Rural Schemes to Rejig Ministers Secure Changes for Schemes
CE and Tús are employment schemes to assist long term unemployed people and other disadvantaged people.
The Rural Social Scheme (RSS) is an income support scheme for farmers that provides part-time employment opportunities and is specifically designed and delivered to farmers to ensure they keep farming while working part time. The types of work CE, Tús
and RSS participants are involved in vary in each area. Information on each scheme are available through the IRD Duhallow website and on Citizen’s Information.
These changes represent a step forward in supporting a host of people on each of these schemes, and are outlined inside.
page 9
Participants work on a variety of community projects that improve areas.
Advertising
We are excited to announce that we are expanding our team at Ballyhass Childcare Facility CLG. We are hiring for the following positions with immediate start pending garda vetting clearance and verified references;
Early Years Educators (40hrs ) hiring multiple candidates with both term time and full time positions available
Requirement:
• Minimum Qualification: FETAC/QQI level 5
• Available to cover shifts between 7.45am and 6.15pm
• A passion for working with children
• Ability to work as part of a team and to work on own initiative
• Commitment to Continuous Professional Development
Desirable:
• Manual Handling, First Aid and Food Hygiene Training
• 2 years’ experience working in a childcare environment
• A working knowledge of Aistear and Siolta
• Experience using a programme (eg. Child Paths, Little Vista) for record keeping
Kitchen Assistant (22hrs pw) for our busy Kitchen here at Ballyhass Childcare facility CLG.
Requirement:
• Available to cover shifts between 7.45am and 6.15pm
• Basic cooking skills
• Ability to work as part of a team and to work on own initiative
• Commitment to Continuous Professional Development
Desirable but not limited to:
• Manual Handling, First Aid and Fie Safety training.
• Food Hygiene Training, Allergen Awareness training and HACCP qualification
• 2 years’ experience working in a kitchen environment
Administrator (15 -20hrs pw) This position will provide clerical support to the Management team and employees of Ballyhass Childcare facility CLG
The duties will include :
• Management of registrations on portals for government schemes (training will be provided)
• Maintaining attendance records on Childpaths
• Bill keeping and recording payments from parents
• Processing invoice payments
• Answering the phone, taking and passing on messages
• Providing administration support to the Manager and Supervisors in their roles
Requirements :
• Excellent Organisational Skills
• Excellent Interpersonal Skills
• Good working knowledge of Microsoft WORD, EXCEL and POWER POINT
• Ability to work on own initiative and to work as part of a team
Benefits and what we can offer;
Access to our Employee Assistance Programme Time in Lieu for staff training/staff meetings
Paid lunch breaks
Sick pay
Staff uniform
Continuous professional development
The opportunity to work with a team of dedicated professionals in a purpose built childcare setting
Free parking
If you want to make a difference in young children’s lives and would like to join our team, please email your CV with two written references to cairdeasbh@gmail.com or by post to Cathy Lonergan, Ballyhass Childcare Facility CLG, Ballyhass, Cecilstown, Mallow, Co Cork P51 AT21.
Editor’s Note
Is this our Summer?
Let’s hope, because we finally managed to get in a recipe for some delicious Fresh Fruit Ice Lollies!
Schools everywhere are celebrating a fantastic summer and some wonderful trips. Kevin joined Tadhg to venture out to Kanturk mart for a special two part feature on the rise of the mart, the history, and how it fared through the pandemic and beyond.
Enjoy the sun and wear your suncream!
- Caleb
To have your news included, contact us via:
Email: Discoverduhallow@irdduhallow.com
Phone: 029-60633
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ DiscoverDuhallowMagazine
Keep an eye out online for the latest issue of Discover Duhallow, revisit your favourite articles, and have a look into what we’re doing next.
Duhallow News
Laharn Dog Show
Laharn Cross welcomes a fun dog show on July 17th at 2pm sharp! Entries are taken
Prizes include dog food, trophies, and rosettes!
Entry fee: €3 Enquiries to 086 3012164
086 8434877
Laharn Cross, Lombardstown, Mallow, Co.Cork P51 N726
Are you interested in working from the broadband hub at Laharn
Sign up for the national connectedhubs.ie vouchers scheme, and access 3 free data of hub use! Vouchers valid until the end of August.
Learn more about the hub a connectedhubs.ie/hubs/profile/1593
Hollymount Celebration
Hollymount NS celebrates 150 years on Sat 1st October 2022. Any old photos, write-ups, memorabilia etc. related to Hollymount NS would be greatly appreciated and can be posted or emailed to the school by 1st Aug.
Alternatively, contact 150th committee members
Don 0868101266 or Brendan 0862158508
Spread the word and all welcome!
Classes:
• Puppy under 12 months
• Gun Dog
• Beginner (adult with any breed of dog)
• Terrier (smooth or rough coat)
• Local dog
• Best groomed dog
• Pastoral
• Mixed breed
• Small dog (excluding terrier)
• Medium dog
• Large dog
• Children’s handling under 10/16 years
• Dog handled by lady
• Dog handled by gent
• Veteran class (over 7 years)
• Working dog
• Best dressed dog
• Collie Dog
• The dog the judge would like to take home
• Rescue dog
• Utility class
• Brace Class
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, as well as work spaces. Contact 085 1741551 or 087 9924821
Wordsworth can take the hassle out of Back to School! Send them your list and they take care of the rest. Services include:
• School books
• School stationary
• School bags
• Book covering service
• Lunch bags and supplies
Duhallow News
Happy belated birthday to Eileen O’Keeffe, Kanturk, who recently celebrated her 101st birthday with friends and family.
