KILLARNEY ADVERTISER 20 JANUARY 2023

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Beaufort teen completes one hundred Carrauntoohil climbs!

She may be only 14-years-old but Orlaith Kelly from Beaufort has accomplished an amazing feat by climbing Carrauntoohil one hundred times.

| By Michelle Crean

On Monday, Orlaith once again scaled Ireland's tallest mountain - but this time it was extra special for her and her family as it was the teen's centenary climb. Orlaith has a special connection to the mountains as her parents Catherine and Piaras Kelly run KerryClimbing - and live right beside the MacGillicuddy Reeks. "She has always been into hiking and the outdoors," Catherine told the Killarney Advertiser.

"She climbed Torc when she was four and that would have been her first peak. She's been doing it since she was knee high to a grasshopper. We're lucky to have the MacGillicuddy Reeks so close."

Around the age of seven Orlaith began to get a little bit more ambitious after watching her parents regularly take groups on the Carrauntoohil climb. She

then began asking if she could accompany them.

However it wasn't until the age of nine, and after years of climbing, that her parents felt that she had enough experience to accomplish it safely with them as they are trained professionals who could help guide her.

On her 10th birthday she also climbed Coomloughra Horseshoe which is one of Ireland's classic ridge walks on the MacGillycuddy Reeks.

The youngster has also climbed the four highest peaks in Ireland - two in one day!

She's climbed Carrauntoohil which is 1,038.6 metres high and Mweelraa at 814 metres. However, one of other biggest challenges was heading to Belfast with her dad where the next day she not only climbed Slieve Donard which is 850 metres high - but travelled to Wicklow the same day and climbed Lugnaquilla which is 925 metres and then made the journey home to Beaufort.

"That's her sport, she's not into team sports," said Catherine.

"She has done all the peaks on Carrauntoohil in all different weathers. The main thing we're so proud of is the experience she's gained. She does talks on geology when out on corporate climbs and she has done her Mountain Skills 1 and 2 which are starting courses to become a mountain leader."

Orlaith, pictured with her dad Piaras Kelly and mom Catherine Kelly.

Man dies in construction accident in Muckross

A man has died in a workplace accident in Killarney.

It happened on Monday afternoon on the Irish Water construction site near Muckross when a truck driver was seriously injured during an unloading incident at the site.

Named as Carlow man Patrick O’Toole, the haulier from Shangarry in Myshall was airlifted to Cork University Hospital where he sadly passed away around 8pm that night.

The Health and Safety Authority (HSA)

have launched an investigation.

“I can confirm the HSA are aware of this incident and have launched an investigation,” a Health and Safety Authority spokesperson told the Killarney Advertiser.

Irish Water, now known as Uisce Éireann, also confirmed the news.

"It is with deep regret and sadness that Uisce Éireann confirms that a man working on behalf of our contractor who was attending a water infrastructure construction site in Co. Kerry has passed

away, following a workplace accident on Monday," the company said in a statement.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, work colleagues and friends of the deceased at this very difficult time. Uisce Éireann are liaising with the Health and Safety Authority and relevant authorities in relation to this incident. We can’t make any further comment at this time."

Mr O'Toole will be laid to rest on Saturday in Lismaconly Cemetery, Myshall.

ACHIEVEMENT: Orlaith Kelly (14) this week scaled Carrauntoohil for the one hundredth time.

SNOW FUN: Orlaith Kelly pictured with her dad Piaras on Carrauntoohil which she has climbed 100 times in the last five years.

WAY TO GO: Orlaith Kelly pictured on Carrauntoohil which she has climbed 100 times.

SADNESS: Patrick O'Toole from Carlow died in an accident in Killarney on Monday. Photo: RIP.ie

Kerry's oldest woman laid to rest

Kerry's oldest woman - who was aged 107 - sadly passed away in University Hospital Kerry on Monday.

She was the fourth oldest living person in Ireland.

Her funeral took place yesterday (Thursday) in St Mary's Cathedral followed by burial afterwards in Aghadoe Cemetery. During her 107 years she witnessed many changes and lived through two pandemics; the Spanish Flu and more recently COVID.

Hannah married Castlegregory man Gene Shea and they lived in Cricklewood London for many years raising their children JJ, Maureen, Michael and the late Eugene.

At her funeral Mass symbols of her life were brought to the alter including a family photo as she "held her family at the centre of her life" mourners were told. A statue was also brought up to show her faith and "devotion to St Anthony", while lastly a plant was the symbol of her love for her garden which was "always alive with colour".

Hannah will be sadly missed by her family, daughter-in-law Margaret, her grandchildren Daniel, Mark, Johannah, Eoin, Nancy, Eileen, Hannah and Roisín

RIP: Hannah O'Shea, the fourth oldest person in Ireland, passed away on Monday.

and their partners, her 10 great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, extended family, her many friends and the staff and residents at Killarney Nursing Home.

"Argentina have Messi but we have the Messiah"

| By Michelle Crean

Superstar footballer David Clifford has been compared to Argentina's Messi. At Monday's full Kerry County Council meeting councillors were full of praise for both the Fossa and Rathmore teams who won their respective finals a day earlier in Croke Park. Fossa became the All-Ireland Junior Football Champions when they beat Stewartstown Harps, while

Rathmore secured the AIB All-Ireland Intermediate Club Football title.

Cllr Mike Kennelly said "we are currently witnessing the greatest footballer ever" as he called for a full civic reception to honour David Clifford.

"I think he's the greatest inspiration to every Kerry person. We, as an authority, as a county need to acknowledge this. We need to acknowledge David's greatness and inspiration on his unrivalled success over the last 12 months. Argentina has Messi but we have the Messiah and we've got to protect him and honour that. Most people will agree with us that he is the greatest we have ever seen."

However, cautiously Cllr Cahill added that it's better to hold a civic reception for both teams rather than single out one player.

"I'm not too sure about singling out David. Maybe talk to the family on that.

Paudie got an All Star this year and last year and was Man of the Match at several games. I'm not saying we shouldn't do it but tease it out a little bit further."

The matter was referred to the CPG.

Shock as Argos Killarney to close

| By Michelle Crean

There was a major shock for Argos Killarney staff as the company announced yesterday (Thursday) that it is to shut up shop.

The news - that all of their Irish stores are to close - will not only result in multiple local job losses at the Deerpark Retail Park - but the economic impact will also be a major blow to Killarney town. The company are planning the closures by the end of June and say that the Northern Ireland stores and rest of UK are "not impacted" as Argos "continues to perform well" there.

"Everyone at Argos recognises that [the] news will be unsettling for all its colleagues, some of whom have served Argos customers in Ireland for many years, and disappointing for its loyal customers," a company statement read. "Argos is committed to doing everything it can to support its people and is talking to 580 colleagues, across 34 stores in the Republic of Ireland about their options. As part of its consultation with colleagues and Mandate, the recognised trade union, Argos will propose

an enhanced redundancy package that goes well beyond its statutory obligations. The small number of colleagues not eligible for redundancy under Irish law are expected to receive a one-off goodwill payment. To further support colleagues, Argos has also committed to a programme of wider support over the coming months.

“We understand this is difficult news for our customers and colleagues," Andy McClelland, Argos Ireland Operations Manager, said.

"As with any major change to our business, we have not made this decision lightly and we are doing everything we can to support those impacted.”

Argos stores will remain open to customers in the Republic of Ireland until June 24.

Argos will begin the process of gradually winding down its Irish business. As part of this, customers in Ireland will no longer be able to pay for orders via the Argos website or place orders via its home delivery service after March 22.

The aftersales, returns, refunds and exchanges policy will continue to apply until Argos stores close.

T OWN TALK

Call 064 6632215 or email: newsdesk@killarneyadvertiser.ie

Students' science study highly commended at BT exhibition

| By Michelle Crean

It was tough competition up against hundreds at the 59th BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition (BTYSTE) - but local students held their own when it came to their project.

The Killarney Community College Young Scientist team, made up of Liam Waldron, Rachel Griffin and Luke O'Sullivan, were awarded a coveted Highly Commended Rosette at this year’s awards held in Dublin last week.

Their project, 'Investigating Generalisations of Pythagoras' Theorem Using Iterated Function Systems and Hutchinson Attractors' was entered in the Chemical, Physical & Mathematical Sciences category.

The same group of students already received national honours this year when they won SciFest and will travel to Dallas in April to represent Ireland.

The team represented themselves ad-

mirably while speaking eloquently and knowledgeably on their project. They responded well to three days of questioning by fellow students, the general public and four rigorous rounds of judging!

They answered questions on a subject that most people would find difficult, but they explained it clearly and spoke about its everyday applications.

Their science teacher Ms Spillane, who accompanied them over the four days in Dublin said it was "a very intense four days for the students".

"They worked so hard to get here but represented themselves and the school so well. We are very proud of all their achievements this year."

The overall BT Young Scientist winners were Shane O’Connor and Liam Carew from Abbey School, Tipperary with their project 'Assessing the impact of second-level education on key aspects of adolescents’ life and development'.

Patrick says farewell after 35 years' dedicated service

For 35 years he has been filling plates with fine food in the International Hotel - but last week Patrick O'Sullivan hung up his ‘chef whites’ for a while.

| By Michelle Crean

One of 10 children in his family growing up Patrick, like many of his contemporaries, headed for the bright lights of London after school but soon realised that he couldn’t be away from his beloved Killarney, and his more beloved family and returned on the Slattery’s bus in the late 1980s.

Landing at the steps of the Friary, Patrick popped in to see his brother Stephen who was cheffing in the Brewery Grill at the International. A good man to turn his hand to anything, Patrick was recruited by then Head Chef Cyril Boggins, soon qualified as a chef and the rest, as they say, is history!

It was a real family affair at the hotel because Patrick has been such an integral member of the family at the International over the years, always having a laugh with his colleagues.

"Patrick has never said a cross word that anyone can remember, which is some

feat given the heat that is sometimes felt in the kitchen!" Tracy Coyne said.

A home away from home for Patrick, the family feeling in the International didn’t stop there – Pat’s mom Nora worked in the kitchen at the International in the 1990s, his afore-mentioned brother Stephen was a chef here, his brothers William and Larry worked as porter and barman respectively, while his sister Breda, and her daughter Orla both did their time in Hannigan’s Restaurant in the 2000s!

"The number of O’Sullivan family birthdays, christenings, anniversaries and other special occasions that have been held at the International are too numerous to count so we are fairly sure that we haven’t seen the last of Patrick and wish him well on his career break, from all the team and the Coyne family at the International Hotel, a huge thank you to Patrick for many years of great breakfasts always served with good humour and a good word."

Book your fundraising photoshoot

The Kerry Mountain Rescue Photoshoot Fundraiser is now open for bookings at the International Hotel.

It's scheduled for Sunday, January 29 to raise much needed funds in extending the KMR base camp at Killarney Garda Station.

The cost is just €40 per time slot.

It's not just family orientated, many local businesses have reserved a booking with local photographer Marie Carroll-O'Sullivan for staff images as well as requests for generation memories.

To reserve your 10 minute place, which includes two digital photos, you can email thelittlememorygallery@gmail. com to help support this worthy cause.

YOUNG SCIENTISTS: Minister for Education Norma Foley TD pictured with Killarney Community College students Rachel Griffin, Luke O'Sullivan, and Liam Waldron, who were highly commended at the BT Young Scientist Show.

FAREWELL: Chef at the International Hotel, Patrick O'Sullivan, said farewell after 35 years. Front row l-r were: Rebecca Frahere (Duty Manager), Chef Patrick O'Sullivan, Krzysztof Bogdanowicz (Head Chef) and Catriona White (General Manager).

Photo: Marie Carroll-O'Sullivan

Killarney man beats waiting lists with free soccer injury operation in Spain

A Killarney man has spoken about how he flew to Spain to get free treatment on a horror injury picked up in a hometown soccer derby game.

Dad-of-three Rory O’Sullivan (38), flew back to Kerry this week after undergoing surgery for the ACL injury at a hospital in the upmarket seaside city of Dénia. The facility used by patients travelling with Healthcare Abroad is dubbed ‘the Irish hospital’ by Spanish locals because so many Irish patients now get treatment there. Striker Rory was able to jump waiting lists at home under the European Union’s Cross-Border Directive, a decade-old scheme which allows patients from any EU country to avail of treatment in another EU country. The HSE here in Ireland reimburse the costs of the operation.

“The treatment I received in the HCB Hospital in Dénia was first class,” said Rory.

“It couldn’t have gone any better. I’d heard about the cross-border scheme from a friend and was advised to call Healthcare Abroad. They helped deal with all the forms and referrals from my GP and when I arrived in Alicante I was collected at the airport by an executive driver and taken to a lovely 4-star hotel for a couple of nights before surgery. “I had a consultation with my surgeon

who has performed so many similar operations before. I felt reassured straight away. The operation itself went very well. I didn’t feel a thing.”

Rory was injured 13 months ago while playing for Killarney Athletic against local rivals Killarney Celtic.

“It wasn’t even a tackle which caused the injury. I fell awkwardly when my foot went into a divot on the pitch. I could hear the ‘pop’ from it. Players on the Celtic team also heard it. I felt sick,” said the Killarney man.

“I was actually feeling really fit - fitter than I had ever been - so to pick up the injury was tough to take.”

Rory had a number of bookings with clinics in Ireland but work and family commitments and COVID led to various delays.

“The insurance I had only covered less than half of any surgery costs, so I began to look into it further and realised that the full cost of the operation I badly needed could be covered under the EU Cross Border Scheme,” said the data analyst.

“I just had to pay for my flights and the hotel, and the hotel was very cheap

because of the arrangement they have with Healthcare Abroad.”

Rory, a UEFA-badged coach, is urging anyone with similar injuries to get a flight to Spain for fast-track surgery. “It just makes sense,” he said. “Your only costs are the Ryanair flights and hotel, which was 4-star and included breakfast and a four-course evening meal for an extra tenner. The sun was shining when I was there in early January and that just lifts you too.

“Healthcare Abroad meet patients at the airport before you leave and then their team picks you up in Spain and takes you to the hotel too. It really is first class. I am happy to talk to anyone about my experience if anyone wants to hear first-hand how it all works.”

Healthcare Abroad Ireland works alongside the HSE to assist patients through the Cross Border Scheme, helps to complete the paperwork and liaise with Irish GPs. Any treatment offered by the HSE can be treated abroad under the EU legislation. Details of some of the operations available can be found on www. healthcareabroad.ie.

“We are delighted that Rory had a very successful operation and is now well on his way to a full recovery," a Healthcare Abroad spokesperson said. "We wish him every success too with his coaching in the time ahead.”

Tractor and car event to remember Ian O'Riordan

Tomorrow will be a special day of remembrance for Ian O'Riordan as his family are planning a tractor and car run for his 10th anniversary.

Ian, from Maughantourig, Gneeveguilla, passed away on January 14, 2013 - just weeks shy of his 17th birthday. His heartbroken family organise fundraisers on special dates. Previously they had a fundraiser for his 21st birthday with all proceeds going to South West Counselling.

Now, on his 10th anniversary, they plan to raise funds for Down Syndrome Kerry (DSI).

"My nephew Ronán was born two years ago with Down Syndrome and my niece

Emma (15) in America, so this is why we picked this charity," Ian's mom Eileen O'Sullivan told the Killarney Advertiser. Eileen's youngest son Liam has a huge interest in tractors and cars and asked if they could raise funds that way.

Now locals are gearing up for a great day. It begins with registration, which is €20, at the Rathmore GAA grounds at 9.30am and starts at 12.30pm. Later in the day there'll be plenty of entertainment from 'Up in Smoke' at the Bridge Bar from 4 to 6pm.

There are many spot prizes up for grabs including an iPhone, a Galaxy smartphone, a signed Connacht jersey, a signed East Kerry jersey and a signed Kerry jersey, as well as hotel and beauty vouchers from businesses in Killarney, Rathmore and Gneeveguilla.

| By Michelle Crean

MEMORIAL EVENT: The family of Ian O'Riordan are organising a tractor and car run tomorrow (Saturday) in his memory. From l-r were: Liam O'Riordan, Melissa O'Riordan and Cayla O'Sullivan with a photo of Ian on the wall behind them.

Rory O’Sullivan pictured the day after his operation at the Marina in Denia.

International Hotel is a 'Great Place to Work'

A special visitor brought smiles to the faces of hotel staff last week when he declared that it was voted a 'Great Place to Work'.

Celebrations could be heard all over as the International Hotel were visited by Jim Flynn of Great Place to Work who handed them their well-earned accreditation as voted by the entire staff.

Leading the team, Catriona White remarked that this is such a proud day because the people have always been the heart of the International and it is their sense of belonging that has made this

very special accolade possible. The measures of Trust, Respect and Fairness are tenets of the evaluation process, but it is the Pride and Camaraderie within the team that really won out according the Catriona, Manager of the International Hotel, who has been making it all about the people, guests and staff, for 25 years!

