys also allowed the project team to target specific An example of a farm biodiversity map created with GIS measures via software within the Allow catchment. The the source – pathway – receptor project would aim to utilize drone model to prevent nutrient run-off technology to map the biodiversity to watercourses in the catchment. percent of each participating farm Participating farms have and subsequently provide the implemented numerous measures farmer or project participant with as a result of these surveys a biodiversity map of his or her including in-drain settlement holding (see figure 2). In addition, ponds, riparian planting and farm drone technology would allow roadway upgrades to prevent silt the project team to monitor and run-off. catalogue the success of project The use of drone technology to measures over the lifetime of the map the hydrological features on project. This data could be used participating farms would provide in creating awareness through the multiple benefits. These include citizen science approach amongst the fast track identification of the community in the value of high hydrological features, landscape status waterbodies and a healthy mapping of the land holding and environment. the identification of flow pathways The project with the use of to receiving water bodies. It is also drone technology would support anticipated that the technology the government’s commitment of would help the project team carrying out a baseline biodiversity to identify habitats, drains for survey on every farm in the country silt trapping and areas of high as part of the 2020 Programme for pollution impact potential (PIP), Government – Our Shared Future. therefore facilitating the team to The use of Unmanned Aerial put the right measure in the right Vehicle (UAV) technology will place and ultimately increase the likely play an important role if this impact of project outcomes. With goal is to be achieved. The results the support of drone technology, and learnings from the use of the project team would assist UAV technology on IRD Duhallow in the citizen science approach projects will therefore play an with recording of additional data important role in informing future such as biological and habitat policy and best practice. surveys in the riparian zone

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Fig 1

The Duhallow Farming for Blue Dot Catchments EIP Project Area.

Issue 56 November 26, 2021

Duhallow News

Meet the Business Mentors Open Evening – 6th December When? Monday the 6th of December from 6.30pm-7.30pm. How does it work? Simply come along on the evening. You can meet mentors from any of the following fields of expertise who will provide guidance and advice: • Finance • Tax • Marketing • Social Media • Funding • Training

one to one mentoring if required. Who can attend? Anybody who is in business or is thinking about starting up a new business is welcome. Where is it on? The open evening will take place at IRD Duhallow, James O’Keeffe Institute, Newmarket. The event

will take place in a socially distanced manner in compliance with Covid 19 guidelines. Contact Monica for more information. For more information or to register for Meet the Business Mentors Open Evening: Contact Monica Gilmore on 029 60633 or monica.gilmore@ irdduhallow.com

Each mentor will be available for a free consultation and discussion about your business ideas and plans (in a confidential manner). You can ask any questions, get advice, take notes and we can follow up afterwards with further

Issue 56 November 26, 2021

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Feature

The Champion of Far

James O’Keeffe (1920-1981) In Duhallow, James O’Keeffe is a familiar name, but his influence extends far beyond the barony. He was born in the winter of 1920, a different world by all accounts. The world was recovering from World War 1, Ireland was fighting internal battles, and the landscape, while unscathed by The Great War, was tainted by the choices of “higher ups”. In 1933, at just 13, James left school to tend to the family farm 60 acres in Scarteen, Newmarket with 16 cows. He had no way of knowing that this decision would lead to him becoming a figure celebrated over a century later. Farms at the time were numerous but with smaller holdings and the work itself was more practical. In the ever evolving cocoon of technology, it’s easy to forget that there was a time when machines did none of the work, and James was far from alone in turning to the family farm when they needed. With over 800 thousand farms across the country, it was a busy time. And it was the perfect time for change.