Multiactivity Summer Camp Banteer and Dromahane
From €79, 10% Sibling Discount! Gymnastics, self-defense, box aerobics, dancing, games, and much more!
2nd - 5th August - Dromahane NS
8th - 12th August Banteer Community Sports Field
Contact: schoolfitnessireland.com office@schoolfitnessireland.com
Get the girls together!
Donoughmore welcomes Anne Gildea’s How To Get The Menopause And Enjoy It on July 22nd at 7.30pm. Enjoy pre-show wine and cheese reception in Stuake, Donoughmore, Co.Cork, P32 FP49.
Tickets: €20
Purchase local or by phone on: 086 357 8879
Knocknagree
Knocknagree Community Development Group were delighted to open the Playground in the Village on Thursday 23rd of June.
Big thank you to Cork County Council, Maura Walsh and all the staff in IRD Duhallow, Cllr. Bernard Moynihan, Cllr. John Paul O’ Shea, TD Michael Moynihan, Kompan for an excellent job, our fundraising group and the whole community for supporting our fundraising efforts.
Teach Ceoil Rockchapel
Bruach na Carraige traditional seisuin every Tuesday night for July and August in the Teach Ceoil Rockchapel at 9pm
Wedding Bells Congratulations to well-known singer Annmarie O’Riordan Knockcahill who married Anthony Holmes Murroe on Saturday 25th June in Dromagh Church.
Kanturk Library
Enjoy free access to the largest online database of Irish Newspapers. Contact 029 51384 or Kanturklibrary@corkcoco.ie.
Haggart Bar and Grill Freemount
The Haggart has announced that their kitchen will be closed from 21st July to 24th July.
Ring Of Kerry Cycle
Congratulations to all participants who took part in Ring of Kerry Cycle the first weekend of July.
Do you want to share something from your community or a celebration of your own? Email us on discoverduhallow@irdduhallow.com or post your content to Discover Duhallow, James O’Keeffe Institute, Newmarket, Co.Cork.
Duhallow News
Irish Community Air Ambulance
Well done to those in the Camino Fundraiser 2022! In their first overseas trip, the group (cyclists and walkers) raised an incredible €103,000! The team stated this amount “in practical terms could fund their fuel for 6 months of this year, by land and air”.
Another trip will be coming in OctoberKeep your eye on their socials!
Duhallow News
Rockchapel Playground Officially Opened
Donagh Broderick with his mum Gobnait
Niamh Collins
Amy Rose and Geaórid Mangan with their Mum Noreen, Amelia and Ajay Sheehan
Moya McBride and Maura Mulcahy
Leo Casey, Mya Casey, Una Casey, Gearóid Mangan
Gearóid and Daithí Hickey with their Mum Elaine and Nan Marian Browne.
Brian Moloney. Assistant Manager RES and Maura Walsh, CEO IRD Duhallow, officially opened the new Playground in Rockchapel with Den Stack, Danjoe Murphy, Michael McAuliffe, Taurbeg Windfarm Manager, Councillor John Paul O’ Shea, Councillor Gerard Murphy, Fr. Denis Stritch PP, Neily Curtin, Chairman of Rockchapel Community Council, Breda Curtin, Secretary and Denise McCarthy Chair of the Playground Group.
All photos by Sheila Fitzgerald
Historical Journal Launches
Volume I of
Dúchas: The Duhallow Historical Journal will be launched at 8pm on Saturday, 23 July. The launch will take place in the recently refurbished Cultúrlann Mhic Amhlaoibh, Newmarket, which is a beautiful new venue located in the old Protestant church in the town.
The journal contains fifteen contributions, twelve of which are in English and three in Irish. Among the contributors are a mixture of local authors and university academics. The history and folklore of Duhallow and its hinterland are the focus. Places touched upon include, but are not confined to, Ballydaly, Ballydesmond, Banteer, Castlemagner, Clara, Clonmeen, Cullen, Donaghmore, Drishane, Dromagh, Dromtarriff,
Kanturk, Knocknagree, Liscahane, Millstreet, Nadd, Rathcoole and Tullylease. Contributions are currently being sought for volume II, which it is hoped will appear in 2023.
All will be welcome at the launch. Copies of the journal may be purchased there, in local bookshops, or by contacting the editor at the following email address: aoganohiarlaithe@gmail. com.
Dromagh Class of 2022
From left to right: - Ronan Murphy, Mr. McAuliffe (Principal), Kalab Kearney O’Sullivan, Charlie Daly, Jack Buckley and Dylan McAuliffe.
Best of luck to all of the 6th class boys who are about to embark on a new chapter in their educational journey. A celebration on their last day at the school was held on Monday 27th June 2022. Stories were retold, friendships and laughs were echoed within the corridors and classroom . A great morning for family, friends and the school community on their departure.
Ádh mór sna blianta amach romhainn.