"One of my proudest moments was

getting this call," she explained, laughing that being named TripAdvisor’s Number 6 Hotel in Ireland fades in comparison to being voted into the top spot by her own team!

"There will be bubbles tonight in Kenmare Place," Human Resource Manager, Ann Mangan, whose role at the hotel is often that of ‘mom’ to the gang, said. She added that she couldn’t be happier for the team at the hotel who are "the greatest team ever"!

St Patrick’s Festival Killarney

Fáilte Ireland has approved an offer of assistance of €25,000 to Kerry County Council for the development of St Patrick’s Festival Killarney.

Bus shelter on Mission Road

Killarney Municipal District is to apply for funding to build a bus shelter on Mission Road. The Dublin Airport connection bus, known as the ‘Green Bus’, stops at an unsheltered location towards the rear of the Plaza Hotel. Cllr Marie Moloney has been pushing for a shelter for some time and called on the local authority to give an update. A Council official said: “The office is currently examining the options available for this site and as well as identifying an appropriate funding streams”.

Arts Act Grants and Artists Bursaries 2023

Applications for the Arts Act Grant and Artists Bursaries are now being accepted. The closing date is January 26 and local arts groups are encouraged to apply. Forms are available on Kerry County Council’s website.

In 2022, one of the 23 successful applications for the Art Act Grant was from Killarney MD, and the group received a grant totalling €700 from a fund of €35,000.

Killarney Public Realm Project

Dog park idea still on the agenda

| By Sean Moriarty

A Killarney

Cllr John O’Donoghue proposed the idea at a recent Killarney Municipal District meeting.

He said: “There are a growing number of businesses around town now, from cafes to bars, which now advertise themselves as being dog friendly indicating the increasing demand for such places, and I feel it is time the Council stepped up to the mark in this regard. The beauty of dog parks is they do not require colossal infrastructure, really it is an enclosed space where dogs are free to socialise with other dogs and get their exercise”. The Council said it had no such plans.

A spokesperson said: “While this is a

meritorious

Council currently has no plans to provide such dog parks. The identification of appropriate locations, the funding of same along with the ongoing management and maintenance requirements are a number of the factors that have fed into this".

However, the Council said it would look at other external

The preliminary business case for the Killarney Public Realm project has been approved by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage. The Council are now proceeding to the design and planning approval stage. It is currently anticipated that planning documentation will be completed by end of Q2 2023.

Áras Phádraig Site

ing the idea

of the local Environmental Strategic Policy Committee (SPC).

Cllr O’Donoghue sits on the SPC. “I will pursue the matter further there,” he added.

Reddy Architecture + Urbanism have been appointed to develop a theatre, public plaza, underground car park and a serviced site for a Primary Care Centre on the Áras Phádraig site. The Council are now proceeding to the design and planning approval stage. It is currently anticipated that planning documentation will be completed by end of Q2 2023.

councillor has not given up the prospect of a dedicated dog park in town.

proposal, Kerry County

factors including plac-

in front

Dara McCarthy and Mark Kerins pictured here leading the Food & Beverage Team, together with Annemarie Collins and Siobhan Ahearn Byrne running the Room Division with the phenomenal support of the 125 strong staff. Front row l-r were: Mark Kerins (Managing Director), Tracy Coyne, Jim Flynn (Great Place to Work), Catriona White (General Manager), Ann Mangan and Dara McCarthy. Photo: Marie Carroll-O’Sullivan

Are you ready to unleash the magic of music? Join family favourites Ceol Connected in the treetops where a toe-tapping, tale-telling, hip-shaking hooley awaits!

With mesmerising music and songs by some of Ireland’s finest musicians and singers, you can look forward to a wonderfully interactive show that will have audiences of all ages hooked.

Suitable for children ages 3+ and their adults. 50 minutes duration.

SAT 25TH FEB 2023 SUN 26TH FEB 2023

The Speks present a lively show of nursery rhymes and sing-along songs set to acoustic Irish music which will have adults and kids jumping in their seats! Their hand-clapping, toe-tapping, hearty-laughing show is all about life on Glasses Island – a magical island off the coast of Co. Clare where everybody wears glasses!

The Speks have won a Parents’ Choice music award in the US where their music has been described as “Riverdance for kids” and they

This will be a great, fun event for kids aged 2 to 92!

Search is on for Killarney Community Rose

The team at the Festival have unveiled their new plan to host Community Rose selections in towns and villages across Ireland this year with 'Rose of Tralee Communities' - in search of a Community Rose to represent your locality and who will go forward to compete at the county rose selection.

Towns and villages across the country will host their own selection nights to pick a local Rose - and Rose Escort - to go forward to their respective counties' selection events, in this case - the Kerry Rose Selection!

The winner will hold the title of Killarney Community Rose for one year, representing their community and go forward to the County Rose selection later in the year.

Killarney has the honour of hosting the very first Community Rose event in the Kingdom - which will take place on Saturday, January 28 at the Heights Hotel in Killarney.

The person chosen will go forward to the County Selection event and potentially represent their county at the International Festival from the August 19 to 23.

Community Rose entrants must be female or identify as female, available for Rose Selection events and be 18 years of age by January 1, 2023 and not have reached their 30th birthday on or prior to September 1, 2023. Applicants must be born in Ireland, be an Irish citizen or be of Irish origin by virtue of one of your ancestors having been born in Ireland. They must also not have previously represented any Rose Centre at the Festival.

Eligible young men between the ages of 21 and 31 are also asked to get involved with the voted winner going forward as a Rose Escort to the Kerry Rose Selection and guaranteed an interview for Rose Escort Bootcamp.

“We want to put community at the heart of the Rose Festival. Our Festival connects the global Irish diaspora, and this is a fantastic opportunity to extend that reach to include communities across Ireland in that celebration,” Festival CEO, Anthony O'Gara, said. Those wishing to apply to become a Community Rose or Rose Escort may do so on www.roseoftraleecommunities.com.

Hoteliers renew call to retain 9% VAT

Kerry hotels and guesthouses have this week renewed their call on the Government to retain the 9% tourism VAT rate.

This is in response to very challenging economic headwinds facing the sector over the next 12 months.

New industry research carried out by the Irish Hotels Federation (IHF) indicates that the sector is now at a crucial juncture as it grapples with economic slowdowns in key overseas markets, escalating business costs and the impact of inflation on discretionary consumer expenditure.

Despite an uplift in tourism during the second half of 2022, hotel room occupancy remained significantly lower than pre-pandemic levels. Results for the year as a whole reveal that average room occupancy levels were 70% nationally and 67% for the South West.

Looking at the year ahead, overseas tourism markets continue to pose a significant challenge for Irish tourism, with many hotels and guesthouses reporting reduced levels of forward bookings compared to the same time in 2019:

· 57% report reduced bookings from Great Britain versus 2019 (12% report an increase, 31% no change)

· 48% report reduced bookings from Northern Ireland (9% report an increase, 43% no change)

· 37% report reduced bookings from the rest of Europe (17% report an increase, 46% no change)

· 41% report reduced bookings from the US (32% report an increase, 27% no change)

Of particular concern is the bleak economic outlook for the UK with inflation having reached a four-decade high and the country facing the risk of a prolonged recession.

Another pressing challenge for the hotels sector is excessive energy costs, with 85% of hotels and guesthouses very con-

cerned about the impact this is already having on their business. Many hotels have experienced increases of upwards of 300% in energy bills compared with 2019 levels.

“With many of our key tourism markets experiencing a cost-of-living-crisis, the last thing the Government should be contemplating is an increase in consumer taxes such as tourism VAT," Bernadette Randles, IHF Kerry Branch, said.

"Consumers in Ireland and across our overseas markets are already being squeezed by exceptionally high levels of inflation and other pressures on their finances, which means there is a very real risk that many will pull back from spending on discretionary items such as holidays and breaks away. It is therefore very worrying that Government is considering an increase at this time given the impact it would have on inflation and the damage it would cause to our tourism competitiveness – resulting in Irish consumers and overseas visitors having to pay the third highest tourism VAT rate in all of Europe. The focus of the Government should instead be on safeguarding tourism livelihoods and securing the long-term sustainable recovery of our industry.”

Calls to replace missing tree

| By Sean Moriarty

They may be just another group of trees to most people passing the courthouse - but they represent a very important part in Irish history.

The group of olive trees in Killarney's courthouse garden should represent the seven martyrs - Thomas J. Clarke, Seán Mac Diarmada, Thomas MacDonagh, Patrick Pearse, Éamonn Ceannt, James Connolly and Joseph Plunkett – who signed the Proclamation of Independence during the 1916 Easter Rising.

However, there are only six such trees present, an anomaly noticed by Cllr Marie Moloney who called on Killarney Municipal District to plant a seventh tree to correct the issue.

The courthouse garden is also home to a monument commemorating the historic declaration.

“There were seven trees to represent the seven and there has been one missing for many years,” she told a recent Killarney Municipal District meeting. A Council official replied that a tree has been ordered and would be planted upon delivery.

COMMUNITY ROSE: The Rose of Tralee International Festival is in search of its first ever Killarney Community Rose.

The Rose of Tralee International Festival is coming to town in search of its first ever Killarney Community Rose!

VAT RATE: Bernadette Randles of the Irish Hotels Federation Kerry Branch, is once again calling on the Government to retain the 9% VAT rate. Photo: Marie Carroll-O’Sullivan

February 19th 2023. Bookings can be made from 1.30 pm to 3pm, subject to availability.

Finance Minister is special guest at Chamber lunch

Finance

Held in the Killarney Plaza Hotel, Chamber President Niall Kelleher thanked him for his attendance and spoke about planning Killarney's future.

It was Mr Kelleher's last public engagement as Chamber President before he hands over the chains of office at the Annual General Meeting in a few weeks' time.

"It has been my honour to spearhead the Chamber since January 2021," Mr Kelleher said.

"Taking over such an important role during a global pandemic was never going to be easy – and, trust me, it wasn’t. I take this opportunity too to acknowledge Minister McGrath and the Government for the necessary financial supports put in place during COVID which ensured that doors could stay open as much as possible and, when they had to close,

overheads could be met and jobs could be safeguarded with Government supports. I know too that Minister McGrath is very conscious of the impact that inflation and, in particular, energy costs is currently creating for businesses, as we face more challenging economic circumstances and I have every confidence that measures will be taken to ensure commercial and industrial enterprises are supported. Minister McGrath will be only too well aware of our campaign here in Killarney to ensure the 9% VAT rate is maintained well beyond February 23 given that the tourism and hospitality sector was one of those most impacted by the public health restrictions in place throughout the pandemic. The reality is that hospitality needs that support, it needs that small break if it is to regain lost ground and if the 13.5% rate is reintroduced, it will create a major disadvantage

Benches for Muckross Road

| By Sean Moriarty

Seating benches are to be installed along a popular walkway on Muckross Road.

The idea was put forward by Cllr John O’Donoghue at a recent Killarney Municipal District meeting.

The benches will be installed intermit-

tently from Flesk Bridge to the entrance of Muckross House.

“We are very lucky to have the facility to be able to walk from our town all the way out into the National Park towards Muckross House, and I commend the engineers and Council staff for their work maintaining the Jarvey Path, but a bench or two along the way would allow those who require it, a chance to

as consumers and overseas visitors will be paying the third highest tourism VAT rate in Europe if visiting here."

Mr Kelleher also spoke about the recent Irish Business Against Litter League (IBAL) rating saying that coming in 28th place "was a major wake-up call for Killarney".

"Getting a C grade for the condition of the main car park in the middle of the town is bad for business and it’s up to the business community to help to rectify that particular problem."

He added "Another recent concern has been the town’s struggle to cope with the volume of refugees and asylum seekers and the knock-on impact it has caused for the providers of wrap-around services such as medical care, meeting educational needs and the offer of community supports by under-pressure organisations like the Killarney Asylum Seekers Initiative".

"Chamber has made representations to Government for a practical plan to be implemented."

stop and rest their body and mind,” Cllr O’Donoghue told the meeting.

“I am not requesting anything fancy; simple seating, maybe a bench or two in keeping with their surrounds would be perfectly adequate.”

The Council have agreed to install seating intermittently along this path as part of their proposed upgrade of the jarvey path/cycle path. However, it will need to liaise with the National Parks and Wildlife Service with regard to the section that falls under their remit.

At the Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce’s inaugural president’s lunch, from left: Les Brzozka (Aghadoe Heights Hotel), Catriona White (International Hotel), Margaret O'Connor (AIB) and Joe Shannon (Senior Manager AIB). Photo: Valerie O'Sullivan

And the "main goal" going forward is to ensure that Chamber is "a properly resourced and structured professional body representing a strong voice for the business community". There's plans in place for a new senior executive to "oversee the day-to-day operations of Chamber" which he added "will be a real game-changer".

He concluded that "going forward" Chamber "will also be forming a number of sub-committees to oversee essential areas such as: membership and management, brand communication and reputational management, advocacy, and events.

Minster, Michael McGrath was a special guest at the inaugural Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce President’s Lunch on Friday last.

GIFT: President of Killarney Chamber Niall Kelleher presented Finance Minister Michael McGrath, TD, with a handcrafted Arbutus Pen at the President’s Lunch at the Killarney Plaza Hotel on Friday. Photo: Valerie O'Sullivan

PLEASED TO MEET YOU: Sean Kelly (MEP), President Tralee Chamber Alliance Nathan McDonnell, President Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce Niall Kelleher, and Conor Hennigan (Vice President, Killarney Chamber) pictured at the President’s Lunch, in association with AIB, on Friday. Photo: Valerie O'Sullivan

Panto going strong six decades later!

For six decades they've kept the public laughing and now they're ready to do it all again!

| By Michelle Crean

Killorglin Panto Group's 60th production is 'The Old Woman Who Lived in a Shoe' and will be staged from this Saturday (January 21).

Will you be going? Oh yes you will!

When the local CYMS organised a fundraising pantomime 'Snow White and the Seven Cromane Men' in 1958, little did they realise that this tradition would still be alive and well in Killorglin 60 years later.

"This is the longest running panto in Munster and a show not to be missed," Geraldine O’Sullivan, Killorglin Panto PRO, said.

"The cast have been rehearsing since

October and no stone has been left unturned to bring their magical show to the stage."

Producer and Dame, Declan Mangan says he is privileged to have been involved in all 60 productions.

Being the 60th show, the cast and crew are hoping for big attendance. They have made it easier this year to book your tickets with three options; online by clicking on the following link universe.com/users/ killorglin-panto-TKH1C7; face to face by calling in to the booking office located at the KCYMS Hall or by telephone on 066 9790961."

Follow the cast on Facebook and Instagram as they put the final preparations to their big show.

CELEBRATION:

riety

erry@gmail.com for more information.

An end of year celebration was held at Fossa Community Centre by the Africa Community in Kerry on their first anniversary on December 30. A va-

of African dishes/foods were on offer for all as families mixed and mingled, and enjoyed music and dance. It was such fun that they’re now planning to make it an annual event. The next similar gathering will be in May to mark the Africa Day commemorations. In his key note address the chairperson appealed to other fellow Africans or interested members to join the group which is open to all persons connected with Africa. Please contact the General Secretary on africancommunityink-

STAGE: Members of the Killorglin Panto Group are ready to take to the stage this weekend for their 60th production.

Dame Declan Mangan (Producer), Lord Mayor of Kerry, John Francis Flynn and Anne Mangan (Costumiere) pictured at the launch of the 60th Killorglin Panto.

James, Conor and Ava Baker with their snowman which they called ‘Smartie the Snowman’!

Warming back up are children from ScallyWags Preschool.

Baby Danny McSweeney from Killarney experiencing his first ever snowfall this week.

Ali Kate Cronin from Tournanough in Gneeveguilla, having fun in the snow.

Maggie Kelliher enjoying the snow in Tiernaboul, Killarney on Tuesday.

Jaxson and Ellie O’Sullivan pictured having plenty of fun playing in the snow in Rathmore.

ScallyWags Preschool children gather around a small fire to get warm after having fun in the snow.

ScallyWags Preschool children having fun in the snow on Tuesday.

Photo: Magdalena Zglinska Pictures

Photo: Magdalena Zglinska Pictures

Photo: Magdalena Zglinska Pictures

Baby Keeva is special guest at her parent's wedding

It was third time lucky for childhood sweethearts Gillian Morgan and Damien Cahalan - but the delay meant that they had a very special guest for their wedding!

Their little baby daughter Keeva arrived last August and as their wedding was delayed over COVID it meant she arrived before they had the chance to tie the knot.

The couple were married by Damien’s uncle from New Orleans, Monsignor Harry Bugler, on December 30 in St Mary’s Cathedral Killarney.