In 1968, he was elected to head the Irish Creamery Milk Supplier Association, and by 1969, they were recognised as the voice of dairy farmers, While many The James O’Keeffe Institute, Newmarket factors and members the area, IRD Duhallow included, contributed to this, there’s no strive to keep his memory alive in doubt that James had what their work. former IFA president Donie In April of 1978, James said: “I Cashman described as “just the know I may not be here to see it right qualities”; “quiet diplomacy happen, but many of the young supported by a unique style of farmers will. Ireland will become tenacity, patience, and firmness, the bread basket of Europe in tinged with a sometimes scarcely the ears ahead. It will be a centre perceptible sense of humour”. where only the best food will be With these qualities, James saw produced and will be looked upon a new perspective. He watched as such with confidence through how farmers were divided and Europe. The development of good this division was used against land, good grass, good crops, and them. But in this, he also saw the best of livestock would ensure opportunity. the future prosperity of the Irish He strove for the merging of farmer”. representative groups, and in Since then, leaps and bounds November 1978, this became a have been made in Ireland’s reality with the signing of official impact in produce and the amalgamation intentions. While scale at which it is exported. the signing of the agreement James believed in farmers was formally done by then new and he believed in Ireland and president Anthony Leddy, James the success of Ireland’s dairy was still given the credit. One industry in particular could not be person present is quoted as celebrated without him. having said; “Jimmy may have On November 5th, 1981, James ended up as the bridesmaid, but passed away at just 61. He was it was his day all the same. If mourned by his family, friends, he had changed the water into colleagues, as well as the state wine, nobody would have been at large. His footprint is still in the surprised. grounds of farming history and The successes that were built on there it will remain. The memory the foundation of James O’Keeffe’s of him, of his work, his passions, work can’t be overstated, and are and the impact he had on the too numerous to mention here. It landscape of farming will not be is clear the community respect him forgotten. and cherish his work, and many in

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Issue 56 November 26, 2021

Feature

rmers Remembered Farming then and now

James O’Keeffe was certainly a man with a vision of the future regarding farming in Ireland. It is amazing how farming has changed in the four decades since this great man passed away. The machines have gotten bigger. In relation to cutting silage we have gone from the finger bar mower to the rotary mower and haybob, and from there to the conditioner mower and rake. The entry gaps to fields have gotten considerably wider for these mighty machines to enter. The land now can be monitored through soil sampling, showing us all its nutrients or lack of. In livestock, artificial insemination has come on leap and bounds in relation to the variety and pedigree of animal farmers can produce. Robot farms can now milk a cow without hardly anyone present. Technology aids the modern farmer. Cameras monitor animals inside and out; Moocall is technology able to inform us if an animal is in heat or near calving, all coming into our smartphones. The Irish farmer endured a different pandemic in 2001 with foot and mouth disease. Farming seems to be targeted by those fighting Global Warming but a lot of it is reactionary. There has to be a meeting of the minds. There is considerable red tape now and a lot of it is unnecessary and frankly, it is annoying but the Irish Farmer endures. What would Mr. O’Keeffe think of all of it? It will be interesting to see what way Irish farming will be in 40 years. Tomorrow never knows.

Then and now: How much will farming have changed even by the 50th anniversary of James O’Keeffe’s death?

Issue 56 November 26, 2021

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Health

How To Be Happy!

By ALICE O’BRIEN Psychiatric Nurse

Have you ever googled ‘How to be happy?’ or ‘What can make me happier?’. If you have, you may have noticed that there are about two million answers to these questions. There are countless blogs, accounts, pages, or products that claim to bring us happiness, peace, or contentment. With all of this information, it is easy to become confused or even deflated when we realise that the latest facecream, book, or holiday did not make us completely happy. We might even start to believe that total and complete happiness does not exist. We often believe that happiness

is a natural state that should be an internal characteristic, and should occur without thinking or effort. In fact, happiness takes a certain amount of work, and the pursuit of happiness is not without its struggles or even difficult emotions.

“Happiness is not a goal; it’s a by-product of a life well-lived.” Eleanor Roosevelt

It might be a surprise to hear that research has shown that there is a particular formula for happiness. That formula is as follows; 50 percent of our happiness comes from our genes, 10 percent comes from our circumstances and a full 40 percent of happiness comes from how we chose to live our daily

lives. In other words, how we chose to face our life can have a huge impact on our happiness levels. Practical things like practicing gratitude - noticing the things to be thankful for in our life, giving time and energy to others, making connections with family and friends and taking time to enjoy the simple pleasures in life - watching the sunset, exploring nature, taking up a new hobby, will all tip the balance towards happiness. This formula shows us that we have a choice and that we can be dealt a poor hand or that we can be going through a terrible set of circumstances but how we chose to view and react to this can make all the difference.