Dromagh NS wishes to thank the students for their continued great work throughout the years in school. A very special thank you to the parents, grandparents, friends, and relatives of the 6th class who supported, encouraged, and helped them while in primary school. The staff of the school would like to express extreme gratitude to the parents for their continued support through the years.
Ministers announce major reforms to schemes
The Minister for Social Protection, Heather Humphreys TD, has secured Cabinet approval for a number of major reforms to Community Employment, Tús and the Rural Social Scheme.
There are currently over 19,000 participants on CE, almost 5,000 participants on Tús and just under 3,000 participants on the Rural Social Scheme (RSS). Government investment in the three schemes will amount to over €500 million in 2022.
Minister Humphreys secured Government approval for the following changes:
• Removal of the six-year time limit for all participants on the Rural Social Scheme.
• Eligibility for Tús extended to persons in receipt of Disability Payments
• New flexibility to allow CE schemes to
directly recruit eligible candidates to fill 30% of places.
• Intreo to significantly increase the number of referrals to CE with schemes required to offer places to at least 60% of candidates referred.
• New Pilot Scheme to extend eligibility to Qualified Adults to be explored
• Continue to allow schemes to extend individual placements and retain existing participants in cases where no replacement candidate has been selected. This means that local services should not be impacted due to an inability to replace participants.
These measures are in addition to previous changes introduced by Ministers Humphreys and O’Brien earlier this year which allow participants on CE and RSS who are aged over 60 to remain on schemes until retirement.
Cork’s Ladies Fashion’s Lunch and a Show
Massive well done to Cork ladies! Rhona Abbey, Renate Murphy, and Celestine McCoy set up a fantastic fundraising lunch in Isaacs Restaurant in Cork City for IRD Duhallow’s Ukranian response. Tickets sold for €100 each and covered the drinks reception, a 3 course lunch with wine, generous spot prizes and live entertainment by Sharon Crosbie and a fashion show. On the day, there were approximately 120 in attendance from all sectors from small business to charity to the corporate world. A host of designers also attended including fashion from Sheena’s Boutique
and ItsoMe, millinery from Hattitude, bags from DANNYALBU - the leather studio of Kinsale, and Jewellery from Design’d. This fantastic event was sponsored by EY and the Barry Group, and thanks to this, every penny of ticket cost went directly to funds for Ukranians who have been displaced by the ongoing invasion. IRD Duhallow has been working with rest centres to help
secure homes, work, and a variety of necessities for as many as possible. Well done to all involved!
L-R - Aisling Kelleher (EY), Aileen Daly (Tax Partner EY), Maura Walsh (CEO IRD Duhallow) Geraldine O’Leary (AON, and IRD Duhallow Board), Sarah McGrath (EY). Photo by Colm Lougheed
L-R - Aisling Kelleher (Senior Manager EY), Aileen Daly (Tax Partner EY) and Sarah McGrath (Director, EY) Photo by Colm Lougheed
The LTI Horticulture Group Plant Sale
ABOVE LEFT: The LTI Horticulture Group finally had their Plant Sale at the James O’Keeffe Institute recently. Here you can see some of the locals that turned out for the day. It was a great success with a variety of perennials, herbs, fruit bushes etc. LTI Group coordinator, Rachel Budd, was also on hand to give gardening tips and advice to customers who had queries.
ABOVE RIGHT: IRD Duhallow’s Michael O’Connor making a purchase from Rachel.
All photos by Tadhg Curtin
L- R: Mary Nolan & Ann Keogh
L-R: Ann Murphy & Anne Goggin
L-R: Ellen Duggan, Macroom & Dorothy Finn, London Noreen O’Keeffe
Tim McAuliffe
Crossword sponsored by Duhallow Community Food Services
Across
1. Plaid (6)
4. Inveigle (6)
9. Plane figure with straight sides (7)
10. Publish (5)
11. Creep (5)
12. Plant with prickly-edged leaves (7)
13. Schedule (6)
15. Despot (6)
18. Producing a sensation of touch (7)
20. Investigation (5)
22. Performed (5)
23. Gathered together in large numbers (7)
24. Objective (6)
25. Formal proposal to buy (6)
Solution: Issue 67, July 1st 2022
Down
1. Subject (5)
2. Let go (7)
3. Investor in theatrical production (5)
5. Nimbleness (7)
6. Beginning or early stages (5)
7. Best environment for a plant or animal (7)
8. Become one (5)
13. Draw in (7)
14. Diminish (7)
16. Kept away from (7)
17. Impart skills or knowledge (5)
19. Supply food ready to eat (5)
20. Provide evidence for (5)
21. Type of duck (5)
WINNER
Congratulations to Maureen Fleming, Ballydesmond, who wins a €20 voucher for Duhallow Community Food Services!
To be in with a chance to win a €20 voucher for Duhallow Community Food Services 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, July 22nd 2022.
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. No correspondence will be entered into. Voucher to be collected from Duhallow Community Food Services, Newmarket.
Dromagh N.S.
Dromagh’s Big Days Out!
The Junior Room pupils congregated at the school grounds on Friday 24th June. There was great excitement for the day ahead. The rain started to fall heavily. Ms. Edel Sheehan, Ms. Kate O’Keeffe and Ms. Siobhan Kelleher were awaiting to reassure parents and children that the day would awaken from its dark clouds and enjoyment would be had by all. The laughter and banter echoed within the bus. The fun and anticipation of what was in store was contagious!