Gillian is daughter of Paddy Morgan and Teresa Morgan (deceased) while Damien is son of Pat Cahalan and Eileen Cahalan. Maid of Honour on the day was the bride's sister Dani Morgan and Bridesmaids were her friends Áine Hogan and Elaine McLoughney.

Best Man was Damien's friend Stephen Oakley and Groomsmen were his brothers Stephen and Ger Cahalan.

"This was our third attempt to be married since 2020 after two COVID postponements," Gillian told the Killarney Advertiser.

"It was certainly worth the wait, and the added bonus was that we had our beau-

tiful baby girl Keeva there to celebrate with us."

On the day they had a special remembrance for Gillian's mother who sadly passed away suddenly on June 26, 2020. "We know she would have been so proud to see us finally tie the knot, as Damien and I have been together 16 years now."

The reception was held in The Brehon Hotel and included friends and family from as far as Sydney Australia, Vancouver Canada, Denver, New York, New Orleans, Boston, Dubai, Austria, Belgium, The Netherlands and Borrisokane, Co. Tipperary.

"We were so glad that they all made the trip and there was a real sense of occasion and undeniable craic in the air that lasted a couple of days as the celebrations transitioned into New Year's Eve for day two.

"Our suppliers were just excellent, especially The Brehon, who we’ve been collaborating with to plan this big day now since we booked back in September 2019."

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO FEATURE IN OUR WEDDING OF THE WEEK

Contact Michelle on 064 66 32215 or email: editor@killarneyadvertiser.ie

Photos: Lovestory, Breda Daly

Online mission for Diocese of Kerry

The Diocese of Kerry has issued an open invitation to join their online mission which takes place from this weekend.

Starting on Sunday and continuing until Wednesday (January 22 to 25), the mission 'Growing in Love' offers an opportunity for people to gather in reflection and prayer, online and in their home.

Like the traditional Parish Mission, all are welcome to participate, inclusive of all age groups and those involved with church or those who have disengaged with church.

This is the third year of online mission which aims to lift spirits.

"Our aim is to nurture the diocesan faith community in this present reality," a spokesperson for the Diocese of Kerry said.

"We wish to encourage people to live with hope and solidarity as a community as we move through this New Year."

To join in the mission online register at www.dioceseofkerry.ie.

ONLINE MISSION: Fr Hugh Lagan, a priest with the Society of African Missions, is also a chartered Clinical Psychologist.

Gift Grub coming to INEC

Ireland’s most successful impressionist and satirist Mario Rosenstock celebrates Gift Grub with a brand spanking new stage show.

Mario will bring Gift Grub Live on tour to venues all over Ireland in 2023 including Killarney's INEC on March 17.

"It’s been three years since I last put a show on sale so needless to say myself and Ian are bursting with ideas! A

brand-new show is coming. All new sketches and also new stuff with all my favourite Gift Grub alter egos! Flatley, Michael D, Paschal, Miriam, Leo, Roy, Marty, Davy Fitz, Rog, Johnny Sexton ...and I’m only scratching the surface. I can’t wait!" Mario said.

Tickets are on sale now from www. ticketmaster.ie and venue box offices nationwide.

FUNNY MAN: Impressionist Mario Rosenstock will be bringing his Gift Grub Live show to the INEC in March.

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

Sick leave and sick pay

This is the time of year when a lot of people are getting colds and flus and may have to take time off work. Today we are going to look at what support is available if you find yourself in a situation where you have to take time off work due to illness.

Q. What rights to sick pay do employees have?

A: Until this year, 2023, you had no legal right to be paid while you were on sick leave from work, no matter how long you had worked for your employer. However, this has changed.

Since 1 January 2023, you have a right to 3 days’ sick pay a year. This is called statutory sick pay (that means the legal minimum). Sick pay is paid by your employer at 70% of your normal pay up to a maximum of €110 a day.

The entitlement to paid sick leave is being phased in over 4 years:

• 2023 - 3 days covered

• 2024 - 5 days covered

• 2025 - 7 days covered

• 2026 - 10 days covered

Sick days can be taken as consecutive days or non-consecutive days. The sick pay year is the calendar year, so it runs from 1 January to 31 December.

Q. Is every person who is in employment entitled to sick pay?

A: To qualify for statutory sick pay you must be an employee and have worked for your employer for at least 13 continuous weeks before you are sick – that’s about 3 months. You must also be certified by a GP as unable to work.

Q. Does this mean that the employee needs a medical cert to get sick pay?

A: Yes - under the sick leave legislation, you must be certified by a GP as unable to work to qualify for statutory sick pay. You should be certified from day 1 of your sick leave.

You have a right to SSP from the first day you are off sick. Your employer cannot apply ‘waiting days’ before you get sick pay.

Q. How is the sick pay calculated?

A: Your statutory sick leave payment must be paid at your normal daily rate. You are entitled to 70% of your normal gross pay, up to a maximum €110 a day.

Q. Some employers may already have a sick pay scheme – how does this new scheme impact on those situations?

A: Yes, some employers already pay sick leave and may already offer their employees more generous sick pay arrangements than the new statutory scheme. These would normally be outlined within your contract of employment. However, the important point to note is that any company’s sick leave scheme can’t be less than the statutory amount.

Q. What are my options if I experience problems getting sick pay?

A: If you do not get statutory sick pay, contact your employer to try to resolve the issue informally first.

If you cannot resolve the issue directly with your employer, you can make a formal complaint to the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC). Contact your local Citizens Information Centre for information on how to make a complaint to the WRC. You must make your complaint within 6 months of the dispute. The time limit can be extended for a further 6 months if there is reasonable cause for the delay.

Q. This new statutory sick pay scheme provides sick pay for a limited number of days e.g. 3 days in 2023. What happens if I am off sick for more than 3 days?

A: If you are off work sick for more than 3 days, and you have enough PRSI contributions, you can apply to the Department of Social Protection (DSP) for a payment called Illness Benefit.

If you do not have enough PRSI contributions, you should contact the DSP’s representative at your local health centre. They will assess your situation and you may have entitlement to Supplementary Welfare Allowance which is means-tested.

Anyone needing information or advice can call a member of the local Citizens Information team in Kerry on 0818 07 7860, they will be happy to assist and make an appointment if necessary. The offices are staffed from Monday to Friday from 10am to 4pm. Alternatively you can email on tralee@citinfo.ie or log on to www.citizensinformation.ie for further information.

away Home

INSPIRED BY DANNY CASEY

GoFundMe set up for terminally ill Kerry mother

A GoFundMe page has been set up for a Kerry mother of three who has been diagnosed with terminal cancer.

Lisa Broderick (47) lives in The Cloisters, Abbeydorney with two of her three children; Holly (13) and Paddy (11) who are dependent on her in every way. Her older daughter Siun (23) is currently working and living in Dublin.

Lisa, originally from Lisanearla, previously underwent treatment for breast cancer in 2019 and was relieved when she got the all-clear in 2020.

However, in June last year Lisa was devastated to learn her cancer had not only returned but is terminal and she’s been given just five years to live.

She had been suffering from shoulder and rib pain for months but put it down

to driving for her job at the time.

Following a visit to the GP, she went for an MRI and then a CT scan which revealed that she had two tumours in her liver.

“I was completely and utterly devastated,” Lisa said.

“I went back to work quite soon after getting the all clear. There was a lot of driving involved and I’d take painkillers for the pain. Never once did I think something like this.”

Speaking about the future and her children she said that “the reality is I won’t see them in their 20s”.

“It’s very tough on everyone. We’re a very close unit here, it’s heart-breaking for them.”

Lisa has had no choice but to leave her full-time job due to her many appointments and coping with the side effects that come with the treatment to prolong

her life.

Her goal is to raise enough funds to be able to afford days out with her children in the time she has left with them, and leave lasting memories for them to cherish.

She has dedicated her life to her children. They are her entire world.

The GoFundMe is to help ease the financial burden for Lisa and her family and help add some security for the children’s future. She wants “to ease the financial stress” on them for when she’s no longer here with them.

“They’re my absolute world, it’s all about them.”

All donations, no matter how small, will be greatly appreciated.

See https://www.gofundme.com/f/ lisa-broderick for more.

Alligator found in car park

You couldn't make it up - an alligator found in a car park in America this week.

Animal rescuers are investigating the origins of the unusual non-native animal picked up in Monmouth County in New Jersey on Saturday night. It's believed that the animal was an illegal pet who was abandoned by its owner.

In a Facebook post The Monmouth County SPCA said that a member of the public called the organisation to report an alligator in a plastic container in the empty car park next to his home.

"The young alligator was brought back to the shelter and given a clean tank that allowed proper air circulation and is being kept in a climate-controlled area," the post said.

Ross Licitra, Executive Director of the MCSPCA, added, “It is illegal for New Jersey residents to keep alligators or caimans, which are considered potentially dangerous exotic species. Not only is it a danger to the public, but these animals, when kept in captivity, need very specific care that only professionals can provide.”

In an updated post they said that they're "Happy to report that this little cold-blooded cutie was picked up and will be heading over to Cape May Zoo".

New communities learning Irish

Groups from Ireland’s new communities were in Dublin on Saturday for Conradh na Gaeilge’s Céad Míle Fáilte event, which brings people together from various backgrounds to celebrate the Irish language.

Guests from various groups and language backgrounds, including Igbo, Ukrainian

and Arabic, took part in the event and in Irish classes organised over the last number of months.

The initiative comes as an increasing number of people coming to Ireland are showing an interest in Ireland’s language and culture. The Céad Míle Fáilte campaign aims to entice people from differ-

ent backgrounds to the Irish language. As part of the project, a series of Irish classes has been organised, scholarships to attend Gaeltacht courses have been granted, a series of workshops has taken place looking at the correct terminology in Irish to use with our new communities, and a booklet to raise people's awareness

of the Irish language has been produced in various languages.

"I was delighted to be part of this very important project," Paula Melvin, President of Conradh na Gaeilge, said.

"Modern Ireland boasts a very diverse, multicultural, multilingual society, and the Irish language is a valuable cultural asset that we can share with everyone. The Irish language has an important role in helping our new communities integrate into Irish society."

FUNDRAISER: Lisa Broderick, pictured with her daughter Holly and son Paddy, has been diagnosed with terminal cancer.

Photo: Michelle Crean

Details of Castleisland Forestry Rally announced

Killarney and District Motor Club has announced details of its forthcoming Castleisland Forestry Rally.

For the second year in a row, the event will raise funds for Irish Community Air Ambulance and will run on February 19.

The rally, based in the Riverisland Hotel, will be sponsored by two local business-

people, Cyril Wharton of Cyril Wharton Tool Hire and Niall Murphy of Castleisland Tyre Centre.

Clerk of the Course for this year’s event is Adrian Cronin who was ratified at the club’s recent Annual General Meeting.

Adrian has been involved with Killarney and District Motor Club since 2007 and was a key member of the two teams that

ran the Rally of the Lakes, and the Killarney Historic Rally last year.

The 2023 event kicks off with a ceremonial start on Castleisland’s main street on Saturday evening.

On Sunday morning the crews will depart the centralised service park at Castleisland Mart at approximately 8.45am. They will tackle six stages in the Mul-

lagherick Mountain, Fornane and Mount Eagle areas.

After the sixth and final stage, the crews will arrive at the finish ramp at around 4.30pm in Castleisland,” explained Adrian Cronin.

“Entries will be open for the event in the next few days and there has been a huge amount of interest already.”

Italy’s biggest fugitive is arrested after three decades

Police hunting Italy's most-wanted Mafia boss for three decades were elated on Monday to finally nab him.

After 30 years on the run Messina Denaro was caught in Sicily when police approached him and asked his name at a cafe near a cancer clinic where he is being treated.

He didn't lie when answering saying; "You know who I am, I am Matteo Messina Denaro".

Denaro was sentenced in absentia to a life term for his part in the 1992 murders of anti-mafia prosecutors.

He also faces a second life sentence for his part in bomb attacks which killed 10

people in Florence, Rome and Milan and subsequently went into hiding as a result.

It's also believed that the Mafia boss was the mastermind of some of the nation’s most heinous killings.

For years police have tried to capture him but to no avail.

Now aged 60 he's undergoing treatment for cancer, which is what led police to him, Carabinieri Gen. Pasquale Angelosanto, who heads the police force’s special operations squad, explained.

Denaro’s treatment can continue at a hospital prison ward, authorities said.

When caught he was unarmed although wearing an expensive watch worth €33,000

Take on the 100 Miles in a Month challenge in February

The Mater Foundation is asking people across Kerry to challenge themselves by walking, jogging, or running 100 miles this February to raise vital funds for cardiac care.

The Foundation is asking for you to support the hospital’s medical staff in their mission to safeguard patients’ hearts by helping to fund life-changing and life-saving equipment and technologies to enhance cardiac care.

When you register, you will receive your own 100 Miles in a Month t-shirt and miles chart to help you track your progress over the course of February. Participants will be supported every step of the way by the Foundation team and will have the opportunity to join a special 100 Miles in a Month in February Facebook group, where you can connect with people across Ireland who have joined the challenge.

Your fundraising will allow the Mater Foundation to enhance the vital service the Mater Hospital provides to patients presenting with various heart conditions who need critical care and immediate cardiac procedures.

Having up-to-date equipment and supporting technology allows doctors and nurses to discuss critical care pathways and act in a timely manner to save lives. Chris Gifford, who is currently a patient

receiving cardiac care in the Mater Foundation, explains his motivation for taking part in this February's challenge:

"I received a call not long before Christmas to say that I would probably have my procedure for a new pulmonary valve in the early months of 2023. I spotted this challenge on Facebook and realised that it could be a chance to give back to the team who have supported me - and who will hopefully save my life - in a constructive and public manner."

To learn more and sign up for 100 Miles in a Month in February, simply visit www. materfoundation.ie, email contact@materfoundation.ie or call 01 830 3482.

PRESENTATION: Killarney and District Motor Club members presented €58,293 to the Irish Community Air Ambulance from the club’s Forestry Rally in February 2022. The rally is returning this year for the same cause. Photo: Anthony O'Connor

CHALLENGE: Pictured encouraging people across Ireland to participate in the Mater Foundation’s 100 Miles in a Month challenge are Mater Foundation team members Ger Donnellan and Tom Grace.

WATCH READ LISTEN

THE LATEST PROGRAMMES, FILMS, BOOKS & MUSIC

| By Michelle Crean

watch

JUNG_E

In the gripping sci-fi thriller 'JUNG_E', humans have escaped Earth, which has been devastated by drastic climate change. And to end the war taking place at the shelters, the brain of the legendary mercenary Yun Jung-yi is cloned by those trying to develop the ultimate A.I. combat warrior.

The civil war that occurs there continues on for decades, and Yun Jung-yi (Kim Hyun-joo) becomes a legendary mercenary and military strategist with countless victories to her name. But one failed mission puts her in a vegetative state. Kronoid, a military A.I. devel-

opment company, attempts to create the ultimate combat warrior by cloning her brain.

35 years later, Jung-yi's daughter Yun Seo-hyun (Kang Soo-youn) participates in this effort as the head researcher of the JUNG_E project.

When little progress is made despite numerous cloning and simulation attempts, Kronoid abandons the research to launch another project. Seo-hyun learns of their plans and resolves to save JUNG_E.

Thus begins the A.I. combat warrior JUNG_E's escape from the research lab.

The Bandit Queens

Author: Parini Shroff

A young Indian woman finds the false rumours that she killed her husband surprisingly useful - until other women in the village start asking for her help getting rid of their own husbands - in this razor-sharp debut.

Five years ago, Geeta lost her no-good husband. As in, she actually lost himhe walked out on her and she has no idea where he is. But in her remote village in India, rumour has it that Geeta killed him - and it’s a rumour that just won’t die.

It turns out that being known as a “selfmade” widow comes with some perks as no one messes with her.

Freedom must look good on Geeta, because now other women are asking for her “expertise”, making her an unwitting consultant for husband disposal.

And not all of them are asking nicely.

With Geeta’s dangerous reputation becoming a double-edged sword, she has to find a way to protect the

read on the box listen

Meltybrains? ‘Ease That Mind’

The final single of Meltybrains? highly anticipated new album ‘You’ is due for release on January 25.

‘Ease That Mind’ follows their singles ‘Space Ghetto’, ‘Worth’, and ‘Journey To/From The Meltyworld’.

“Ease that mind is a song borne out of separation," the band says.

"A bittersweet longing for a loved one or a certain comfort in sadness."

‘You’ tells a story that’s been told over and over again, the same story that everyone knows - the universality of the individual. In an era of individuality and solipsism, the ultimate message of

the album is that everyone has a similar journey to go on. And much like the album itself, you just do it in your own way. The record is about the band, exploring their own lives, but ultimately the record wasn’t made for them - it was for you.