Don’t Let Christmas Start Now I hate to mention the C word… but I already hear people saying “sure go on; it’s Christmas”. Chocolates. Mince pies. Biscuits. Alcohol. You will see all these on offer in shops at the moment and it can be very tempting to pick something up “just to have in the house”. You know full well that if you buy those foods, you are going to be the one who ends up eating it. If you start treating the next 6 weeks as Christmas and

eating and drinking in excess, you will more than likely face into the New Year feeling bloated, tired, and unhappy with yourself. That’s when people go looking for the quick fix. There are still a number of weeks to Christmas and time to make improvements to your health before the New Year. Make a commitment to yourself to get out for a walk on your lunch break at work. Not only is this good for your cardiovascular health but the Vitamin D is also badly needed at this time of year with shorter days. Cut takeaways down to once per week, and use the longer evenings to make a conscious effort to cook at home. Looking after your health shouldn’t only be for certain times

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By SIOBHAN O’SULLIVAN

Fitness expert Siobhan O’Sullivan

of the year. We need to look after our health all year round so mind your body over these next few weeks and enjoy Christmas for the few days that it is. sosfitnesscoaching SOS Fitness

Issue 56 November 26, 2021

Health

Combating Christmas Stress

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WINNER

Issue 56 November 26, 2021

and Omega 3. Eat more fruit, vegetables, beans and lentils, eggs, meat, oily fish, nuts and seeds. Lifestyle changes can also help. Find activities that help you to relax and de-stress the mind and make them a regular practice in daily life. Take walks in nature, try meditation, play music; find time to do what you enjoy. Finally, and maybe most importantly, don’t be shy to ask for help if you need it.

WINNER

Christmas can be demanding financially, physically and emotionally, but there are ways to reduce your stress levels. Cortisol is the stress hormone that is secreted by the adrenal glands in response to pressure, it allows us to cope and respond in a manner that preserves quality of life. Short term stress, like that experienced during an exam, can be useful and improve performance. The cortisol level returns to normal once the cause of the stress has passed. However, in some situations the cause of the stress remains and this keeps stress levels high for long periods of time. Long-term increased cortisol

may cause high blood pressure, heart disease, osteoporosis, and other chronic diseases. Cortisol may also increase appetite and cause weight gain. Research has found that adaptogens such as Ashwaghanda and Rhodiola can help your body adapt to physical, chemical, environmental and emotional stress, and can also exert a normalising effect on bodily processes and the production of cortisol. Nervines such as Passiflora act directly upon the nervous system to soothe stress. Supporting the stress response with herbs should be done in tandem with eliminating processed and high sugar foods and eating more wholefoods which contain the main nutrients required for normal adrenal function - Vitamin B5, Vitamin C, Magnesium

By MAIREAD O’KEEFFE

Congratulations to Dr. Maher’s gift box winner, Siobhan O’Sullivan!

Duhallow News

Pest Poisons And Pets

By JANE PIGOTT

GP vet & consultant Veterinary Cardiologist

Recently, we have noticed an increase in the number of patients presenting to our hospital having consumed rat poison or slug bait. Dogs do love to eat things they shouldn’t, and if I could pick something to be top of my list of things I wish pets wouldn’t love to accidentally snack on, these two would be vying for top position! Rat poison ingestion in dogs results in severe blood clotting abnormalities, meaning that patients may lose significant amounts of blood through internal bleeding and bruising in the days to weeks after eating it. The more the pet eats, the worse the