Walking around Rumley Farm when the rain vanished, what did the children see or do? The children spotted cool, cute, cuddly animals like rabbits, pigs, llamas, wolves, the puppies called Jack and Jill and much more! They caught a glimpse of the growing herd of cows. Waiting around the corner was Rumley’s Milking Machine Robot! The tractor trailer rides could have kept going all day and they would have kept returning for more! The pedal go karts were in high demand amongst the children, too. There were many more games, all of which were given the thumbs up.
After a busy day on the farm the children had refreshments and relaxation. Shopping had to be done prior to leaving for home and pocket money had to be spent! A fun filled day exploring animal habitats and taking a closer look at the wild and wonderful variety of animals living on Rumley ‘s Farm. “Best Day ever” and “Great fun” were the approving words of the children.
Cody and the girls Go-Karting
Enjoying the tractor ride Jack and Sarah
Jack, Molly, Sarah, Lara, Ellie, and Alva
Lara feeding the sheep
Ms. Sheehan, Ms. Kate Manix, and Tara
Tara looking on during feeding time
Tractor ride
What time is it, Mr. Wolf?!
Eoghan petting the animals
On Friday 24th June the Senior Room departed the school grounds for the Capital. The weather wasn’t very kind, rain, more rain! Weather permitting or not, it didn’t deter or dampen the spirits of the teachers, Mr. McAuliffe, Ms, Dineen, Ms. Mannix or the children. As the Old Oak Tree was left behind, the fun and vocals on the bus began. From early morning excitement filled the air. Firstly, we headed to Croke Park. The boys and girls had a fabulous time within and were dreaming of attending or playing for Cork the next day! Mr. McAuliffe was only wishing that it was Kerry who was in the playing the following day! Onto the museum where the history of the GAA was explained. Jerseys had to be bought! Photos had to be taken.
Next up was Liffey Valley Shopping Centre –for some retail therapy! Onwards to Jump ZoneIreland’s first and Europe’s largest indoor trampoline sports park for some fun and games. After an afternoon of fun in Dublin we headed for the Rebel County once again. The bus arrived at the school as the night sky was falling upon our Old Oak Tree in the school yard. Smiling faces
Dromagh N.S.
Students were welcomed to lift
Bottom
Top left: Being given a tour of the grounds of
Croker
left: Ben in the tunnel leading into Croker
Above: Ben, Charles, Luke, Darragh, Ronan, Jack, Dylan, Conor, Kaleb, Amy, Lucy. Front row, Emma and Alice
Champions!:
the cups; L-R - Amy and Alice, Dylan and Conor, and Ronan and Jack
disembarked from the bus. A great day was had by all!
Over 60 years of Kanturk Co-Operative Mart Pt. 1
By TADHG CURTIN
The year 2019 saw Kanturk Co - Operative Mart celebrate 60 years in business. It was quite an achievement. A wonderful banquet was held to celebrate such an anniversary with a wonderful night had by everyone who attended. But as we all know, 2019 seemed to be the last peaceful time before the world stopped for nearly two years.
Yet Kanturk Mart adapted to the unique situation, taking their auctions online. Even now, as things have returned to normal, the online auction has proved very beneficial to those unable come in person to bid. According to current Mart Chairman John Cott, 40% of the livestock sales in Kanturk are done online. It is some difference to the Mart’s humble beginnings in 1959, but it involved the same mindset - forward thinking.
Before the concept of Marts came into being, purchasing and selling cattle was done at street fairs. Not many are old enough to remember the dodgy dealing and tangling at these things, but the introduction of Marts was a blessing. However, many in the rural community were sceptical at this prospect, fearing a disastrous downturn in business. But prior to selling and buying at a Mart, very few farmers knew the actual weight of their animals and therefore could not put a proper weight on them. Farmers were often exploited and cheated by unscrupulous dealers who would attempt to purchase cattle from unsuspecting owner at hugely undervalued prices on the way to the fair. A group of men with great vision foresaw the great benefits a local Mart would bring to the area. And so, the wheels of this new venture were first set in motion at a meeting of the Special Members
of the Kanturk Co-Operative Mart Ltd on June 19th 1959. The main driving force behind the project was sought to not only seek finance from local farmers, but the business community in Kanturk. The response for finance from the town was strong and immediately forthcoming, and it was decided to purchase a field situated in the heart of the town - known locally as the Circus Field - for £2000. The minutes from that meeting proudly recorded the following words -
“You are now in business through your own efforts and without aid or grants from the State or any other source”.
The first auction was held on November 2nd 1959 with calves going on sale. Jim Power was appointed the Marts first Manager in October 1959. He proved to a very popular choice, having a great reputation for interacting with farmers in a very open and transparent manner. He retained that position until his retirement in 1979. In the early years, Colm Cronin and John O’Connell were the first auctioneers. They were
later joined by Phil Burton TD, who was excluded from that post as he was then acting as Chairman of the Committee. Mikey Breen was the first auctioneers’ clerk. The Mart was also served by the following auctioneers; James Crowley, Paddy O’Connor, Joseph T. Cronin, and Dan O’Reilly.