Meltybrains? are a group of friends who get together to play music, make art, and be a positive influence in each other’s lives. They are five young Irish men who started a band with the intention of making great music and putting on great live shows.

life she’s built - but even the best-laid plans of would-be widows tend to go awry. What happens next sets in motion a chain of events that will change everything, not just for Geeta, but for all the women in their village.

BIG BIG MOVIE

Blood Diamond (S)

RTÉ2, Friday, 9.40pm

Smuggler Danny Archer ends up in prison in war-torn Sierra Leone in 1999, where he meets Solomon, a Mende fisherman separated from his family by guerrillas. Danny pledges to help the desperate man rescue his son, who has been forcibly conscripted as a child soldier, in return for a rare pink diamond that Solomon had hidden away before his capture. Action thriller, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Djimon Hounsou and Jennifer Connelly.

The Secret Life of Pets (S)

RTÉ ONE, Saturday, 6.35pm

When rivalry leaves them cast adrift on the streets of New York, two bickering hounds must put their differences aside and pull together. Animated adventure from the makers of 'Despicable Me', featuring the voices of Louis CK, Eric Stonestreet and Kevin Hart.

Special occasion for Muckross rally family in Birmingham

| By Sean Moriarty

A Muckross rally family shared a special moment in Birmingham last Saturday.

International co-driver Noel O’Sullivan Jr won the 2022 British Rally Championship alongside Welsh driver Osian Pryce. The official award ceremony for the prestigious title will take place in London later this month.

However, another presentation was held last Saturday to coincide with the ‘Autosport International' motorsport show in Birmingham on Saturday.

Noel Jr was there to lift the impressive championship trophy and was accompa-

nied by his father Noel Sr who has been involved in local motorsport for nearly 50 years. He won his class in the Rentokil Initial Killarney Historic Rally before Christmas and is a former Irish Tarmac Rally Championship Modified Category champion.

“Holding that trophy with my father was quite a moment. It's been quite a journey travelling over and back to the UK over the last few years but Saturday made it all worth it,” Noel Jr said.

“We have one more prizegiving, the Motorsport UK Night of Champions in London and after that, the chapter on 2022 will be closed and I'll be turning my attention to the new season ahead.”

SPECIAL: Noel O’Sullivan Jr and Noel O’Sullivan Sr share a special moment at the ‘Autosport International’ last Saturday.

202 Sandero Signature 1.0 5dr Black 32km €15,490 202 Clio Iconic 1.0 TCE 100 5dr Iron Blue 40km €19,490 191 VW Polo 1.0 TSI Trendline Grey 53km €16,450 191 Fiesta 1.1 Zetec 5dr Black 52Km €16,900 181 Clio Dynamique Nav Black 43km €14,490 162 VW Polo 1.0 Fun Blue Sunroof 82Km €13,900 161 Skoda Fabia 1.0 Ambition White 79km €12,900

221 Duster 1.5 dci Prestige Pearl Black 27Km €26,490 211 GrandScenic dci 120 Signature Nav 7 Seats Blue/Black 21Km €35,900

211 Audi Q5 35 TDI SE Auto Blue 32km

€57,900

202 Captur Iconic TCE 130 Automatic Silver/Black 28Km €25,950

201 Duster 1.5 dci Prestige 4x4 Iron Blue Leather 57Km €26,490

192 Megane Sport Tourer 1.5 dci 115 Estate Flame Red 74Km €19,490

191 Captur GT-Line dci 90 Desert Orange/Black 40km €19,900

191 Koleos 1.6 dci Mars Red 63km €29,950

172 GrandScenic dci 120 Dynamique Nav 7 Seats Blue 151Km €21,490 172 Stepway 1.0 TCE 90 Signature Slate Grey 63km €11,900

171 Ford Kuga 1.5 TDCI Titanium Blue 171km €18,950

162 Peugeot 2008 Active 1.6 HDI Black 111km €12,900

161 Transit Tourneo Connect 88km Black Wheelchair ramp €19,900

131 Audi Q3 2.0 TDI 140 SE Silver 163Km €16,900

COMMERCIALS

191 Master LM35 145 Business Van LWB White 107Km €19,500 + Vat 191 Master LM35 130 Business + Van LWB White 165Km €17,500 + Vat

Transit 350 LWB Trend 125BHP FWD White 117Km €13,500 + Vat

FINANCESECTION

McGuire Liston Lewis Road, Killarney, Co. Kerry liam@mcguireliston.ie 064 6632255

Dermot Cronin

Old Market Ln, Killarney, Co. Kerry kerrymortgagecentre@eircom.net. 064 662 2775

Michael O’Connor CFA is an investment consultant with a decade of experience within the financial industry.

January tends to bring its fair share of resolutions. Under the blinding influence of Christmas blues, we vow this will be the year we lose weight, the year we drink less, the year we sort out our finances.

So for those about to undertake a forensic examination of their finances in a bid to uncover the mystery of where your money has been disappearing to all these years, here is my number one rule.

Don’t overcomplicate it.

In psychology there is a term known

CALL US: 064 6632215 OR

EMAIL: SALES@KILLARNEYADVERTISER.IE

My number one rule

as ‘complexity bias’. This refers to our tendency to levitate toward the more complex solution, ultimately over-complicating a simple problem.

Those with the most complex solutions get resounding recognition, while the obvious answers get discarded.

In investing, this is everywhere, millions of strategies, thousands of different investment options, each one more convoluted than the next.

And people eat it up, paying portfolio managers through the nose for the privilege of complexity.

My advice: if you’re starting out, embrace simplicity.

Everyone wants the optimal portfolio. They want to know the name of the next stock that’s going to 10x in value. They want maximum returns. This pursuit of the perfect trade often results in people investing in nothing at all.

We operate in extremes: everything or nothing. The absence of the illusive perfect investment means we do nothing with our money; sitting on our hands, waiting for a life-changing investment to come up and slap us in the face.

Now, I hate to be the bearer of bad news here, and this may be stating the obvious, but some people need to hear it. There is no perfect investment, but thankfully, there are plenty of good ones, and that’s a start. This is where you should focus your efforts. Start with the easy wins.

STRIVE FOR PROGRESS, NOT PERFECTION

Simplifying the problem instead of chasing perfection allows you to take the necessary steps to get started. From there, you can build out your investments over time.

The general consensus suggests investing is too risky. I get it. A lot of trading activity can be speculative at best. But the recent rise in interest rates means there are now higher interest rates, low-risk investments out there. This is a game-changer. Now there are opportunities for even the most riskaverse investor to enter the market.

In 2022, we all felt first-hand the damage that inflation can do to our savings. Now more than ever, you need to be

proactive to ensure you are putting your money to work.

Investment options that are backed by the full faith and credit of the US Government are now offering up to 5%. This is the perfect place to start. Simple.

Yes, 5% a year won’t make you a millionaire overnight, but that’s not the game we are playing. At least not yet. Start by improving your current situation, step by step. If you’re accepting pennies from your deposit account, improve your returns by investing in short-term bonds.

Risk-free treasuries offer 4.8%, while the savings account rate for all financial institutions insured by the FDIC is 0.24%.

One simple change will almost 20x your return.

Take the easy wins, it doesn’t all have to be as complicated as they make it out to be.

For anyone who is needs help, just reach out to me at mike@theislandinvestor.com or scan the QR code. Always happy to help.

What's the law for operating e-scooters?

The Transport Minister Mr Eamon Ryan is preparing to regulate the use of e-scooters in the coming months.

The current situation is problematic as under the 1961 Road Traffic Act, e-scooters would be classified as mechanically propelled vehicles. This would mean you would need insurance, road tax and a driving licence to use them in a public place.

This raises a number of challenges not least the fact there is currently no insurance market that is insuring e-scooters. So where does the minister go to next? Mr Ryan is believed to be looking at reclassifying the e-scooter devices as “powered personal transporters”. The users would be treated much as a cyclist, once the speed of the scooter is under

25kph.

If this legislation is passed users of e-scooters would not require insurance, road tax or a driving licence to operate the devices in a public place. Clearly there is much work to be done on the legislation such as minimum age of users, speed of the device, rules around the use of helmets and lights and banning e-scooters from footpaths.

HOW SAFE ARE E-SCOOTERS?

According to the most recent Garda figures, there were 791 scooter related incidents last year of which 266 involved a collision. The majority of the incidents

occurred in Dublin.

Paris was in the vanguard of major cities to roll out the use of e-scooters for hire and currently has a fleet of 15,000 available through three electric scooter operators. E-scooter accidents have increased in the city, there were 22 deaths last year up from seven in 2020. Parisians will now be invited to vote in a referendum on whether to allow electric scooter rental services to continue operating in the city. This referendum is planned for April 2 next.

Returning to our challenges in Ireland, will Eamon Ryan proceed with the new legislation? It would appear he has little choice, the numbers of e-scooters are rising and the current situation is a legal quagmire.

John Healy of Healy Insurances.

BER D1 BER 20.01.2023 36 PROPERTY

PENDING

Sq m

Ideally positioned to the rear of the much sought after Millwood development with southerly views of Mangerton mountain & St Marys Cathedral. Enclosed private rear garden.

VIEWING: BY APPOINTMENT PRICE: €320,000 VIEWING: BY APPOINTMENT PRICE: €335,000 34 MILLWOOD, ST MARGARET’S ROAD BALLYDOWNEY, KILLARNEY 3 2 90

Property prices expected to rise by 2 percent this year

It’s that time of year again where property reports on the year past are plentiful, with financial institutions, agencies and construction firms all analysing the past 12 month’s activity and making predictions for the year ahead.

The latest report, from the Society of Chartered Surveyors (SCSI) has highlighted that in the final quarter of 2022, 40% of house sales were due to landlords exiting the market.

It suggests property prices are expected to rise by 2 percent this year, a considerable slowdown on the double-digit growth rates up to now which is likely to put a squeeze on house builders because construction costs are rising at more than 2

percent. This will directly impact on supply to the market.

The large numbers of buy-to-let properties being sold will not be replaced in the rental market, putting more pressure on rental costs.

The survey found that popular new three-bed semis remain out of the reach for a large number of first-time buyers on average salaries.

The trend of second-hand buy-to-let properties coming on the market was evident throughout 2022, but it ramped up in the last quarter of the year. While this may have helped to increase the number of properties available for sale – 66% of agents reported low stock levels this year

– the lack of supply remains the dominant issue in the market.

The trend of private landlords exiting the market also has serious implications for the supply of rental properties. SCSI agents are reporting that the supply of available units to rent is at one of the lowest levels ever, and they do not believe the situation will improve in the short term.

“Almost 80% of agents surveyed are of the view that individual buy-to-let second-hand rental units being sold at present will not be replaced in the rental market in the next two years,” said John O’Sullivan of SCSI.

The survey found the three primary reasons for occupied residential units com-

TED HEALY

| ASCSI ARICSDip AVEA

• Two bedroom mid-terrace house.

• With front and rear gardens.

• In need of modernisation.

• Great location, close to all amenities.

• Oil fired central heating.

• BER pending.

TO LET: Rooms to rent in Tralee town. Contact 087-2944505.

TO LET: 4-bedroom house in Fires village. Also, 2 bedroom apartment in Beaufort. Phone 086-8136888.

CLASSIFIEDS

AVAILABLE

AVAILABLE: Music lessons- piano, violin, fiddle, guitar, banjo. Garda vetted. ONLINE

OPTION ALSO AVAILABLE. Tel John: 0876801392 or Maggie: 087-6961681.

AVAILABLE: Removal service – house, office… with local and nationwide deliveries. Anytime, anywhere, 7 days a week. Also, all kinds of clear-outs etc. Call 087-2600407.

AVAILABLE: Top Quality Cleaner for both commercial and domestic premises. All jobs

TO LET: Storage unit to rent in the Killarney area. Please contact Sheila on 0872944505 for further details.

TO LET: 4-bedroom house in Bridgefield, Killarney town. Long-term. Call 0872244604.

• Attractive four bedroom bungalow, in good condition throughout.

• Only 6 mins. Drive from Killarney.

• Adjacent to Spa football Field,

• Minutes drive from Supervalu.

• Lawn and Patio area to rear, with large storage shed.

• Tarmac Driveway.

• Oil fired central heating & Solid fuel stove.

• BER RATING D1.

TO LET: Room to let, 10-minute walk to Killarney town centre. Would suit hotel staff. Call 087-2484804.

WANTED: Houses and apartments to rent in the Killarney area.

considered, all Kerry areas covered and references on request. Call 085-2051008.

AVAILABLE: DOG WALKER - I walk dogs, giving them the exercise and socialisation, they need to be healthy, fit and happy. Please call 083-1032755.

ANIMALS

ANIMALS: HUG: Homes for Unwanted Greyhounds. For further details please contact us on 087 9822695 or email homesforunwantedgreyhounds@eircom.net.

ANIMALS: KLAWS (Kenmare and Locality Animal Welfare Society) We have a number of adult cats (all colours) awaiting homes. 087-9729240 or 087-9704480.

WANTED

WANTED: Childminder wanted in Killarney area for 8-month-old girl from mid-Feb. Ideally full-time (Mon-Fri) in childminders own home but happy to be flexible if needed. Please contact Bernice on 0871217690.

WANTED: Person wanted for general house-

Contact 086-8136888

WANTED: Long-term 4/5-bedroom family home, close to Killarney preferably. Rural setting. Open to all options, ideally minimum 5-year lease. Move in by March 2023. Please call 0874446384 anytime.

keeping duties with some cooking for Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. House is in Muckross Area. Apply Box No.3405.

MOTORING

FOR SALE: 2003 BMW 1995 CC silver coupe car. 46,000 miles, mint condition and sunroof. Taxed to May 23, NCT to May 23, new battery and tyres. €5,900. Call 0872725471.

• Pruning and Reducing Trees

AND GARDEN NEEDS

& 1ST ANNIVERSARY

MCCARTHY

In loving memory of Michael McCarthy Ardshanavooly, Killarney Who passed away on 22nd January 2022.

As we lovingly remember and greatly miss our beloved Michael on his first anniversary, his wife Sheila and children Kieran, Paul, Eileen, Mary, Micheál, Anna-Marie and Martina would like to acknowledge and sincerely thank all those who sympathised, travelled long distances, sent mass cards, made phone calls, sent condolences online and sent donations in lieu of flowers to the Kerry Stars Special Olympics Club.

We would like to offer our deepest gratitude to our extended family, kind neighbours and friends who supported us and brought food and refreshments to our home.

A special word of thanks to all the health care staff who looked after Michael. To the ambulance personnel, the nurses, doctors and wider staff of University Hospital Kerry and in particular the staff of the intensive care unit who provided Michael with such wonderful, dignified care and showed us his family the utmost respect and compassion.

We would also like to thank the hospital chaplains Fr. Teddy Lenihan and Fr, Gerard O’Leary who visited Michael in ICU and provided us with great support.

Thank you to Dr. Eleanor Johnson and staff at the Deenagh Medical Practice and to Anthony and all his staff at O’Sullivan’s Pharmacy.

A very special thank you to Fr. Niall Howard for his guidance and kindness to us and for making Michael’s mass so heartfelt and personal. A thank you also to the priests who concelebrated with Fr. Niall.

Thank you to Mary and Michelle O’Callaghan who provided the beautiful music and singing at the ceremony.

Thank you to Michael and Mary O’Shea and their staff for their professionalism, guidance, compassion and respect. Thank you also to the grave digger Seamus O’Connor for the respect shown to us.

To Michael’s former work colleagues in St. Finian’s Hospital and in the Ballydribeen Centre who formed a guard of honour, we send you our heartfelt thanks.

Please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our sincere gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions.

Michael’s Anniversary Mass is on Sunday 22nd January at 11am in The Church of the Resurrection, Park Road, Killarney.

May he Rest in Peace

NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART

Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you this special one, (mention favour). Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted. Never known to fail. Must promise publication of prayer. R.F.

1ST ANNIVERSARY MCCARTHY

In loving memory of Michael McCarthy Ardshanavooly, Killarney

Who passed away on 22nd January 2022.

With tearful eyes we watched you And saw you pass away Although we loved you dearly We could not make you stay.

No matter how we spend our days No matter what we do No morning dawns or evening falls When we don’t think of you.

Lovingly remembered by your wife Sheila, your children, Kieran, Paul, Eileen, Mary, Micheál, Anna-Marie and Martina, daughters-in-law, sons-in-law and grandchildren.

3RD ANNIVERSARY

GOODWIN

2ND ANNIVERSARY

MC GOUGH

In loving memory of Mary McGough Late of Ballymalis, Beaufort and Formerly of Ardshanavooley and Clash, Lissivigeen Who died on 22nd Janurary 2021.

We think about you always We talk about you still You have never been forgotten And Mary you never will.

We hold you close within our hearts And there you will remain To walk and guide us through our lives Until we meet again.