situation, however depending on the exact type of rat poison, even the tiniest quantity being eaten can have devastating consequences if treatment from your vet is not sought as soon as your pet’s accidental ingestion has been noticed. Bringing your pet to the vet swiftly after the poison has been eaten may give your vet the option of decontaminating the stomach by inducing vomiting, with supportive treatment to combat the onset of a clotting problem. Medication is required in every case, even if inducing vomiting was not an option for your pet. Rat poison ingestion can be fatal, but with swift and careful veterinary management, you pet has the best chance of a positive outcome. Slug pellets contain a compound called metaldehyde, which causes neurological signs in dogs in

the hours following ingestion. Initial signs such as drooling and wobbliness, progress rapidly to seizures; in many cases slug pellet ingestion can be fatal. Similarly, taking swift action by visiting your vet as soon as the slug pellet ingestion has been recognised gives you pet the best chance of recovery. Avoid the stress and worry of these situations by ensuring that all such poisons are kept securely away from any prying dog noses!

Ingredient Solutions Ltd Given Top Sustainability Award Ingredient Solutions Ltd is a forward thinking company. The business was founded in 2000 with “innovation” at the heart of the mission statement. Despite these most turbulent times, Ingredient Solutions continues winning and maintaining contracts with some of the UK and Europe’s leading names in food service and production, and now export cheese to the food industry all over the world. In 2020, Ingredient Solutions began a proactive route to achieving sustainability, recognising it was the business’ responsibility to measure The core Ingredient Solutions production its impact on the environment and to team with the Platinum medal from take action to achieve sustainability. EcoVadis for Sustainability awarded The company began working with November 2021. EcoVadis to set sustainability L-R: Esther Linehan (Office Manager), targets and measure its success in Margarete Morski (Production Manager), achieving them. This has resulted in the award of the top ranking, the Suma Lakshmana (Technical Manager), Platinum Medal in 2021, achieved Ian Galletly (Managing Director), Claire O’Gorman (Procurement Manager) by only 1% of businesses.

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Managing Director, Ian Galletly said, “Having a sustainable business is critical in the current climate. As we grow, we invest, and the Ecovadis platform was the ideal way for us to benchmark our progress. The team did a great job gaining Silver status first time round last year. That inspired us to aim higher still, and we raised our game sufficiently to secure Platinum recognition, a huge achievement. To be in the top 1% of businesses assessed by Ecovadis is something we are really proud of. It’s now all about retaining and building for the future.” Ingredient Solutions are at the forefront of their industry. A great deal of credit for the achievement lies with two key members of staff - Technical Manager, Suma Lakshmana, and Production Manager, Margarete Morski, who have been the driving force of this initiative.

Issue 56 November 26, 2021

Feature

The Search for Spock By TREVOR O’DONOGHUE

Mr. Spock as portrayed by the late Leonard Nemoy

sky, a little to the right and at the the star with your own eyes and bottom of the Constellation Orion. imagine the possibilities. You can It is faint, but visible to the naked use the accompanying star chart to eye from a dark sky, or easily find it. Find the constellation Orion visible with binoculars. first and star hop from one star to When Gene Roddenberry the other to find it. created Star Trek, the only planets known were the nine planets of our solar system. No one had found planets around other stars. But in 1992, that all changed with the discovery of the first extrasolar planet. Today there are many thousands Up to 150 shooting stars an hour can be seen on a of extrasolar good night for the Geminids Shooting Stars planets with many more being found every year. December shooting stars. Truth, they say, is stranger Keep an eye out on the night of than fiction. Turns out that there is the 13th/14th of December for a planet in orbit around 40 Eridani the Geminids shooting stars. On after all, a real planet Vulcan if you a good dark night you can see will. Discovered in 2018, the planet up to 150 shooting stars an hour. is about 8.5 times heavier than Unfortunately this year the moon Earth and whips around it’s star in is in the way, so the sky won’t be 42 days or so. It is very close to its fully dark. It will still be worthwhile star and so is too hot for complex to have a look, you’d never know life, so no chance of finding Spock your luck or what you might see. there. However, you can see