And so the mart’s reputation grew. It was not unusual for cattle dealers to travel all the way down from the Midlands and the north each week as they became aware of the high quality of Duhallow livestock being produced in the area. Indeed during particularly busy periods for the mart, staff oversaw the buying and selling of up to 1,300 calves in one day.
That tradition continues to this day. The economy is very scatter shot right now as a result of the pandemic and what is happening in the Ukraine, but Kanturk CoOperative Mart endures. There are some experienced individuals who are still coming to the Mart who can attest to the many changes since the Marts conception, which you can look forward to in Part 2.
ABOVE LEFT: L-R Joe Egan, Austin O’Toole, Tony Langan & Bobby Shields, May 1972. ABOVE RIGHT: Myles O’Reilly from Co. Monaghan giving a hand at the calf auction, July 13th 2022.
Kanturk Co-Operative Mart LTD.
Founder Committee, November 1959 STANDING: M. Herlihy, C. O’Sullivan, E.P. Hipwell, Manager National Bank T.G. Daly, P. McAuliffe, T.D, M.C.C, W.J. Lenahan (Solr to Mart), B. O’Sullivan, C. O’Callagahn, J.J. Smith.
SITTING: J. Ahern, P.P. O’Connoor, J. Power (Secretary), P. Burton, M.C.C. Chairman, E. Kiely, T. O’Reilly (Vice Chairman), D. Herlihy. Absent: T. F. Bourke, J. Barry.
ABOVE: Phil Burton, Canon O’Leary - blessing the Mart upon its opening, Fr. Twomey & JIm Power.
LEFT: Kanturk Mart released a wonderful publication in 2019 commemorating its 60 years in operation. Proceeds from the books sales went to Dogs for the Disabled Dromcollogher & District Respite Centre. Jim Power Secretary & Philip Burton
1959
Chairman at the opening of the Mart in
Duhallow News
Girl Guides Visit The James O’Keeffe Complex
Boherbue branch of the Irish Girls Guides hosted the annual South West Regional Camp in the grounds of the James O’Keeffe Institute from the 8th to the 11th of July. The title was Camp Infinity and the theme was Sustainable Consumerism. A total of 95 guides, rangers and leaders from Boherbue, Macroom, Kilcummin, Dunmanway and Carrigrouhill participated.
Camp on Friday kicked off with the opening ceremony and the flag raising followed by a night hike to the Island Woods. On Saturday the girls headed to Ballyhass for an action packed day on land and water and were very grateful
to return to the James O’Keeffe Institute for a fabulous barbecue provided by Duhallow Community Food Services. Sunday was filled with workshops around the Island Woods and the grounds of the James O’Keeffe Institute. Thomas Ankettell and his colleagues from Duhallow Angling Centre of Excellence delivered a session on river biodiversity. Guide Leaders and Senior Branch delivered a STEM workshop, as well as a treasure hunt, an arts and crafts workshop and a sustainable consumerism talk. There was a camp challenge which took our visitors into the town to solve a puzzle; with thanks to all of the
local businesses who allowed us to put the clues in their windows. The challenge also required the girls to deliver unique performances at the campfire, create a 30 second marble run and come up with ideas to achieve the UN 12th SDG Goal. All of that effort earned them the Camp Infinity Badge and the Irish Aid sponsored UN SDG 12 Badge. Boherbue Unit were delighted to have the opportunity to showcase the resources that we have available to us on our doorstep but could not have hosted the camp without the provision of the facilities by IRD Duhallow and access to grants.
Prepping for campfire
Post BBQ at the Duhallow Community Food Center
Guides from Boherbue and Carrigtouhill at the river biodiversity talk Boherbue and Macroom Subcamps
Duhallow News
Emily Walsh, Tara Hartnett, Orlaith Ahern, Sile O’Connor, Hannah Walsh, Rachel Desmond, Molly O’Sullivan, Cara Courtney and Leah O’Riordan; Boherbue prep for ziplining
Emily Walsh zip lines!
Playing at height in Ballyhass
Youngest campers. Roisin O’Connor and Mia Walsh
Flag raising at the opening ceremony
Thomas Ankettell, John O’Keeffe, Ken Dwyer and Patrick O Connor
ABOVE: The badges earned.
LEFT: Sile O’Connor, Boherbue with Abbey, Sadhbh and Caoimhe O’Hallinane Kilcummin
LEADER in the community Spotlight on Kilbrin Community Hub
By STEPHANIE MOYNIHAN
Kilbrin is located in North Eastern Duhallow. The Kilbrin Village Hub was developed with the aid of LEADER funding to enable people to work remotely from their office without the conflict of home life. Printing facilities for the wider community at the hub compliment the services at this multifaceted hub assisting the desire for people to work remotely and further assisting students in the need of printing assignments for class work. The Hub offers tea and coffee facilities, a microwave, and fridge for the user’s convenience with parking and night lighting provided.
This need for a Community Hub of this kind arose during the COVID-19 pandemic, when local
residents were looking to work remotely without suitable conditions in their own homes while this also applied local Third Level students studying either fully remotely or participating in blended learning.