So sadly missed and will never be forgotten, love you always, Mary.

Your loving sisters and brothers xxx

2ND ANNIVERSARY MCGOUGH

In loving memory of My mother and best friend Patricia (Pat) Goodwin nee O’Sullivan Glasheen, Cork and Knockaninane West, Killarney Who died on 20th January 2020.

There’s a little place within my heart That’s with me every day A place where all my memories Are safely tucked away.

It is the perfect place for me At special times I go For words alone could not explain How much I miss you so.

Love always, your daughter, Áine xxx ooo

Also sadly missed by your son Gerard, Sadie, and family.

3rd Anniversary Mass will be held on Sunday 22nd January at 11am in Christ Our Light Church, Ballincollig. View online churchservices.tv (Christ Our Light Church, Ballincollig)

12TH ANNIVERSARY

RIORDAN

In loving memory of Mary McGough

Late of Ballymalis, Beaufort, Killarney Who died on 22nd January 2021.

Those special memories of you will always bring a smile, If only we could have you back just for a little while.

Then we could sit and talk again, just like we used to do. You always meant the world to us, and always will do too.

The fact that you’re no longer here, will always cause us pain, but you’re forever in our hearts until we meet again.

Always loved and forever missed by Danny, Alan, Shari and your loving grandchildren.

Anniversary Mass is on Saturday 21st January 2023 at 6.15pm in St. Mary’s Cathedral.

4TH ANNIVERSARY O’DOWD

5TH ANNIVERSARY

CORBETT

In loving memory of Mary Corbett

Late of Holy Cross, Firies Who died on 23rd January 2018.

You can shed tears that she is gone Or you can smile because she lived You can close your eyes and pray That she’ll come back

Or you can open your eyes And see all she has left Your heart can be empty

Because you can’t see her Or you can be full of the love That she shared You can remember her

And only that she is gone Or you can cherish her memory And let it live on You can cry and close your mind, be empty and turn your back Or you can do what Mom would want Smile, open your eyes, love and go on. Sadly missed, we think about you every day Mom.

Your daughter Maria, son-in-law Malcolm and granddaughters Clara and Saoirse.

5TH ANNIVERSARY

CORBETT

In loving memory of A special mom Mary Corbett

Late of Holy Cross, Firies Who died on 23rd January 2018.

There are no words to tell you mom What losing you has meant But now each day brings memories Of happy years we spent.

You’d want us all to smile again And thats just what we do Every time we reminisce With loving thoughts of you.

You’re with us when each new day dawns And when we say goodnight Our guardian angel here on earth And heaven’s shining light.

Lovingly remembered by Niall.

5TH ANNIVERSARY

CORBETT

In loving memory of Michael Riordan

Late of Cockhill, Kilcummin Who died on 22nd January 2011.

So many people knew you And that’s what makes us proud You were that special person That stood out in the crowd

For those who loved and lost you And whose parting brought such pain We will cherish your memory forever In a world that’s never the same.

Sadly missed by your loving sister Sheila & Family.

In loving memory of Pa O’Dowd

Dromyrourk, Muckross, and Formerly of 6 St Brendan’s Place, Killarney Who passed away on 16th January 2019.

Memories are special They dont fade away We think of you always Not just today.

Sadly missed by sons Seamus and Michael and Michael’s partner Caroline.

Anniversary mass is on Sunday 22nd January at 9.30am in Muckross church.

www.killarneyadvertiser.ie

In loving memory of A special Mom & Nan Mary Corbett

Late of Holy Cross, Firies

Who died on 23rd January 2018.

Somewhere beyond the sunset Where loved ones never die You sleep in a beautiful garden Beneath a golden sky

Though Heaven and Earth divide us We are never far apart For you are always on our minds And forever in our hearts.

Lovingly remembered by Siobhan, Noel, Gary, Cian and Mason. xx

1ST BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE

DALY

In loving memory of Bernard Daly Late of Arkansas, USA and Scartaglin Whose birthday occurs on 13th January.

We thought of you today But that is nothing new We thought about you yesterday And will tomorrow too We think of you in silence And make no outward show For what it meant to lose you Only those who loved you know Remembering you is easy We do it every day It’s just the pain of losing you That will never go away.

Those we love don’t go away They walk beside us everyday.

Sadly missed , forever loved by the Daly family.

7TH ANNIVERSARY

CRONIN

2ND ANNIVERSARY CAHILLANE

In loving memory of Bertie Cahillane

Late of Scrahan Mews, Ross Road Formerly of Lakeview, Fossa, Killarney and Rangue, Killorglin

Who died on 23rd January 2021.

Softly in the morning You heard a gentle call You took the hand God offered you And quietly left us all

When nights are cold and stars are few We close our eyes and think of you A silent hope, a silent tear A silent wish that you were here.

Always loved and remembered by your loving family.

Anniversary Mass will be held on Monday 23rd January 2023 at 6.15pm in St Mary’s Cathedral, Killarney.

3RD ANNIVERSARY

LUCEY

In loving memory of Denis Lucey

6TH ANNIVERSARY

CRONIN

In loving memory of Margaret Cronin Bendameer, Old Deerpark, Killarney Who passed on 23rd January 2017.

Our lives go on without you But nothing is the same We have to hide our heartache When someone speaks your name.

Sad are the hearts that love you Silent are the tears that fall Living here without you Is the hardest part of all.

You did so many things for us Your heart was kind and true And when we needed someone We could always count on you.

The special years will not return When we are all together But with the love in our hearts You walk with us forever.

Loved and remembered every day from Margaret, Annette, grandson Daniel and son-in-law Owen.

Anniversary Mass is on Monday 23rd January at 6.15pm in St.Mary’s Cathedral. www.killarneyparish.com

6TH ANNIVERSARY

BURKE

1ST ANNIVERSARY

O’CONNELL

In loving memory of Ders O’Connell

Curragh, Aghadoe, Killarney

Who passed away on 25th January 2022.

As we lovingly remember Ders on his 1st anniversary, his wife Mary and family would like to express our deep appreciation to all our family, friends and neighbours who extended their support, kindness & sympathy.

To all those who sent cards, made phone calls and online condolences. To those who travelled long distances, our neighbours, family & friends for their ongoing support, thank you all.

We, his family would like to acknowledge and thank all those who helped him during his illness. The nurses, doctors, carers and Ambulance crew, who called and helped us to care for Daddy at home. We would especially like to thank Dr.Darren Quirke, Dr.Ken Keohane, Marian, Stephen, and Dr.Liston’s team that also helped Daddy.

We would like to thank Fr. Niall Geaney and Jimmy who provided support and guidance to us. We would also like to thank them for a very personal funeral mass. Also, a special thanks to our neighbour Noel, and to Tracey for the beautiful music at the funeral mass and at the graveside.

In loving memory of John Cronin Knockdoorah, Headford, Co Kerry Who died on 27th January 2016. RIP

We thought of you today But that was nothing new We thought of you yesterday and will tomorrow too Your memory is as dear today As in the hour you passed away.

Fondly missed by your wife Phil, daughters Martina and Annette, son Sean, son-in-law Denis, daughter-in-law Michelle, Annette’s partner Paul and grandchildren Lorna, Dylan, Louis, Teddy and Dominick.

Anniversary Mass is on Sunday 22nd January at 11.30am in St Josephs Church, Rathmore.

7TH ANNIVERSARY

O’SHEA

Late of Lisbabe, Headford, Killarney Who died on 26th January 2020.

Something will remind me I never know just when It might be something someone says And it all comes back again.

The times we spent together The happiness, the fun Once again I feel the pain Of life without my Son.

It’s said that time’s a healer I’m not sure this is true There’s not a day goes by Son That I don’t cry for you.

Sadly missed and never forgotten by your heartbroken mother, brothers, sisters and families.

4TH ANNIVERSARY

O’DONOGHUE

In loving memory of Michael Burke Scrahan Court, Killarney Who passed away on 19th January 2017.

The birds they sang At the break of day Start again I heard them say Ring the bells that still can ring Forget your perfect offering There is a crack, a crack in everything That’s how the light gets in. (Cohen)

Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his wife, Mela, sons John and Michael, daughters Sarah and Emily, son-in-law Owen, daughters-in-law Bobbie and Jennifer and his eight grandchildren.

Ní bheidh a leithéid arís ann

Anniversary Mass is on Saturday 21st January at 6.15pm in St.Mary’s Cathedral, Killarney.

17TH ANNIVERSARY

We wish to thank the undertakers, Mary & Mike O’Shea and their team for their guidance, kindness and professionalism. Thank you to the Killarney Royal Hotel for the lovely food that they provided for us. Finally, we would like to thank Killarney Golf and Fishing Club for the beautiful meal in a setting looking out over the lakes that Ders loved.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our sincere gratitude. Mass will be offered for your intentions.

Ders’ First Anniversary Mass is on Saturday 28th January 2023 at 7.30pm in the Prince of Peace Church, Fossa.

2ND ANNIVERSARY TWOMEY

In loving memory of Bridie O’Shea

Woodlawn Park, Killarney

Who passed away on 25th January 2016.

God called your name so softly That only you could hear And no one heard the footsteps Of Angels drawing near

The golden gates stood open God saw you needed rest His gardens must be beautiful He only takes the best.

Sadly missed by Joe, Oli, Joann, Sean, Bríd and grandchildren.

In loving memory of Elizabeth (Lilly) O Donoghue Knockeenduve, Killarney,

Who died on 26th January 2019.

Your life was one of kindly deeds A helping hand for others’ needs Sincere and true in heart and mind Beautiful memories left behind

We hold you close within our hearts And there you shall remain To walk with us throughout our lives Until we meet again.

Lovingly remembered by all the family.

Anniversary Mass for Elizabeth is on Thursday 26th January at 9:30am in the Church of the Resurrection.

O’SHEA

In loving memory of Damian O’ Shea

Late of Oakhill, Ballydribben, Killarney

Formerly of 62 St. Brendan’s Terrace Who died on 22nd January 2006.

Deep in our hearts your memory is kept To love, to cherish and never forget.

Always remembered by your brother Connie, Mary and Ian.

In loving memory of A dear Mother and Nana Mary Twomey Inches, Rathmore

Who passed away on 9th January 2021.

Softly in the night You heard a gentle call You took the hand God offered you And quietly left us all

It broke our hearts to lose you But you did not go alone For part of us went with you The day God called you home.

In our hearts you will live forever Because we thought the world of you.

Always loved and never forgotten Tim, Joan, Mag, Cian and Darren.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT & 1ST ANNIVERSARY

O’SHEA

In loving memory of David O’Shea Rookery Close, Killarney Whose anniversary occurs on 22 January.

As we lovingly remember David, a husband, dad and grandad, whose first anniversary falls on 22nd January, his wife Kay, daughters Caroline, Colette, Aine, sonin-law John, grandchildren Conor, Aaron, Daniel and Sara Louise and extended family, would like to express our appreciation and sincere thanks to friends, neighbours and well wishers who supported us, sent mass cards and online condolences on RIP.ie.

Thank you to all our family who travelled from London.

Thanks to all the staff at Ross Medical Centre, Killarney and a special thanks to his GP Dr. Danielle O’Leary for her great care and kindness. Thanks to the Dialysis Unit, Tralee for their great care shown to David.

Thanks to the O’Shea undertakers for their professionalism, kindness and guidance. Thanks to the grave diggers who prepared his final resting place.

Thanks to the Fianna Fail local cumann who organised and participated in the guard of honour.

Thanks to Fr. Jim Lenihan who celebrated a beautiful funeral mass. Thanks to Helen Kerins for her beautiful singing, it was a part of making the funeral mass so special.

As it is impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deepest gratitude to all. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass wil be offered for your intentions.

It is sad to walk the road alone Instead of side by side But to all, there comes a moment When the ways of life divide

You gave me years of happiness Then came sorrow and tears But you left me beautiful memories I will treasure through the years.

Loved and sadly missed by your loving wife Kay.

First Anniversary Mass is on Sunday 22nd January at 12 noon in St. Mary’s Cathedral, Killarney.

1ST ANNIVERSARY O’SHEA

3RD ANNIVERSARY MURHILL

In loving memory of A Special Dad David O’Shea Rookery Close, Killarney Who died on 22 January 2022.

A golden heart stop beating Hard working hands at rest It broke our hearts to see you go God only takes the best.

Loved and remembered everyday Your daughter Caroline and grandsons Conor and Aaron.

1ST ANNIVERSARY

O’SHEA

In loving memory of Hugh Murhill Killegy Lower, Muckross, Killarney Who died on 21st January 2020.

We hold you close within our hearts And there you shall remain To walk with us throughout our lives Until we meet again.

So Rest In Peace, dear loved one And thanks for all you’ve done We pray that God has given you The crown you’ve truly won.

Your life was a blessing Your memory a treasure You are loved beyond words And missed beyond measure.

Sadly missed and never forgotten by your loving wife Susan, daughters Jemma and Kaylin, your sons John and Hugh Daniel and grandchildren Amelia and Thomas xxxx

9TH ANNIVERSARY O’DONOGHUE

In loving memory of Michael O’Donoghue

Derryreague, Clonkeen, Killarney Who died on 23rd January 2014.

Gone are the days we used to share But in my heart, you are always there Never more than a thought away Loved and remembered everyday.

Will those who think of Mike today A little prayer to Jesus say.

Very sadly missed by your loving wife Anne.

Anniversary Mass for Mike is on Sunday 22nd January at 9.30am In Our Lady of the Wayside Church, Clonkeen.

9TH ANNIVERSARY

O’DONOGHUE

In loving memory of Our Dearest Dad David O’Shea

Rookery Close, Killarney Who died on 22 January 2022.

We miss him in his garden Doing odd jobs here and there We miss hime at the table When we see the empty chair

We miss him, oh we miss him In a hundred different ways When troubles come the family Would always turn to him

He always had a cheery word When things were looking grim And now he’s gone we know He wouldn’t want us to be sad But life will never be the same Without our Dearest Dad.

Your loving daughter Colette.

1ST ANNIVERSARY

O’SHEA

3RD ANNIVERSARY MURHILL

In loving memory of Hugh Murhill Killegy Lower, Muckross, Killarney Whose anniversary occurs on 21st January.

We will always have memories To cherish and hold Of a wonderful brother More precious than gold.

Sadly missed by your brothers Pa, John, Donie and Frank, sister Margaret and their families.

A beautiful memory dearer than gold Of an Uncle whose worth can never be told.

Fondly remembered, your nieces and nephews xxx

With love I remember My dear brother

Michael (Mikie) O’Donoghue

Late of Derryreague, Clonkeen, Killarney

Who died on 23rd January 2014.

Brother

There is always a face before me A voice I would love to hear A smile I will always remember Of a Brother I loved so dear.

Deep in my heart lies a picture More precious than silver or gold It’s a picture of you Brother Whose memory will never grow old.

Too dearly loved to be forgotten by your loving sister Maura.

9TH ANNIVERSARY O’DONOGHUE

In loving memory of My dear brother David O’Shea

Rookery Close, Killarney Who died on 22 January 2022. RIP

On a quiet January day God called your name so gently That only you could hear No one heard the footsteps Of the angels drawing near

Softly from the shadow There came a gentle call You closed your eyes and went to sleep You gently left us all.

Sadly missed and always in my thoughts and prayers, Mary Bridget.

A daily thought, a silent tear A constant wish that you were here Never more than a thought away Loved and remembered every day.

Your daughter Aine, son-in-law John and grandchildren Daniel and Sarah Louise.

In loving memory of Our Uncle Michael (Mikie) O’Donoghue Late of Derryreague, Clonkeen, Killarney Who died on 23rd January 2014.

Uncle We want to tell you something Uncle So there can be no doubt You’re so wonderful to think of But so hard to do without.

Sadly missed and always remembered by Donal, Eileen, Padraig, Rosemarie and families.

MIRACLE PRAYER

Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked You for many favours. This time I ask you this very special one (mention favour). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within Your own Heart where Your Father sees it. Then, in His merciful eyes it will become Your favour not mine. Amen. Say for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. M.P.

6TH & 16TH ANNIVERSARIES

O’ CONNOR

In loving memory of Sheila and Bernie O’ Connor, O’Kelly’s Villas, Killarney.

Sheila who died on 21st January 2017 and Bernie who died on 16th January 2007.

Loving parents are now at rest For each of us they did their best Their love was great Their hearts were kind A beautiful memory they left behind.

In heaven they rest No worries, no pain In God’s own time We will meet again.

For those we love don’t go away They walk beside us everyday Unseen, unheard, but always near Still loved, still missed and held so dear.

Lovingly remembered by their family, Phil, Dermot, Ber, Eileen and Angela, grandsons Simon, Jack, Ben and Mark and grandaughter Niamh.

