KILLARNEY ADVERTISER 27 JANUARY 2023

QQI LEVEL 5 & 6 SPECIAL NEEDS ASSISTANT

Available at Tralee Education Centre

Starting Wednesday 8th February

Why choose this course?

During this course, you will learn about development and learning in children with special needs and about the role of an SNA You will learn about child development and behaviour theories

Starts 8th February, 20 Weeks, 1 evening per week

I am delighted to announce the start of a new program at Studio 7 Fitness, aimed at the older adult close to or post retirement age with a focus on strength, mobility and posture

This Program Helps:

A Killarney man who finished third in one of the world’s most-difficult adventure races has not ruled out another attempt in an effort to win it.

| By Sean Moriarty

The Spine Race is a non-stop 431km course over mountains and moors in the North of England.

Lissivigeen man Joe O’Leary was given one week to complete the gruelling course but managed to complete it in half that time in 96 hours and 50 minutes to finish third overall - or four days and 50 minutes!

He ran almost non-stop through ice, knee-deep snow and a wind-chill factor of -15.

He survived on a total of 90 minutes sleep taken at short intervals at various way-points along the route.

Joe is no strange to adventure racing. In September 2019 he ran for 28-hours straight to finish the Ultra-Trail du MontBlanc, a 160km race in the French Alps. This time last year he finished third in the shorter Montane Spine Challenger Race. On that occasion he completed the 173kms course in 30 hours but this year he returned to compete in the harder 431km event where his competition included professional athletes.

CHALLENGE

Joe and his fellow competitors set off from the start in Edale in the heart of England’s Peak District at 8am on Sunday, January 14.

No stopping Joe as he reaches third in the world

there are a few ‘approved’ private houses along the way that offer hot drinks and small meals.

Even bringing supporters is frowned upon – if a fan cheers for one racer they must cheer for all the racers – otherwise it is seen as unfair.

“This was my first time doing the long race,” he told the Killarney Advertiser.

“It was fantastic but totally unexpected to be on the podium. It was a strong field and first and second were pros…this is their job.”

Starting out in pouring rain the conditions soon turned to ice, snow and eventually waist-deep snow.

Volunteers fed competitors in scout halls or similar along the route and it was places like this Joe grabbed some shut eye –but not much.

Nearly one hundred hours later, just before 9am on Thursday morning (January 15), he crossed the finish line in Kirk Yetholm, a small village just over the Scottish border.

Along the way he was obliged to visit cer-

Bean in Killarney to cease trading due to rising costs

| By Sean Moriarty

A Plunkett St coffee shop has been forced to shut its doors due to the soaring costs of doing business.

Bean in Killarney opened in late January 2021.

Last March it was named as one of the 'Financial Times' list of 'Best Independent Coffee Shops in the World'.

It was just one of 30 coffee shops worldwide - and one of only two in Ireland - to make the list, which includes entries from world cities like Paris, London and Sydney.

Bean in Killarney is a sister café to Bean in Dingle which was set up by brothers Justin and Luke Burgess.

The local branch was managed by brothers Joey and Euan Boland, who are also

from Dingle.

It was a popular coffee stop for locals and visitors alike but despite its popularity and accolades, the business could not survive the current economic climate.

“After two great years we have made the really tough decision to close Bean in Killarney,” said a company statement.

“We opened during the height of the lockdown with the hope that when all restrictions came to an end, the shop would kick off like the Dingle one did.

“However, 2022 brought about new challenges and unfortunately ended up being harder rather than easier. We are a family-run business and rapidly rising costs meant we traded less than we did during 2021’s numerous restrictions. We had hoped to ride out the storm, but it’s not possible to continue operating at a loss.”

tain way-points or time controls and here he was able to change into fresh clothes, eat a dinner (or two) and grab a few minutes sleep before re-joining the course. Outside assistance is strictly forbidden, and apart from the official checkpoints

“They really look after you. If you wanted two or three dinners to keep you going you could have them,” he said. “The problem is the clock does not stop. And the more time you spend at way points the more it will effect your results.”

Joe has no immediate plans but intends to visit Australia in May for a well earned holiday.

“I have entered a race in Sydney!” he added.

NON-STOP: Joe O'Leary experienced every conditions possible during the 268mile non-stop Spine Race in England last week.

BETTER TIMES: Brothers Joey and Euan Boland, photographed in better times, celebrating after Bean in Killarney was named by the Financial Times as one of the best coffee shops in the world. Photo: Sean Moriarty

“IT’S THE MOST JOYFUL SHOW I’VE SEEN ALL YEAR, BAR NUN”

- IRISH INDEPENDENT

FRI 3RD FEB

THE FUREYS TICKETS FROM €35.75

LIMITED TICKETS

SUN 5TH FEB THE TUMBLING PADDIES TICKETS FROM €22.90

MON 6TH FEB ONE NIGHT OF ADELE TICKETS FROM €27.90

FRI 10TH FEB THE MARTY PARTY TICKETS FROM €30.00

LIMITED TICKETS

SUN 19TH FEB CONOR SKETCHES TICKETS FROM €33.50

FRI 24TH FEB

PAUL HEATON & JACQUI ABBOTT TICKETS FROM €39.05

FRI 24TH FEB

GATHERING FESTIVAL CLUB TALISK & MEC LIR TICKETS FROM €22.90

NEXT WEEK!