Kilbrin Village Hub serves as a safe and quiet space with a fast broadband connection facilitating productivity and innovation as a much needed local resource. It is hoped that the provision of the facility will attract people into the area to live and work and to grow to a larger scale over time. Further, this hub is a welcomed addition to the village basic service infrastructure.
#SICAPstories Healthy family habits using technology
By STEPHANIE MOYNIHAN
IRD Duhallow was delighted to host Professor John Sharry, a social worker and family psychotherapist with over 27 years’ experience as a child, adolescent mental health professional weekly parenting columnist for The Irish Times and a regular contributor to the national media, for a very important talk on Internet Safety. Technology and screens now dominate family life and this is especially the case since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. While technology provides important ways of communicating and learning, there are also many down sides. In this talk, Professor John Sharry presented practical
principles for establishing healthy family habits around using technology in the home. Practical advice on how to assess risk was given and how to enforce positive rules and further the importance of having the conversation on internet safety early on as children may be more receptive at a younger stage.
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.
Duhallow News
How To Find A Summer Job
By STEPHANIE MOYNIHAN
With the summer (and hopefully some better weather!!) on our doorstep, it is time to look at how to find a summer job. Whether you are a student looking to earn some money during the school break or otherwise, there a number of ways to go about finding a summer job. Check out local job notices Keep your eyes peeled when out and about as many local jobs advertise vacant positions in their shop windows. Likewise, you can find local job opportunities pinned to notice boards in libraries, community halls and other public places.
Newspapers
Don’t skip the employment section in your local newspaper and see if there are opportunities suitable for you. The Discover Duhallow
IN THE FRAME
magazine often publishes local vacancies.
Proactively seeking employment
You know where you would love to work but can’t see a job for this particular business? You may wish to consider to proactively apply. This means reaching out to the employer by phone, email or in person to advise that you would like to be considered for any vacancies that may arise in the future.
Job seekers websites
Keep up to date with job opportunities by checking out job search websites and don’t forget the IRD Duhallow vacancies section on our website to find local opportunities. www.irdduhallow.com/ employment-training/ird-duhallowjob-centre/vacancies/ 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 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.
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
"Story Time"
Taken by and sent to us by Eleanor Llerena, Johnsbridge, Kanturk.
"My daughter, Saoirse Llerena, reading to my neighbours cows who were in the field next to our garden." - Eleanor.
Life Is Like A Box Of Chocolates
By ALICE O’BRIEN Churchview Psychotherapy, Millstreet
Forrest Gump gave us some very wise advice when he told us “ life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re going to get”. He showed us that anything can happen as we navigate life’s twists and turns. Forrest was a carefree, happy kind of chap who made the most of what he got. Was he born like that? How much of our happiness is genetic? Have we a happiness gene or is it determined by our path in life?
Research shows that we are all born with a happiness gene, that we should all start off happy and stay happy for the rest of our lives- sounds great- so why is that not the case? Because genes only
tell us some of the story. There are other factors to consider before we can see the true picture.
• 50% of happiness is determined by our genetics. The genes we inherited can play a role in how fulfilled we feel, how we view things and how positive we feel in general. The genetics side of things are out of our control, we cannot influence what we inherit.
• 40% of our over-all happiness is set by our actions, how we deal with situations, what we do about life’s obstacles. In other words, our internal state of mind. We have a choice in how we view things- if we chose to have a glass that’s half empty or half full.
• 10% of our happiness is down to our circumstances. Factors like
age, income, race all play a part. So, can we choose how happy we are? To a certain degree we can but we are all individual- what makes one person happy can be misery to another. Life is not as simple as a set of percentages, we are all different. The key message is, search for your own happinessyou are not guaranteed it will make you completely happy but it’s worth a try right?
Decide on your non-negotiables
By SIOBHAN O’SULLIVAN SOS Fitness
The summer months can be a time when there is less routine. Kids are off school. The weather is better (hopefully!) This lack of routine can often lead to increased snacking, less exercise and poor sleep habits. In order to live a long and fulfilled life, we have to learn ways we can manage situations where we are out of routine. If you think about it, kids are on holidays for about 5 months a year. You will take a few weeks holidays. Christmas. Easter. There are so many opportunities for routine to be thrown out throughout the year.
How to manage this? Have a few non-negotiables each week and you can still maintain some structure to your diet and
exercise. Some nonnegotiables I follow during times of less routine:
1. Get 30 minutes of fresh air daily. This can be a walk. A cycle. Running around after the kids. This will allow you to get some activity in your day.
2. Plan your meals 80% of the time. This can be helped by ensuring you do a food shop a few times a week to have food in the house. Batch cook meals. If you’re out and about, take snacks with you so you’re not going for the convenient food which usually isn’t nutritious.
3. Keep alcohol to the weekends. Alcohol not only adds calories to your week, it can also lead to
increased appetite and poorer sleep
Your non negotiables may be different to this. Find what works for you. Learning to manage the unstructured times will lead to a healthier life in the long term. For more information on nutrition coaching, check out my website https://sosfitness.ie/nutrition/
Duhallow
Kevin Joins The Team!