NOVENA TO ST. CLAIRE

Ask St. Claire for 3 favours, one business, two impossible and say nine Hail Mary’s for nine days with lighted candle. Pray whether you believe or not. Publish on ninth day. Powerful Novena. May the sacred heart of Jesus be praised, adored, glorified and loved today and every day throughout the whole world forever Amen. Say six times daily for nine days. Your request will be granted no matter how difficult it may seem. Favour publication must be promised. JOR

20TH ANNIVERSARY

MURPHY

In loving memory of Maura Murphy

Late of 40 Dromhall Park, Woodlawn, Killarney Who died on 21st January 2003.

Each of us in our own way Have special thoughts of you today.

Always remembered by your loving sons Johnny, Don, Eamonn, Mike and Brendan, your daughter Angela, daughters-in-law, son-in-law and grandchildren.

24TH & 40TH ANNIVERSARIES

CASEY

In loving memory of Our dear parents and grandparents Paddy Casey

Who died on 24th January 1999 Ellen Casey Who died on the 1st August 1983 Late of 39 Dalton’s Avenue, Killarney.

Time unfolds another year Memories keep you very near No need for words except to say You are loved and thought of every day.

Loved and remembered by all your family.

37TH ANNIVERSARY BARTLETT

In loving memory of Harry Bartlett

Late of 32 St Brendan’s Place, Killarney Who died on 12th January 1986.

Each of us in our own way Have special thoughts of you today Your name is often spoken We talk about you still You haven’t been forgotten And by us you never will.

Always loved and forever remembered by Majella, David, Helene and Noreen.

MIRACLE PRAYER

Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked You for many favours. This time I ask you this very special one (mention favour). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within Your own Heart where Your Father sees it. Then, in His merciful eyes it will become Your favour not mine. Amen. Say for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. SOC

MIRACLE PRAYER

Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked You for many favours. This time I ask you this very special one (mention favour). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within Your own Heart where Your Father sees it. Then, in His merciful eyes it will become Your favour not mine. Amen. Say for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. DOC

MIRACLE PRAYER

Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked You for many favours. This time I ask you this very special one (mention favour). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within Your own Heart where Your Father sees it. Then, in His merciful eyes it will become Your favour not mine. Amen. Say for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. G.M.

19TH ANNIVERSARY

O’ LEARY

In loving memory of Gerry O’Leary

Late of Dooneen, Kilcummin and Ballydribeen, Killarney Who died on 21st January 2004.

We thought of you with love today But that is nothing new. We thought about you yesterday And days before that too.

We think of you in silence We often speak your name Now all we have is memories And your picture in a frame. Your memory is our keepsake With which we’ll never part God has you in his keeping We have you in our hearts.

Sadly missed by your sons Keith and Nigel, daughters-in-law Elaine and Sally and grandchildren Muireann, Aideen and Lily. xxx

NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART

Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you this special one, (mention favour). Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted. Never known to fail. Must promise publication of prayer. S.M.

PRAYER

Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked You for many favours. This time I ask you this very special one (mention favour). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within Your own Heart where Your Father sees it. Then, in His merciful eyes it will become Your favour not mine. Amen. Say for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. M.P.

MIRACLE

By Eamonn Fitzgerald

SPORT

Follow Adam on Twitter @AdamMoynihan

ADAM MOYNIHAN E: sport@killarneyadvertiser.ie

SEE OUR COLUMNISTS’ COVERAGE OF THE WEEK IN SPORT EAMONN FITZGERALD & SEAN MORIARTY

CHAMPIONS OF IRELAND

East Kerry clubs Fossa and Rathmore claim historic All-Ireland titles

And still they gazed and still the wonder grew, with apologies to Goldsmith. I too wondered like the pupils in ‘The Village Schoolmaster’. So too did Marty Morrissey about who was going to milk the cows in his native Clare on All-Ireland day. Who was in Fossa and in Rathmore on Monday morning or has technology ended the milking by hand? Was there anyone at all left in both parishes, such was the outpouring of emotion when Mark Ryan and Paudie Clifford raised the cups?

Paudie finished with an invitation to “see ye all in the Nugget”. 23-year-old David, his young brother (happy 24th on Sunday, David) had already been interviewed to receive the Man of the Match

award after scoring all of 11 points. 90 minutes later Mark Ryan was equally proud of his Rathmore teammates who won the All-Ireland Intermediate Club title for the first time ever. To clarify

STAR PLAYER: Man of the Match Shane Ryan of Rathmore in action against Conor Quinn of Galbally Pearses. The Kerry keeper kicked 1-3.

Photo: Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile.

the mistaken memories of some GAA supporters, there were great Rathmore players of the past, yet none of them won an All-Ireland club title. They were not part of the East Kerry team that won the inaugural All-Ireland senior club title in 1971, even though their neighbours Gneeveguilla had four medal winners on that occasion.

Did I expect Fossa and Rathmore to be crowned All -Ireland, Junior and Intermediate club champions, respectively?

I certainly did, and gave very confident predictions of the outcomes in last

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week’s edition. Also, I did not expect Kerins O’Rahillhys to make it to the final; they didn’t.

I based the predictions on the quality of players by Fossa and Rathmore and once they got out of Kerry, the road was clear. I was impressed by both teams in their All-Ireland journeys, winning so easily and never in any danger of losing. The scoring stats speak for themselves.

FOSSA 0-19

STEWARTSTOWN HARPS 1-13

Expect the ambush from the teams from the north, especially club and county teams from Tyrone. Mickey Harte was angelic in front of camera, but off-air he steeled his sides to unbelievable levels, stealing many big games and depriving Kerry of two All-Irelands.

Stewartstown Harps had savvy enough to avoid blatant fouling of David Clifford because the cameras were going to zone in on the Footballer of the Year, updated to Irish Independent Sports Star of the Year last week. What a superhero and football genius.

A better tactic was to cut off his supply at source, body-check the older brother Paudie and prevent those searing runs from centre back. From there he deceives everyone and sends a beautiful 40-metre pin-point pass with the ciotóg to Big Brother. The Fossa captain did get through on some occasions on Sunday last, but the Tyrone men excelled in their strong running and support play that saw them leading at half time 1-7 to 0-7.

Fossa were up against it now as the opposition were in control. They trailed by the only goal scored in the 24th, minute when a high speculative ball that hung in the air, seemingly forever, favoured the forward Devlin, and he outsmarted Fossa to score a crucial goal. (35-year-old Devlin also lost to Finuge in the final 18 years ago.)

The break came at the ideal time for

Adrian Sheehan and Eamonn Fitzmaurice to stop the rot and start to dictate play. The latter knows all about Tyrone at county and at club level.

Fossa were outstanding from the start of the second half and by the 37th minute the Cliffords combined to have them level. The Tyrone men hit back, but the Fossa defence excelled with powerful displays from all defenders. Eoin Talbot and Paddy Sheehan put in a great shift and David Clifford got great support from Emmet O’Shea, Harry Buckley and brother Paudie.

Nothing left for Stewartstown but Plan B, unfolding the expected ambush. Full back Darren Devlin was first to see a straight red in the 39th minute.

Down to 14 men, many would expect the losers to fold. No way. The blood was up, and as happens too frequently with numerical advantage, Fossa did not kick on for victory.

It was 14 men each by the 51st minute when Fossa’s Cian O’Shea was black carded. I wasn’t surprised that there would be more bookings, but I certainly did not expect six red cards in a game that for so long was intense, brilliant, to-

tally committing and riveting. The standard of play was unbelievable high for junior clubs. This was a fabulous contest. And so it remained until the 60th minute. Tyrone’s Anton Coyle got a straight red, and one minute later Gareth Devlin got a second yellow and he was sent off. Then the grand finale in the 66th minute, when Kyran Robinson joined the Clifford bothers David (second yellow), and Fossa captain Paudie Clifford on the line.

It matters little now as Fossa stand as worthy All-Ireland Junior champions 2022.

FOSSA: S O’Sullivan; K McCarthy, F Coffey, B Myers; D O’Keeffe, P Sheehan, D O’Connell; E Talbot, C O’Shea; P Clifford (c), M Rennie, R Doyle; H Buckley, D Clifford, E O’Shea.

RATHMORE 1-11 GALBALLY PEARSES 0-11

It was past the 69th minute before the Rathmore supporters could draw a safe breath. The final whistle pronounced them All-Ireland champions, making it a great day for Kerry clubs. Just one goal in it but really Rathmore should have been out the gap by the 53rd minute when they led by seven points.

Man of the Match was Shane Ryan who scored 1-3 and that haul was significant, especially the 23rd-minute goal when his physique and alert brain combined to put daylight between them and Galbally. However, only splendid goalkeeping by veteran keeper Kenneth O’Keeffe prevented Galbally from scoring goals in both halves. On both occasions he dived and sent goalbound shots out for 45s. And it wasn’t just these brilliant saves alone, but his reliability, confidence, and accuracy to find a Rathmore man with kickouts. It reminded me of his great days as a Kerry minor.

Midfielders Mark (captain) and Cathal Ryan won practically all of the long

kickouts and delivered first time inside, where Shane dominated. I was also impressed by Brian Friel, a former Kerry minor.

In this campaign Rathmore depended a lot of the free taking accuracy of Chrissy Spiers. The former Derry minor did score just three points from frees; in other games he scored double digits.

Full forward Conor Donaghy’s strength and speed posed the greatest danger to Rathmore especially in the opening half, but the Rathmore defence grew in stature, especially the ever-cool Paul Murphy and Dan Murphy.

Rathmore will be very proud and they will grow in confidence ahead of their return to the Kerry Senior Football Championship.

Well done also to bainisteoir Denis Moynihan, and to Pádraig O’Mahony, Dan O’Sullivan, Tim Cronin and the rest of the backroom team.

RATHMORE: K O'Keeffe; J O'Sullivan, A Moynihan, D Murphy; F Holohan, P Murphy, A Dineen; M Ryan, C Ryan; B Friel, B O'Keeffe, C Spiers; J Darmody, J Moynihan, S Ryan.

CEIST

11 points from Fossa’s David Clifford was outstanding and eight of these were from play. Was this the best ever tally for an individual in an All-Ireland Club final? Not so. I recall watching Kevin McCarthy scoring 3-7 in the 2019 Intermediate final. No one before him or after him in any grade scored so much from play. It was Kilcummin’s greatest day. What a talented player he was, and could still be, but he is in England.

Other good Kerry scorers in All-Ireland club finals include Ian McCarthy 3-2 (Na Gaeil, 2020); Stephen O’Sullivan 3-1 (Templenoe, 2016); Bryan Sheehan 1-7 (St Mary’s, 2011); Paul Galvin 1-7 (Finuge, 2005); Stephen Wallace 1-6 (Ardfert, 2006); and Liam Carey 1-5 (Beaufort, 2019).

For Fossa, Eoin Talbot and Paddy Sheehan put in a great shift and David Clifford got great support from Emmet O’Shea, Harry Buckley and brother Paudie.

GREATEST DAY: Fossa celebrate after beating Stewartstown in the All-Ireland Junior Club final at Croke Park. Photo: Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile.

PAUDIE REFLECTS ON ‘EMOTIONAL’ FINAL

Speaking to the Killarney Advertiser on Wednesday evening, Fossa captain Paudie Clifford reflected on an emotional All-Ireland Junior Club final against Stewartstown of Tyrone.

Fossa emerged victorious on a scoreline of 0-19 to 1-13 but much of the talk in the aftermath has been focused on ill-discipline. Clifford and five other players were sent off, although he himself was the victim of arguably the worst offence: a vicious elbow to the face in the first minute of stoppage time. Thankfully, the Kerry star was not badly injured in the incident.

“I’m good,” Clifford confirms. “I’ve a cut on the lip. Probably lucky, really. But no, I’m okay. David touched on it (in his post-match interview on TG4), there was a lot of emotion at the end of the game. There was a lot at stake. These things happen.”

The elder Clifford is still disappointed about his own red card, however. Not over the fact that he was sent off per se, but for the reasoning given by referee Thomas Murphy.

“The referee said it was an eye gouge and sure it clearly wasn’t an eye gouge. That’s why I was so annoyed. That’s why I said it in the speech. I was seriously annoyed that he said it was an eye gouge.”

Although the video footage indicates that Clifford has right on his side, he does clearly put his hand in his opponent’s face. If the referee said that the red was for a hand to the face, would he have accepted that?

“I wouldn’t have had any arguments with that really. It was the fact that he said it was an eye gouge that I wasn’t happy with.”

As for the aforementioned acceptance speech, an unorthodox address in which he said “well done” to the match officials before claiming that he shouldn’t have been red carded, Clifford simply puts it down to the immense “emotion” he was feeling at the time.

SUCCESS

Sunday’s victory marked a glorious end to what was a memorable season for Fossa. The relatively small club on the outskirts of Killarney sampled unprecedented success, something Clifford attributes to his hardworking teammates. “Winning an All-Ireland seems so far

away at the start of the year. You have to get out of your group and try to win Kerry, and even then you still have a long way to go.

“After all the hard work that the team has put in, it was unreal to get the reward at the end.

“We’ve had a lot of bad days in the last few years when we haven’t performed on the big occasion. There’s no other way of putting it. But in fairness to the lads, they didn’t put a foot wrong all year. They won Division 4 of the County League and the O’Sullivan Cup (East Kerry Junior Championship) when me and David weren’t there.

“On Sunday Matt Rennie caught massive balls when we needed him to. Dan Connell has been unreal all year since he came back from San Fran and he played very well. David got the big points. The fellas who came off the bench, like Rian Colleran, made a big difference.

“To be fair, there weren’t many fellas that didn’t play well for us. It was a fairly solid performance against a tough team.

I thought [Stewartstown] were very good. Very powerful runners and a very good inside forward line.”

Younger brother David was typically sensational, kicking 0-11 (eight from play) en route to yet another Man of the Match award. The Footballer of the Year turns 24 on Sunday. Is there room for even more improvement in his game as he enters his mid-twenties?

“I suppose he's going to try and go out and improve every day,” Paudie says.

“I’m sure he’s striving towards that, but it remains to be seen. I wouldn’t put it past him.”

The elder Clifford (26) also reserves special praise for Fossa’s management team, in particular bainisteoir Adrian Sheehan and coach Eamonn Fitzmaurice.

“Adrian is a very good man-manager. He’s very modest and he's always willing to listen to the players and take their opinions on board. I really hope that he gets a chance at intercounty level once he’s finished with us, be it minor or U21. But obviously we don’t want him to be finished with us for a long time.

“Eamonn then is an absolute genius really. It’s like he makes things very simple but he also gets a lot across, if you get me? He has all the attributes you could want in a coach.”

Kerry teammates in Currans. But, in his distinctive, matter-of-fact tone, Paudie says that he and David won’t be taking too much time off.

“I’ve been talking to Jack. [The break will be] a few weeks. Nothing major.

“We’ll be ready to go again in a few weeks.”

The 2023 National League gets underway next weekend (January 28/29) with Kerry facing a tough away trip to Donegal on the Sunday. After an extremely long season with county and then club, it would be understandable if the Clifford brothers were granted an extended rest period before linking back up with their

LEADER: Paudie Clifford was at the centre of the action as Fossa beat Stewartstwon in the All-Ireland Club final. Photo: Sportsfile.

New year, same old GAA violence

three minutes still on the clock.

If it stopped before stoppage time, it would have been a very decent advert for football.

Fossa versus Stewartstown had a bit of everything over the course of an absorbing 60 minutes. A typically majestic display by David Clifford at one end was emulated to an admirable degree by Harps’ veteran full forward Gareth Devlin, and the underdogs from Tyrone were within striking distance as the game entered added time.

That’s when things devolved in a manner that is sadly all too familiar to fans of the GAA.

Anton Coyle’s savage MMA-style elbow to the face of Paudie Clifford drew a col-

lective and pained “ooh” from spectators in Croke Park and, I’m sure, from viewers at home across the country. It was a disgraceful act, as false a hit as I’ve seen in a long, long while. The elder Clifford ended up with a bloody mouth. He’s lucky he’s not currently eating through a straw.

Coyle, a second-half substitute, had his gloves taken off before referee Thomas Murphy had a chance to get his book out of his pocket. Star forward Devlin received a second yellow card for an offthe-ball incident seconds later. Heads gone.

What makes the Stewartstown breakdown all the more astonishing is the fact that they were only down a goal with

Now they were down to 12 men and the task facing them had trebled in size. Full back Darren Devlin had been sent off earlier in the half for jabbing the face of Emmett O’Shea, who righty went to ground to highlight the infraction. In fairness, Fossa were lucky to have the full complement of players themselves in the final quarter; Paddy Sheehan’s late tackle in the 43rd minute probably warranted a red as well.

Another unsightly flashpoint came in the fifth minute of additional time when David Clifford halted a Stewartstown counter-attack with a robust intentional foul. A melee ensued after which David (second yellow), Paudie and Kyran Robinson of the Harps were all sent off.