In the mid 60’s, Star Trek first came to our screens and has been with us ever since. It is a cultural phenomenon with new Star Trek shows still under development today, almost seventy years later. The starship Enterprise is still boldly going where no man has gone before and in the real world, Captain Kirk, William Shatner has just this year been to space on board Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin space ship. As well known as Captain Kirk, or perhaps even more so, is Mr. Spock, the original Star Trek alien. Spock is a Vulcan and his home world is the planet Vulcan. The writers of Star Trek were kind enough to let us know where we might find Vulcan. It orbits around a star called 40 Eridani. 40 Eridani is a real star over 16 light years from Earth in the constellation Eridanus. It is found in the winter A home photo taken by Trevor on a smart phone of 40 Eridani and the real “Vulcan planet”.

Issue 56 November 26, 2021

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Interests

Back And To The Left 30 years on, Oliver Stone’s electrifying masterpiece JFK (1991) delves into the fractured, paranoid psyche of a country in the wake of it’s slain president. On November 22nd 1963, the 35th president of the United States of America, John Fitzgerald Kennedy, was fatally shot in Dallas, Texas. It emerged Lee Harvey Oswald was the man that pulled the trigger and he was arrested. Two days later Oswald was shot dead by a local nightclub owner, Jack Ruby. The Warren Commission was established to investigate the assassination. In the end, it was concluded that Oswald acted alone. But for many of the American people, including New Orleans District Attorney, Jim Garrison, the details of this horrendous event just didn’t sit right. More figures had to be involved, and he was determined to bring those really responsible to trial. That is the story of JFK; Garrison’s investigation into the death of John F. Kennedy. Kevin Costner stars as Garrison, and he anchors the film superbly. It has an unreal cast of people, so many recognisable actors but there is method to this. There are a lot of characters for the audience to remember. Stone throws so much at us, but it’s the way he does it that is truly

Gary Oldman as Lee Harvey Oswald 18

effective; different film formats, black and white, jump cuts, non linear storytelling. It runs for 205 minutes, but man alive does it move. It kind of loses momentum with the domestic “We’re through the looking glass here, people” life of Garrison; he Kevin Costner as Jim Garrison. had the weight of Apparently, it has even more the world on his information regarding the case. shoulders and it was affecting his Where do I stand in my home life. In fact, some of these scenes feel the most movie-ish but take on the death of John F. Kennedy? There was more than this can be forgiven. one gunman that day, no doubt. All the details; the crappy gun Oswald was using, the man by the underpass getting shrapnel, the various witnesses who saw and heard unusual things throughout that afternoon, John Connolly’s and Kennedy’s injuries, the ‘magic bullet’ theory, “back and to the Three bullets in 5.6 seconds? left…” on and on it goes. Kennedy was trying to “Back and to the left” make change happen for the better relates to the final shot Kennedy and he was received, suggesting the shot cut down in came from the Grassy Knoll and his prime not the book depository building by those where allegedly Oswald was who wanted positioned. a different The movie seems to outcome. channel the dark psyche of the It feels nation after Kennedy’s death like since Confused, shocked, paranoid, Kennedy afraid, angry! It gathers all the was killed, conspiracy theories regarding Sissy Spacek as Liz no president JFK’s death; the Mafia, CIA, Garrison has dared Cuba, the American government. step outside the status quo and It runs wild with them but at try to radically change things up. the same time, Stone has America would have been vastly his take on what may have different today. Robert Kennedy happened and sticks to it. too could have led a presidency It won Best Editing at the but... It’s depressing to think about. 1992 Oscars and deservedly But that’s what Stone wants us to so. Just this year, Stone do, he wants us to think. released JFK Revisited: Available on DVD, Blu Ray & to Through the Looking Glass stream on YouTube. which I really want to see.

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Issue 56 November 26, 2021

Kid’s Page

THEME: CHRISTMAS STORIES S O N S E A

F O R

S A M T S I R H C ART TION I T E P COM

' T I S

T H E

SPO BY NSOR DCF ED S

RECREATE YOUR FAVOURITE CHRISTMAS SCENE

however you like - paint, pencil, marker, you name it!