The Strive group are on Work Placement in a variety of places at the moment, and Kevin O’Connor joined the Discover Duhallow team to get the inside scoop on how we put each issue together! Tadhg showed him the run of the various software programmes we use before the two went out to visit Kanturk Mart to prep for the two part centerspread feature. Here, he met auctioneer Tim O’Connell and sat in the auctioneers box. Tadhg and Kevin spoke to regular mart visitors, and even oversaw some of the cattle going on sale. Photos by Tadhg Curtin
Made In America Interests
At over 30 years young, Martin Scorsese’s iconic masterpiece Goodfellas (1990) still has all the visceral power of a well aimed smack in the nose.
I don’t know if you have been smacked in the nose but I have. You’re shocked, sore, disorientated, your eyes tear up and your adrenaline is pumping. It’s a dizzying, disorientating, and weirdly exhilarating feeling. That feeling is what watching Goodfellas for the first time is like.
Director Martin Scorsese teamed up with writer Nicholas Pileggi to adapt his 1985 book Wiseguy which was based on the life of Henry Hill, a Mafia associate turned government informant.
It’s very bitter-sweet that when I finally got to write about this monumental work, the film’s lead, Ray Liotta just recently passed away. It’s a career best for Liotta as Henry Hill but Robert De Niro, Lorraine Bracco, Paul Sorvino are absolutely incredible as well. Even Scorsese’s mother, Catherine Scorsese -who was not an actress - pops up in the famous late night dinner scene and is fantastic. But Joe Pesci steals the movie as diminutive but psychotic Tommy De Vito. He would be awarded the Oscar for Best Supporting actor for his legendary turn.
And if The Godfather is opera, Goodfellas is straight up rock’n’ roll, both literally and figuratively. Scorsese scores his movie with the choicest of tracks; everything from The Rolling Stones to The Crystals.
Undoubtedly, one of the most influential movies ever made, not just of the 90s but on a generation of filmmakers. David Chase cites it as a big one on his own masterpiece The Sopranos (which would feature many of the Goodfellas cast). It is the work of a master at the top of his game but he was left criminally Oscarless for his effort. Violent, brutal, exhilarating cinema. Check it out, ya stutterin’ $%*& !!! Available on DVD, Blu Ray and to rent on YouTube
The craft at work here is phenomenal. The camera work by frequent Scorsese cinematographer, Michael Bauhaus, is glorious. It’s in constant motion - whip pans, zooms, steadicam shots, all cut together by master editor and longtime Scorsese collaborator Thelma Schoonmaker. It’s a scuzzy, sleazy looking movieapparently Scorsese and Bauhaus wanted to a give it a working class look rather then give it a glamorous sheen. It’s scenes are often bathed in red which suggests so much; danger, blood, hell. It really is a ride with the Devil. It’s seductive and sexy at the beginning. We’re seduced into it’s immoral world and we’re loving it. But then comes the character of Spider. Poor Spider... Suddenly we see the danger of this world but it’s too late to leave now, sucker! We’re in it to the end, right through the anxiety inducing third act where it becomes a cocaine movie. Hill’s drug abuse and paranoia begins to inform the film making - fast cutting, jump cutting - the film becomes as jittery as its lead character. Goodfellas uses voiceover and is probably the greatest example of voiceover done right - adding to the story rather than lazily filling in cracks in the narrative. It’s as if Hill is right there with you, confessing his sins with both regret and longing for that life
The Rambling House
By PAT FLEMING
Boherbue’s Rambling House captures the quintessential experience of a night of Irish music. This old farmhouse sits in a quiet cul-de-sac and was a popular venue every Wednesday night for 20 years.
Nights were filled with song, dance, and story telling in front of a big open turf fire. Home baking and tea from the old kitchen were enjoyed by visitors from Ballydesmond to Clare. While many danced, others perused the farm museum and the farm animals housed in out buildings and adjacent grounds.
Many great musicians frequented the rambling house: Timmy O’Connor, Pat O’Connor, Dan Herlihy, Johnny O’Leary, Maurice O’Keeffe, Brendán Begley, Tim Kiely, Tom Carroll, Liam O’Connor, Steve Cooney, Michael Sexton Ceili Band,Matt Cunningham Ceili Band and Willie Keane Sean nós from west county Clare, just to mention a few.
Even as the ceilís died down from the night, most people sat around the open fire and shared stories and a singsong that often went on for many hours.
RTE recorded at the venue for the Ceili House programme by Kieran Hanrahan and Peter Browne. Shared here are photos taken at the event, including some local music legends; Dan Herlihy, Maurice O’Keeffe, Jimmy Doyle, Joe O’Sullivan, Tim Kiely, Timmy O‘Connor, John Drew, Denis Brooks, a young Pat Fleming, Emma O’Leary, Eilis Murphy, Geraldine O’Callaghan.
Sliabh Luachra Musician
Duhallow News
Medjugorje - 41 Years of Our Lady’s Apparitions
By TOM DENNEHY
On June 25th our group joined with pilgrims from all over the world celebrating 41 years of Our Lady’s Apparitions in Medjugorje. This year’s celebration attracted more than an estimated 40, 000 people from every continent and more than thirty countries. The local Croatian people, Polish and Ukraine made up the greater numbers.
On the eve of the anniversary, the 31st peace walk took place. A huge crowd walked from the Shrine of St. Anthony in Humac to Medjugorje with many pilgrims from Ukraine taking part. The parishioners prepared for the anniversary with a Novena and during these days they gathered on Apparition Hill at 4am praying the Joyful and Sorrowful mysteries of the rosary.