While David Clifford’s red was undeniably the right call, Robinson’s and Paudie Clifford’s have been the subject of fierce debate. For what it’s worth, I felt Robinson’s was harsh and Paudie Clifford’s was understandable given the fact that he put his hand on an opponent’s face.

Far more troubling was an incident that was initially missed by virtually everyone, one that occurred when David Clifford tackled his opponent to the ground.

After the subsequent intermediate final, when reflecting on the major incidents in

the Fossa game, TG4 drew attention to the tackled player.

With both men horizontal and with Clifford’s head being pushed down towards his opponent’s feet by another Stewartstown player, the opponent appeared to reach his hand between Clifford’s legs. Later, Clifford seemed to indicate to the referee that he had been grabbed in the crotch.

It’s not for us to be judge and jury here but at the very least the footage merits very close inspection.

The vast majority of GAA people - be they players, supporters, coaches or officials - are fed up with this constant stream of violence. Not only is it an embarrassment to the Association and everyone involved in it, it’s putting members at risk of serious injury.

Until leading figures at Croke Park get real about violence and misconduct by removing the perpetrators from the equation entirely, these incidents will happen again and again and again. It is only a matter of time before someone suffers a life-changing injury.

Are we happy to wait for that to happen before taking meaningful action?

It’s beyond time for Croke Park to take meaningful action against members who engage in serious misconduct, writes Adam Moynihan

INCIDENT: Two Stewartstown Harps players get to grips with David Clifford. Photo: Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile.

Killarney man Kelliher signs for Kerry

He finished as one of the top scorers in the country two years ago when he was part of the U19s.

The 21-year-old, who plays as a striker, makes the move from local side Killarney Celtic. Kelliher has been an integral cog in their recent period of dominance the Kerry District League. He played a starring role for the club underage and was also a big player for his school, St Brendan's College.

Kelliher is no stranger to the Kerry FC jersey, having lined out in the past for Kerry at U19 level in the League of Ireland. In his time with Kerry, he was one of the top scorers in LOI.

He is currently under scholarship with

the MTU Kerry campus.

“I’m really excited for the challenge,” Kelliher said. “I played League of Ireland at U19 level before with Kerry FC but now it's time to challenge myself at senior level and I'm really looking forward to it."

First team manager Billy Dennehy described Kelliher as a player with a “great attitude”.

£Ryan is a player who came into the League of Ireland underage structures later in his development but has always done really well at club level with Celtic.

“I'm looking forward to seeing Ryan step up to this challenge and score goals at this level - which he is well capable of doing.”

Kerry have also announced the signings of academy graduates Nathan Gleeson, Junior Ankomah, Cormac Buckley and Cian Brosnan. Gleeson and Ankomah both previously played for Tralee Dynamos while Buckley and Brosnan learned their trade across the road at St Brendan’s Park.

Kerry will host Cobh Ramblers in their first match of the season on February 17.

CALLED UP:

Walker buzzer-beater sends crowd wild

There was high drama at the Killarney Sports and Leisure Centre on Saturday last as a buzzer-beating basket by Lakers big man Aron Walker clinched a deserved victory over SETU Carlow (101-99).

With 14 seconds left in the game and SETU Carlow having tied things up at 99 each courtesy of two Conor Harkins free throws, coach Jarlath Lee called a time out. The optimal playe would be to get star American Jack Ferguson into position, and so it transpired, but his long-range shot clipped the rim with 2.5 seconds on the clock. Walker gobbled up the rebound and

finished via the backboard just before the final buzzer - or did he? The match officials deliberated momentarily but the raucous home support, on its feet, had no doubt. And so it was. The basket counted, and the Lakers fans bounced home.

The win edges the Lakers closer to the Limerick Celtics in second place in Division 1 and with three wins in their last four games the much needed momentum is starting to build.

With a free weekend coming, the second instalment of the Killarney Derby on January 28 could be very important indeed.

Kerry ladies set for Division 1 bow

The Kerry ladies will get their 2023 National League Division 1 campaign up and running with an away trip to Waterford on Sunday. Throw-in time is 2pm.

The Kingdom are back at the top table after defeating Armagh in the Division 2 final at Croke Park last April and they will be keen to get off to a winning start against the Déise.

Waterford finished bottom of their pool in 2022 but they avoided demotion by beating Westmeath in the relegation playoff. On paper this could be one of Kerry’s “easiest” games, although in reality there will be no easy games at this highly competitive level of football.

Fixtures against Mayo (away), Donegal (home), Dublin (home), Meath (home), Cork (away) and Galway (away) will fol-

low. The Mayo, Dublin and Cork matches will be shown live on TG4. All other games, including Sunday’s clash with Waterford, will be available via the LGFA’s official live-streaming portal. Interestingly, Kerry have ditched their traditional white home shorts for the 2023 season. Following in the footsteps of several high-profile women’s sports teams, The Kingdom ladies have opted to switch to a darker colour – in this case black – as players say they are more comfortable wearing dark colours while on their periods.

The move has been hailed as “fantastic” by Positive Period Ireland, who say that two out of three girls in Ireland drop of sports by age 13, and that “small changes” like dark shorts can help girls play sport with confidence.

Killarney man Ryan Kelliher has signed for Kerry FC ahead of the 2023 First Division campaign.

Ryan Kelliher has made the switch from Killarney Celtic to Kerry FC.

NEW START: Kerry's Danielle O'Leary in action during last year's league final win over Armagh. Photo: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile.

GUESS WHO'S BACK: Former Kerry manager Peter Keane will take charge of the Killarney Legion senior team for 2023. Keane previously managed the club in 2014 and 2015, leading them to their first county final since 1946 in his second year at the helm. The move marks his return to management following the end of his Kerry tenure in 2021.

Photo: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile.

THE WEEK IN PICTURES

TOP PLAYER: At the presentation of the Killarney Medal & Trophy Centre Club Matchplay Championship trophy in the Ross Golf Club are Donie Broderick, Tom Tobin and Aidan O'Connor.

HERO: Rathmore's hero goalkeeper Kenneth O'Keffee with parents Diarmuid and Sheila at the team's homecoming party. Photo: Séamus Healy.

GEEHA: The Mastergeeha U14 team who defeated Tralee Dynamos at Mounthawk Park.

LAUNCH: Lidl ambassadors Shauna Howley of Mayo, Emma Duggan of Meath, Ally Cahill of Cavan and Síofra O'Shea of Kerry at the launch of the 2023 Lidl Ladies National Football Leagues. Photo: David Fitzgerald/Sportsfile.

ALL SMILES: Rathmore player Mike Joe Kelliher with his mother Marie; Maureen and Karen Healy; and Leo and Allie Mai Kelliher.

A COLD WELCOME: With snow falling all around him, Rathmore captain Mark Ryan is carried shoulder high by his teammates after the squad returned home after winning the All-Ireland final. Photo: Séamus Healy.

ROSS GOLF CLUB: Ryan McCarthy received a trophy to mark his hole in one.

Killarney Athletic

300 CLUB DRAW: 300 Club is open to new members for 2023. The draw takes place each month - with 6 winners every month - €1000 in prizes each month. If anyone is interested in entering this draw they can log in to Clubforce or contact Mike 087 2226185/Martin 083 1229008 or any member of Killarney Athletic AFC.

KDL PREMIER A: Killarney Athletic 2-0 Tralee Dynamos (Matthew Horgan, Shane Lynch). Our As traveled over to Tralee to play Dynamos in the KDL grounds on a wet and wild Wednesday night. Athletic played into the wind for the first half but didn't let it affect their game too much. With our midfield three of Donal Kelliher, Dara O’Shea and Roko Rujevcan working hard stopping Dynamos from playing through the middle, Dynamos had to go long this aloud us to have plenty of the ball to which Matthew Horgan and Eoin Moynihan used to great affect down the right wing on a number of occasions. This came to fruit in the 38 min of play when good work by Eoin to beat two players and play in Matthew who finished with a brilliant shot to establish himself as our top scorer for the season so far. Dynamos chances came by way of corners and free kicks to which Gary Sugrue dealt with excellently. Roko was unlucky not to double our lead before half time when he tried to capitalise on a mistake at the back leaving him one on one with the keeper but was disappointed to see his shot just go over from just outside the box. Second half saw Athletic control the game keeping Dynamos pinned in their own half and not getting an attempt at goal. With the wind and rain making it difficult to play ball over the top and Dynamos defending in numbers we had to have patience and make the most of what chances came our way. We should of had a goal in the 60 min from a corner when Jack Cooper capitalised on the keeper failing to clear the ball only for a foul to be given to everyone's amazement. Both teams made subs with Shane Lynch making his season debut scoring within 5 mins of coming on to secure the points and keep our unbeaten run going in the league.

U14 DIVISION 1: Killarney Athletic 5 Killorglin 0 (Liam McCarthy, Darragh O’Donoghue).

Killarney Celtic

RESULTS: Premier B - Killarney Celtic B 5 St Brendan's Park 1 (Witness Odirile 2, Terry Sparling 2, Dylan O’Callaghan). Killarney Celtic B 4 Ballyhar Dyn 3 (Terry Sparling, Dylan O’Callaghan, Mikey Moynihan, Adam Grzesiak). U14 Div 1 - Ballyhar Dyn 3 Killarney Celtic B 0. U13 National Cup - Listowel Celtic 6 Killarney Celtic 1 (Kiernan Kelly). U12 Div 2 South - Castleisland D 0 Killarney Celtic

B 6 (Ezio Santos, Robbie Paul O’Sullivan, Richard Ivan, Conor Randles, Adam Arthur, Jack Kissane).

GIRLS: U17 League - Castleisland AFC 0 Killarney Celtic 5 (Aideen O’Brien 2, Ellie Mai Nugent, Grainne Kennedy, Eve Culhane). U16 Premier - St Brendans Park 0 Killarney Celtic 4 (Aine O’Sullivan 2, Clodagh Moriarty, Katie Foster).

Mastergeeha

EXTRAORDINARY GENERAL MEETING: Please be advised that Mastergeeha FC will hold an EGM in the Clubhouse at Kilbrean Park on Monday, January 23 at 8pm.

U14B TEAM: Our U14B team travelled to Tralee trying to get back on winning ways in Round 6 of the league. With a number of players missing, we were going to be under pressure and when we fell 1-0 behind, things were looking bleak! However, driven on by Lucas Lara and Seán Wubehset at the back, we began to get back into the game. With Seán Herlihy gaining a foothold in midfield, we got back on level terms when Briain Maguire ran on to an Adam O’Connor through ball to strike home. The 2nd half saw both sides have periods of possession. We came close through Seán Fleming and then slick passing from Joe O’Connor and Liam Breen almost made it 2. As Dynamos attacked, Hugh Maguire in goals had to be on his toes to keep the locals out. Then, a corner perfectly swung over by Mark Fleming was met at the far post by a Cian O’Rourke rocket of a volley to put us ahead. Dynamos cranked up the pressure but as ever, Neil Thompson was a rock at the heart of the defence to help us get all 3 points. Tralee Dynamos 1-2 Mastergeeha.

LOTTO: There was no winner on Friday, January 13 of the Jackpot for €7,400. Numbers drawn were 1, 11, 22, 26. Consolation prizes of €50 went to Seamus Cooper c/o John Kerins, Ross & Rosie Griffin c/o Post Office, Mncb Parker c/o Martina Lyne, Tim Casey, Glounonea. The next draw will be Friday 20th Jan. for Jackpot of €7,600.

MEK Galaxy

GIRLS: Well done to MEK's U12 Girls Saoirse Teahan, Megan Quigg, Grace Ryan, Elise Brunner and Ava Harty who all played for Kerry in there 3-0 win against Limerick County. They won 3-0, with Elise getting 1 and Ava getting 2. An all MEK score sheet at county level. Well done all. U13 Result - Listowel Celtic 1 MEK 0. An Excellent performance. Very harsh result as we were the better team for large parts of the game. Well done to all. POTM: Izzy Lyons & Alannah Casey.

BOYS: U12 Premier Division - Park 5-1 MEK tried hard bet were outclassed by an outstanding Park team. U12 Division 2 - Mastergeeha 1-4 MEK. A great win for lads goals from Eoin Murphy 3

and Joji Kobelo. U14 Premier Division - Tralee Dynamos 2 MEK 5. A great display by our under 14s. Scorers: Donnacha Lynch, Leo Allen, David O’Shea and 2 by Killian Fitzgerald. MOTM Killian Fitzgerald.

SAVE THE DATE: Our annual Quiz Night will be held on Friday, February 3 in The Golden Nugget Bar and Restaurant. A great night is assured!

Killarney Legion GAA

COACHING OFFICER: Following discussion at committee level for a couple of years the Club Executive has begun the process to identify and recruit a Coaching Development Officer for the Club. With responsibility for amongst other things as training and upskilling of underage coaches, player management and welfare, skill development, health and fitness programmes for underage players it is seen as being a pivotal and crucial step in the future of the Club. The required candidate will have to have the necessary experience but probably most crucially be armed with excellent communication and leadership skills. With the goal that each boy and girl in the club can realise their full potential it is hoped to attract an energetic and dynamic individual. A sub committee in the club has been appointed to oversee the process and it will be headed by Club vice Chairman Liam McGuire. He is joined by Ladies Club Chairperson Ted Healy, Juvenile Management Committee Chair Donal O’Leary, Senior Men's player Jamie O’Sullivan and former Club officer Diarmuid Leen. We wish the sub committee the best of luck in its work. A full description of the role is available to view on our club website at www.legiongaa.com.

CONGRATULATIONS: Well done to both Fossa and Rathmore who emerged victorious from their battles in Croke Park over the weekend. David Clifford was the star turn in Fossa's win over Stewartstown while Shane Ryan led the way for Rathmore in their Intermediate win over Galbally Pearses.

CROKE PARK TRIBUTE: The latest addition to the Press Box in Croke Park is a photographic tribute to one of our own the late Weeshie Fogarty. Pictured deep in conversation with former Kerry Captain Darran O’Sullivan after a match, it captures his unique style of interviewing. It is great and fitting to see our National GAA headquarters recognising the legendary figure that was Weeshie.

Spa GAA

AGM takes place at the clubhouse on Tuesday, January 24 at 7.30pm. Motions & nominations to Secretary on or before Friday, January 20 (secretary. spa.kerry@gaa.ie/085 8414804).

IRELAND LIGHTS UP returns on Wednesday evenings between 6-8pm. Everyone welcome & please sign in at

the registration desk on the night before beginning your walk.

CAIRDE SPA DRAW: The countdown is on for the Cairde Spa draw on Thursday, February 2! Tickets can be collected/returned at the Spa GAA clubhouse this Saturday between 10.30am–12 noon or next Monday between 7-8pm. Any queries please contact Andy (087 2236754), Michael (085 8213027), Assumpta (087 6779292) or Deirdre (085 1216359). With ongoing work at the club grounds and future development plans in progress, the draw is a one-off fundraiser and there are 10 amazing prizes up for grabs.

SCÓR: Any club member under 17 on 1st Jan 2023 is eligible to participate in Scór na nÓg while club members in primary school are eligible to participate in Scór na bPaistí. If anyone is interested in participating please contact Scor Officer Eileen Aherne on 0879940594 by Friday, Jan 27.

LOTTO: No winner and next week’s jackpot is €4,000.

2023 REGISTRATION is open on spagaa.com. Membership rates remain the same as last year and a reminder that all players/competitors MUST register before they can train or compete with the club.

CONGRATULATIONS to Rathmore and Fossa on their All-Ireland Club Championship victories.

CONDOLENCES to the Cahill and O’Donnell families on the passing of Kathleen O'Donnell RIP, Limerick. May she Rest in Peace.

Dr Crokes GAA

AGM: Our Annual General Meeting will take place in the clubhouse on Thursday, January 19 at 7.30pm.

HEALTHY CLUB: A safe and social walking group will take place every Tuesday and Thursdays from 7.30pm in Dr Crokes GAA Grounds. Invite friends to join you on this healthy walk and social chat. This walk is open to all non Dr Crokes members too.

ACADEMY: Dr Crokes Academy are currently seeking coaches for the coming year, particularly for our under 6 age group. No previous coaching experience is necessary. If you have a child who is currently in the academy, or will be joining in the coming year, and you are interested in getting involved, please contact Kevin at 087 6543005.

LOTTO: December 16. Numbers drawn were 6, 11, 12, 18. Jackpot not won. 13 patrons matched 3 numbers and receive €35 each. Jackpot for draw on January 23 will be €15,500. We are calling on all members to support our weekly lotto as this represents one of the main sources of revenue for the club.

DR CROKES SHOP: You can shop worldwide on our online shop.

BINGO: Dr Crokes Bingo continues

every Sunday night in St Marys Parish Hall at 8pm. Doors open at 6.45. This week’s jackpot is worth a whopping €1,700 with another €1,650 in prizes to be won in 10 games of bingo. Everyone Welcome.