How to enter Send to Scan and email to OR Discover Duhallow Art discoverduhallow@ Competition, IRD Duhallow, James O’Keeffe Institute, Newmarket, Co.Cork

irdduallow.com with the subject line “Discover Duhallow Art Competition”

Closing date for entries December 10th.

Groups

A - 5 and under D - 14-16 B - 6-9 E - 17-18 C - 10-13 F - AN* And one lucky dip winner! *AN: Additional Needs. Note there are no age restrictions on this category.

Winners will be announced in the Dec 17th issue of Discover Duhallow Be sure to include your name, age/ category, address, and a contact number!

EOUS G R O G IS WIN TH AKE! C BISCUIT Issue 56 November 26, 2021

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Interests

The Season of Advent By TOM DENNEHY

What is it about preparing for Christmas that fills us with such a sense of anticipation? We see it in the eyes of our children and grandchildren. We see in our own eager planning for holiday meals and gatherings, and we see it in the decoration in our homes and shopping centres. We all treasure our family and Christmas traditions, but there is more going on here. Deep down, we sense that some thing important is about to happen and we need to get ready for it. That is the story of Advent. The word “Advent” was adopted from the Latin “adventus” meaning “coming” or “arrival”. A holy season of grace and favour from the Lord. Every year, we are given four weeks to prepare and welcome Jesus at Christmas. Advent begins on the week end of November 28th and ends on Christmas Eve. It is active preparation as we wait in hope for the coming of our saviour Jesus Christ. During Advent, each Sunday’s gospel has a distinctive theme. First Sunday – the Lord’s coming at the end of time. Second and Third Sunday- John the Baptist and his message – preparing the way for the Lord. The Fourth Sunday – the events that prepared immediately for The Lord’s birth. We light our Advent wreath representing the four weeks of Advent. Three of the candles are purple because the colour violet is a liturgical colour that signifies a time of prayer, penance and sacrifice. The first candle lit on first Sunday

symbolizes hope. Hope is God’s faithfulness. Hope is a forgiving God. Hope is keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus no matter what happens in the world. The second symbolizes faith. Faith in a God who fulfils his promises to us. The third is pink and symbolizes joy. This is known as Gaudete Sunday, which is meant to remind us of the joy the world experienced at the birth of Christ. The fourth symbolizes peace. A Peace that only God can give. A peace our world very much needs today. The white candle placed in the middle and lit on Christmas Eve is called the Christ candle and represents purity. This time leading up to Christmas invokes all kinds of emotions. It is a sad time for many who have lost loved ones and we should make a special effort to reach out to them. People on their own may be lonely especially during this Covid time when home visiting is restricted, so a phone call or a Christmas card or a letter would mean a lot to them. Advent could be a time of reflection when we stop and reflect on what’s important in life. Certainly, living with Covid 19 has changed us in how we now make our list of priorities. Advent is about how our hearts are prepared to welcome the baby Jesus on Christmas morning. So

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now during this time, we too can light our Advent candle in our homes and spend some time in prayer each day. The rosary is our greatest prayer. Read the first two chapters of St. Luke Gospel which gives an account of the events leading up to the birth of Jesus. Avail of the Sacrament of Confession and make our hearts and soul right with God. Make a special effort to get to Mass as often as we can. We then can look forward with a heart fully prepared to welcome Jesus on Christmas morning. He is Emanuel, God with us.

St Andrew’s Christmas Novena begins on November 30th which is St Andrew’s feast day. “Hail and blessed be the hour and moment in which the son of God was born of the most pure Virgin Mary at midnight in Bethlehem in the piercing cold. In that hour vouchsafe, I beseech thee. O my God, to hear my prayer and grant my desires through the merits of Our Saviour Jesus Christ, and his blessed Mother” Recite fifteen times each day until Christmas Eve. Issue 56 November 26, 2021

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Issue 56 November 26, 2021

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Issue 56 November 26, 2021

Advertising

Issue 56 November 26, 2021

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Issue 56 November 26, 2021