The chief celebrant for the anniversary mass was Fr Joso Grbes, Provincial of the Herzegovinian Franciscan Province. He was joined on the outside altar by 269 priests from all over the world.
In his homily, Fr Joso spoke about the love we all need today, emphasising that he “believes that this love has brought you here; the love of the Mother, who invites us constantly and the love of Christ who is the main goal of all”.
So much love is attached to the name of Medjugorje. This love is spread around the world. We are all familiar with that magnificent message from Our Lady- “If you knew how much I love you, you would cry with joy”.
Medjugorje is Mary and leads us to the God of love, Christ the Saviour.
Medjugorje, a little village in Bosnia Herzegovina, was unknown until June 1981 when Our Lady first appeared and this has not
alone changed the life of the visionaries but the entire world. It all began on June 24th 1981 feast day of St. John the Baptist when a beautiful young woman appeared, holding the baby Jesus in her arms. The following evening, Vicka, Mirjana, Ivanka, Marija, Ivan and the youngest, Jakov who was only ten years old were drawn towards her and she spoke to them. Our Lady introduced herself as the Queen of Peace. This place is now known as Apparition Hill. This was June 25th now marked as the Anniversary date.
Over the last 41 years, more than 50 million people have visited Medjugorje.
Many conversions continue to take place on a daily basis. Many vocations have resulted to the priesthood and religious life. There have been many miraculous healings both physical and spiritual.
“Dear Children, I have come to tell you that God does exist.” (June 25, 1981)
This was Our Lady’s first message and it was significant to the people of Medjugorje as they had suffered terrible persecution under a Communist regime, which told them that they were wasting their time practising their faith. In this small region, 68 Priests were massacred and many of the people were thrown into prison and denied jobs, but they persisted in their faith. Our Lady told them that she had chosen Medjugorje because there were so many true believers.
From the early days, our Lady gave signs to the world that she was really appearing. One of those signs was the letter “Mir”, a Croatian word which means “Peace” formed in the clouds for all to see.
The continuation of our Lady’s presence in Medjugorje in these difficult times is a great blessing from God and she continues to give us hope and asks for our prayer for her intentions. She has promised in the end that her “Immaculate Heart will triumph”. Pilgrims availed of the cool of the morning air to climb Cross Mountain, Apparition Hill, Blue Cross and again attended the evening programme of rosary, confessions, International Holy Mass followed by adoration with all night adoration on both 24th and 25th. Various groups sang with great joy around the statue of Our Lady.
In her message on June 25th, 2022, Our Lady thanks us for our prayers. She asks us to return to God and prayer. She says, “I am with you also in these days when Satan is fighting for war and hatred. Division is strong and evil is at work in man as never before”.
Protecting Swifts
By MIKE O’CONNOR Ecologist at IRD Duhallow
What are Swifts?
The Common Swift (Apus apus) is a loud, fast-flying bird that is usually found in urban areas. They are larger than Swallows but look somewhat similar in the air and are blackish brown in colour. They migrate to Ireland from Southern Africa every year for the months of May to August during which they breed with their mate (that they keep for life). The Swift spends the vast majority of its life in the air, where it feeds on airborne insects, and only lands when it is nesting to deliver a ‘bolus’ of insects to its chicks. Swifts are cavity nesters and have adapted to nest in urban settings, with eaves of rooves or holes in building walls providing an ideal nest site. Their selected nest site is important as they are sitefaithful, meaning they return each year to the same site. Swifts are colonial which they nest in groups.
Swift Declines
Unfortunately, Swifts are in trouble and recent data has shown that Swift numbers have declined by 40% since 2008. They are now on the red list of Birds of Conservation Concern.
Threats
While it is not yet fully clear why numbers have fallen so
dramatically, it is believed that loss of nest sites due to building refurbishments and demolitions or design of modern buildings has played a major role (you may notice that Swifts often nest in old buildings or ruins). Climate change may also play a large role by affecting migration and making hunting difficult during severe weather events. Finally, declines in insect populations may also be a significant contributing factor to declines of Swifts as this reduces food availability. How to help Swifts
There are several ways that we can help reverse the decline of Swifts. One of the first steps in helping these birds is to identify if they are nesting in your area and if so, to locate where they are nesting. If you have located a Swift site, record it on the National Biodiversity Data Centre’s citizen science platform.
If you, your community, or
your company are demolishing, renovating, or constructing a new building, ensure that you have first checked for Swifts. If a nesting site is present, ensure that all works take place outside of the breeding season and ensure that when Swifts return in May that they are not without a nest! This can be done by maintaining entrance gaps where possible, as the best nest for a Swift is its existing nest! Other options include the installation of a Swift brick that is integrated into the wall or a swift box that is attached to the wall, usually under the eave of the roof (the higher the better). Cats can be a deadly predator so ensure that cats do not have close access to the nest (e.g. the roof).
Encouraging insect populations will also help Swifts (among others), so remember that when you let your garden grow, you are helping far more than just the bees!
For more information including detailed advice on how to help Swifts, see BirdWatch Ireland’s Saving Swifts Guideline document which is free to download online.
A Swift in flight
A Swift brick
Enjoy a Quality Summer