PROGRESSIVE 31: Continues every Wednesday at 8pm. Bring €5 and a partner. All welcome.

MOTHERS & OTHERS continues every Monday at 6.30pm.

NOTES: If anyone has anything they want to add to our club notes please email pro.drcrokes.kerry@gaa.ie.

CONGRATULATIONS to Rathmore and Fossa on their All-Ireland wins over the weekend.

NEW ARRIVALS: Congratulations to brothers Shane and Aidan Lyne on the recent births of their babies.

SYMPATHY to the McGuillycuddy family on the recent passing of John. Ar Dheis Dé go raibh a anam.

Glenflesk GAA

AGM: Our AGM took place last Monday and we would like to thank everyone who attended. Thanks and well done to outgoing officers Tim Murphy, James Furlong and Mary McCarrick. We wish the best of luck to our new officers for the coming year, Chairman - Jerry Mullane, Assistant Chairman - Derry Healy, Treasurer - Donal Brosnan, Assistant Treasurer - Cathy Somers, RegistrarDonal O’Sullivan.

LOTTO: There was no winner of the Glenflesk Lotto which took place on January 8 in Glenflesk Hall. Jackpot was €10,400. The numbers drawn were 2, 5, 10, 19. Consolation prizes of €50 each to: TJ Moynihan, Carrigeen. Corner Bar (Sellers’ Prize). Pádraig O’Sullivan, Clonkeen. Noelle Murphy, Readrinagh, Headford (Yearly Ticket). Next draw will take place in Glenflesk Hall on Jan 23. Jackpot will be €10,500. Lotto tickets including annual tickets can be bought from our ticket sellers, in local pubs and shops or online before 6pm on the date of the draw via Clubforce. Thank you to all who support our Lotto and to our sellers.

NATIONAL CLUB DRAW 2023: The National Club Draw has super prizes varying from a Dacia Duster Car, a number of All Ireland Football and Hurling Final Packages and a cash prize of €2,000. All of the proceeds from the tickets sold by the Club are retained by the Club for the running of juvenile and adult teams. Ticket sales will close at the end of Jan 23. Tickets at €10 each are available and can be purchased online via Clubforce.

IRELAND LIGHTS UP: Glenflesk GAA will continue the 'Ireland Lights Up' initiative every Monday and Wednesday evenings beginning at 6.30pm. There will be two options, walkers will hit the track in Glenflesk GAA pitch and the runners will hit the track in the Barraduff Community Field for the couch to 5km. All levels will be catered for. Reg-

istration will begin at Glenflesk GAA Hall at 6.10pm and you will be given your recording sheet and have the option of a private weigh in and blood pressure check with a healthcare professional. We ask for a €2 per family donation (€1 towards the flood lights and €1 towards a new club defibrillator). You can download the mylife app to keep track of your progress and the operation transformation app if you want to keep track of the leaders, recipies and exercise tips. We hope to see you all Monday night to light up two tracks in the community and kick start the 8 week programme. So get the gear ready and bring the family or a friend along for the bit of fitness and craic. Any enquiries contact Pádraig 087 0530384.

Kilcummin GAA

IRELAND LIGHTS UP returned at Kilcummin GAA Walking Track on January 11. The aim is to make exercise more accessible on the dark winter nights and to offer anyone in our local community an opportunity to get together and socialise in a healthy way. So spread the word, this is open to everyone, Club Membership is not required but each participant must register each night for insurance purposes and adhere to Health and Safety Guidelines issued at registration. Registration will take place each Monday and Wednesday night in the reception area of the Gym between 7pm & 8pm. Please note that only therapy dogs or guide dogs are permitted on the Club grounds.

CONGRATULATIONS to Rathmore on their All- Ireland Intermediate title and Fossa on their Junior victory.

GYM MEMBERSHIP is available. Contact John on 087 6168449.

PINK NIGHT: Well done to the Ladies committee on their successful charity fund raiser on January 6. They raised

over €5000 for Comfort for Chemo.

Listry GAA

DEEPEST SYMPATHY: Listry GAA are deeply saddened on passing of our vice president Mike Mannix RIP. Deepest Sympathy to The Mannix family, friends and neighbours. Mike looked after our pitch with great pride and was a loyal supporter at games near and far.

ALL-IRELAND: Congratulations to Fossa and Rathmore 2022 AIB All-Ireland Club Junior/Intermediate Football Champions.

LOTTO: Numbers drawn 13, 16, 20, 21. €100 Colm O'Leary, Faha. €50 x 2 Mary McCarthy, Duart. Chris Horan, Lisheen. €25 x 2 May O'Driscoll, Ballymalis. Eoghan Darmody, Muckross. Next Sunday Jackpot €8,850.

31 CARD DRIVE: A huge thank you to everyone for their fantastic support for our fundraiser 31card drive for Kerry Cork Cancer Bus. We raised €1170 for the charity. To all who sponsored prizes and spots, to all the people that played. To Marian, Norma, Noel and to Sean O’Mahoney and family, Faha Court Bar for hosting the event as well as being a sponsor. A huge thanks to everybody.

IRELAND LIGHTS UP: Listry GAA Club are turning on floodlights for our walking track to enable locals to come together to walk and talk in a safe environment during the long dark evenings of winter every Wednesday from 6pm to 9pm until February 15 in partnership with Ireland Lights Up. Please come along.

LFGA KERRY U14: Congratulations to our Listry ladies, Louise O'Donoghue, Eilis Tangney and Ellen Allman who been selected for Kerry U14 panel.

SIGERSON CUP 2023: The Sigerson Cup Round 1 got underway last week, Best of Luck to Listry players involved, Rónán Buckley UCD, Arron O'Shea MTU

Cork, Ruairi Murphy UCC.

ALLIANZ FOOTBALL LEAGUE: Best of Luck to Kerry travelling to Donegal in the 2023 Allianz Football League, Division 1 Round 1 on Sunday 29th at 2pm.

East Kerry GAA

CONGRATULATIONS to Dermet Weeshie Lynch of Annascaul new PRO of Munster Council from everybody in East Kerry GAA.

EAST KERRY ALL-STARS: Gala night Thursday, February 2 at Gleneagle Hotel. Tickets £35. Available form clubs & board officers and Killarney Heights Hotel. Sponsored by kerryman & Aquila Club

EAST KERRY GAA CONVENTION on Tuesday, February 7 at Killarney Heights Hotel at 8pm. Mass at 7.30. ALL-IRELAND: Two fantastic games on Sunday last in Croke Park. Congratulations to both teams on their All-Ireland success. Rathmore & Fossa.

Beaufort GAA

LOTTO: The next draw for a jackpot of €11,400 will be on Sunday, 22nd January 2023. Tickets are €2 each or 3 for €5 and are available from usual sellers, shops, public houses and online at www.beaufortgaa.com. Thank you to everybody who support the lotto.

CONGRATULATIONS to Fossa and Rathmore on their All-Ireland Club Junior and Intermediate Club All Ireland final wins last weekend.

CLUB DEVELOPMENT: Beaufort GAA Club are embarking in a Club Development in the form of an All-Weather Playing pitch and are holding a fundraising draw. First prize will be a Ford Focus car and there will also be cash prizes. Tickets are €25 each, 3 for €60 and are available from local sellers, shops, and public houses and online at beaufortgaa.com. Please contact the Club at 087 9975737 for more information.

SPORTS PREDICTION QUIZ: The 2022 Sports Prediction Quiz results are as follows: Noel Spillane, Coolmagort 114 points. Micheál Foley, Cullina Park 98 points. Gerard Foley, Tullig 96 points. Ronan Ferris, Gap of Dunloe 95 points. Paudie Lynch, Beaufort 94 points. Thank you to everybody who took part in the quiz and all the sellers.

IRELAND LIGHTS UP: Ireland Lights Up in partnership with Operation Transformation starts this week on Tuesdays and Fridays from 6.30pm to 8.30pm in GAA field. Everybody must sign in before walking.

WALKING CHALLENGE: Thank you to everybody who signed up for Healthy Club Irish Life ‘Every Step Counts’ Walking Challenge. It will continue until February 15. There will be a draw for O’Neills gear vouchers for every club who completes 4,000km between now and February 15.

SOCCER: The Killarney Celtic U12B squad who had a big win against Castleisland D.

SPORT NOTES

Milltown/Castlemaine GAA

LOTTO: Sponsored by Almas Takeaway, Milltown. The fortnightly club lotto draw took place on Monday, January 9 at the club grounds. There was no jackpot or match 3 winner on this occasion. The numbers drawn were 20, 27, 29 and the bonus ball was 3. Lucky Dip winners were as follows: €50 - Dan Cronin, €50 - Mike Moriarty, €25 - Caroline Hallissey, €25 - Dan Daly, €25Ted McCarthy, €25 - Bernie O'Sullivan. Our next club lotto draw is scheduled to take place on Monday, January 23 at 8pm in the Clubhouse where the jackpot will be €13,000. Get your draw tickets or renew your yearly tickets online on Clubforce or get your tickets for the next draw from all the usual local outlets. Mile búiochas do gach duine for playing Milltown/Castlemaine Clubs Fortnightly Fundraiser, the money raised is vital to the day to day running of our club and your support is sincerely appreciated.

AGM: Our club will hold its Annual General Meeting on Friday, January 27 at 7pm in Paddy Burke Memorial Park, Milltown.

CLOTHES RECYCLING COLLECTION: Our clothing recycling collection is now happening so we urge you to clean out your wardrobes of all unwanted clothes, sheets, blankets, towels, curtains, shoes etc and drop them to the Paddy Burke Memorial Park in Milltown. This is a wonderful way of doing your bit for the environment and raising much needed funds for our club at the same time.

CONGRATULATIONS: Congratulations to Fossa and Rathmore on their victories Sunday afternoon in the AIB All-Ireland Junior and Intermediate Club Football Finals at Croke Park. Special mention to one of our own clubs under 8 coaches, Derry O'Sullivan who was part of the Fossa management team.

CLUB MERCHANDISE & CLUB SHOP: Milltown/Castlemaine GAA club gear and merchandise is now available to buy online from both the Club Shop and direct from O’Neills. The Club Shop contains details of the large amount of branded Milltown-Castlemaine & Kerry stock we have available within the club, for immediate delivery. If you cannot find what you are looking for in the club store, then club gear is also available to purchase online in our dedicated O’Neills club shop. This site has everything from jerseys to playing gear to wet gear for supporters.

CLUB NOTES: If you have any items for inclusion in the weekly notes, then please contact the club's PRO Dara O'Connor on 086 268 8674 before 8pm on Sundays.

Deerpark Pitch & Putt Club

AGM: Thanks to everyone who attended our AGM on Monday night in the Kil-

larney Avenue Hotel as we got our 50th Anniversary year officially underway. We want to officially thank outgoing Secretary Fiona O'Donnell for her work in the role over the last eight years as well as our other outgoing officers John McGrath, Kieran Fitzpatrick and Aidan O'Donoghue for their time on the Committee. We welcome Margaret B Looney back as Club Secretary for the first time since 2007 and also welcome Margaret C Looney back to the Committee and welcome Dan Kiely to the Committee for the first time. 2023 Committee: President: Kay O’Sullivan, Vice President: TBC, Chairman: Damien Fleming, Vice Chairman: Sean Kelly, Secretary: Margaret B Looney, Registrar: Danny Looney, Treasurer: Colm O'Dowd, Assistant Treasurer: Noel Moynihan, PRO: Jason O'Connor, Competition Secretaries: TBC, U16 Officers: Derry McCarthy & Gearoid Cronin, Non-Portfolio: Aidan O'Keeffe & Dan Kiely and Grounds Committee Chairman: Ger O'Connor. SUNDAY DRAWS: Two Ball ScrambleFirst Nett: Daniel Kelly & Bobby Kelly 28½, Gross: Noel Moynihan & Robbie O'Brien Snr 42 and Second Nett: Declan Kelly & Betty O'Brien 33. Same again this Sunday at 9am and 10.45am.

Killarney Valley AC

INDOOR: The U20/U23 National Indoor Track & Field Championships were held in Dublin at the weekend. Well done to Ciara Kennelly who came 1st in the U23 High Jump with a leap of 1.74m. Jason O’Reilly came 2nd in his heat in the U20 400m with a PB of 50.18sec. Tadgh Galvin came 3rd in his heat of the U20 400m also with a PB of 52.33sec. Oisin Lynch won his heat in the U20 800m and came 6th in the final with an indoor PB of 1.57.47. Jack O’Leary finished 5th in his heat of the U23 800m in 2.02.74. Sam Griffin bounced back from injury to make the U20 Long Jump Final finishing 7th.

INFO: All information on Training Schedules and How to Join etc. are on our website killarneyvalleyac.ie.

Killarney Cougars

KERRY AIRPORT CUP/PLATE: U18 Girls - Killarney Cougars 31 Chorca Dhuibhne 42. The Cougars hosted the Dingle girls who led for most of the game but the Cougars tied the game in the last quarter. Best for Cougars: Thi Que Kennedy, Olivia Gaffey and Alison Butler. U18 Boys - Killarney Cougars 53 St Colmans 48. The Cougars and St Colman's played an exciting Cup semi-final at the Pres Gym. The Cougars were in top form throughout but had to withstand a great comeback by the visitors to secure the win and a place in the final v St Bridget's Currow. Strong performances for the Cougars from Marks Leon, Finn Kennelly and Nathan Cox.

NATIONAL LEAGUE DIV 1: Ulster University 82 Killarney Cougars 48. Killarney Cougars made the journey North early on Saturday morning to Belfast to face in form Ulster University at the Jordanstown Sports Campus with the home side leading throughout securing the points with a comfortable winning margin despite a spirited performance by the Cougars. The home side were quickly into their stride to lead 16-4 with Corkman Conor O'Sullivan and Adam Ryan on target with some great three pointers to lead 26-13. A strong response by the Cougars in the second quarter with early baskets by Jack Lynch Esebio Strijdhaftig and Alex Fleming saw Cougars trailing 40-30. The home side by a big response to the Cougars comeback and dominated the third quarter to take a firm grip of the game with a spread of scores throughout the team they pulled away by the end of the third 66-38 with OSullivan and Ryan again in good shooting form doing the damage . The Cougars defense were working overtime to con-

tain Ulster but could make little impact on the score board as the home side finished with a burst of scoring in the closing minutes to finish comfortable winners, they contest the President s Cup Final in National Basketball Arena next Saturday. A difficult game for Coach Patrick O'Regan young Cougars team, travelling with some regulars unavailable, but the side continue to show good character to battle until the final buzzer with good performances on this occasion from Esebio Strijdhaftig, Jack Lynch and Nathan Cox. The Cougars welcome Dublin side Malahide to Killarney next Saturday night at the Presentation Gym.

Kilcummin

KILCUMMIN COMHALTAS: Closing date for branch membership is Wed, January 25 for anyone wishing to participate in any Comhaltas competitions this year, or in supporting Kilcummin CCÉ for 2023. Forms available at Rural Dev Office.

MUSIC & SINGING CLASSES: Following on from the success of our Children’s Choir on Christmas Eve under the direction of Sinéad Carroll, Kilcummin CCÉ group singing and music classes have commenced in Kilcummin NS. Singing classes 3.20pm–3.50pm; Music classes 4pm–4.30pm. Term of 5 weeks costs €37.50, discount available for siblings. For more information contact Geraldine on 087 6764368.

SÚLT NA NÓG: Súlt na nÓg competitions will take place on the weekend of March 4/5. Entry forms for musicians and singers are available in the Rural Development Office and must be returned by Monday, January 30 at 12 noon.

ADULT LADIES SET DANCING: Adult Ladies Set Dancing will resume on Monday, January 23 for 10 weeks from 8.15pm–9.15pm in Kilcummin Recreational Hall. Set dancing has proved to be a great way to get fit while making new friends and a guaranteed great night out. To register, please contact Mary on 087 9620135 before Friday, January 20.

JUNIOR SET DANCING CLASSES: Junior Set Dancing Classes will commence on Friday, January 20 in the Recreational Hall. Children from 5 years upwards are welcome. Beginners and intermediate 7pm to 8pm and advanced dancers 8pm to 9pm. For further information contact Mary on 087 9620135.

LITTER PICKING: Keeping our roads free of litter is a huge effort from all involved as it is an everyday occurrence. CE participants are currently collecting litter. If you would like to volunteer to keep the roadside free of litter within close proximity to your home it would be of great help. Bags are available and can be returned to the Rural Development Office. For more information contact Helen on 089 4756774.

LGFA: Carla Rowe of Dublin and Síofra O'Shea of Kerry at the launch of the 2023 Lidl Ladies National Football Leagues. Photo: David Fitzgerald/Sportsfile.

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