TUE 31ST JAN TO FRI 4TH FEB

SAT 25TH FEB SEAN KEANE TICKETS FROM €30.00

SAT 25TH FEB

GATHERING FESTIVAL CLUB ÍMAR & KINNARIS QUINTET TICKETS FROM €22.90

FRI 3RD MAR TOMMY FLEMING TICKETS FROM €30.00

SAT 4TH MAR MIKE DENVER & GUESTS TICKETS FROM €35.00

SUN 5TH MAR JOANNE MCNALLY TICKETS FROM €27.90

THUR 16TH MAR DERMOT WHELAN MIND FULL TICKETS FROM €36.75

FRI 17TH MAR

MARIO ROSENSTOCK GIFT GRUB LIVE TICKETS FROM €39.00

FEB 22ND TO FEB 26TH

Ghost hunter's video goes viral

They have a love of things that go bump in the night - and it seems the public do too - as a Killarney man's ghost hunting video has gone viral.

| By Michelle Crean

PJ O'Sullivan from Púca Vogue Paranormal Ireland and his ghost busting team posted a video online around Christmas time, but it was only over the last two weeks that it went viral - clocking up 1.9 million views and over 2k likes on Facebook.

"We were naturally shocked ourselves at this," PJ, who is originally from Gneeveguilla but lives in St Mary's Terrace in town, told the Killarney Advertiser. The video was taken in Redwood Castle in, Lorrha, Co Tipperary in October when the Irish paranormal investigator invited like-minded people to the location for Hallowe'en.

PJ, who has been a paranormal investigator for over 15 years, set up Púca Vogue Paranormal Ireland three years ago and works alongside his son Leo and his part-

ner Eva Walsh.

In the clip, Eva and Liz Kelleher are in the background with singer/songwriter Rebecca McRedmond front and centre.

"On the night we had a total of 10 people in the castle for the lockdown investigation including our own Rory Murphy and Veronika Slomiany," he said.

"It was filmed on the ground floor inside the main entrance area. It was a Hallowe'en paranormal investigation where we had guests including Damien O'Rourke from Cuppa Tea TV.

"We were investigating the ground floor. It was filmed in total darkness and Rebecca had felt a touch as we started and shortly in this clip she felt another touch at her leg. Eva had also commented the room had now felt tense, so on review of the footage we can see what we believe is her dress floating outward, and on inspection both her ankles show her feet

Strange text messages from America to Legion GAA

Legion GAA officers have asked members and supporters to ignore a series of text messages that are being sent to the club from an American mobile number.

The detailed message looks like it originated within the club management committee.

The message outlines a series of plans for the club for the year ahead and to the untrained eye would look like a genuine club text.

While there is nothing malicious in the message, its reach has caused a little concern from club officers.

The first message was ignored by a club committee member but the same mes-

sage was then sent to various club players and managers. It even found its way to the phone of a Tralee-based former Kerry footballer.

Unlike similar text messaging scams, this message does not ask for money or bank details.

However, as it is designed to look like an official club text it has caused a concerns within senior club ranks.

“We are trying to find a source of the message through the relevant authorities,” club PRO Enda Walshe told the Killarney Advertiser.

“I think it is only a prankster at work and its best to ignore the messages but we had to take action when many more members and non-members started getting the messages too.”

were on the ground; there was no drafts, and it tied in with the experience so we shared that clip."

He added that they share clips from investigations but let people decide for themselves what it is that they see.

"We share what we believe we capture and this is just a few minutes as a part of the whole night as we investigate the castle over all floors usually from around 9.30pm to 4am with breaks and we have up to five cameras recording in 50 minute segments continuously which we download after for review. But as you can imagine with full-time jobs and life it takes time to review all the footage so we mix what we do with pictures and sites of

interest. We are non-profit on all events. We had done Leap Castle the previous night, this is claimed as Ireland's most haunted castle and again shared the experience, but this is the reel that just took off on Facebook which has us surprised, but we are all very proud of Púca Vogue Paranormal.

"This is not our first capture from this castle as we have previously shared on our social media, we experienced more on the night which we will share at future dates."

To see the video go to their Facebook page: Púca Vogue Paranormal Investigations.

First camogie team launched at St Brigid’s

St Brigid’s Secondary School in Killarney has launched the school’s first ever camogie team.

The new team had its first training session on Wednesday of this week and 30 students from the school turned up. The team got kitted out Friday in their new gear including hurleys, sliotars, and helmets, made possible by the sponsorship from the Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle.

Coaches Claudia O’Donoghue, a former underage county player with Cork and

Conor O’Keeffe, a member of the Kerry Senior hurling panel, are leading the new project at the school.

This year the team hopes to compete in local challenge matches against other camogie schools like Causeway and Mounthawk Tralee ahead of entering a Munster Schools’ Championship next season.

“30 signed up on the first day but we have a few more interested that could not make it,” Conor told the Killarney Advertiser.

“It is great having Claudia on board, playing county camogie for Cork is not easy and she will be a role model for the girls.”

VIRAL: A video from the Púca Vogue Paranormal Investigations team (pictured) has gone viral online. Front from left: Veronika Slomiany and Eva Walsh. Back from left: Rory Murphy, Leo O'Sullivan and PJ O'Sullivan.

NEW SPORT: The new camogie team in St Brigid's has received backing from the Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle's funds.

| By Sean Moriarty

| By Sean Moriarty

T OWN TALK

Last chance to enter Spa GAA’s fundraising draw

There is just less than one week left to enter Spa GAA’s fundraising raffle.

| By Sean Moriarty

The ‘Cairde Spa’ draw takes place on Thursday night (February 2) the Spa’s clubhouse at 7pm.

Funds raised will go towards the upgrade and development works planned over the next few years.

Guest of honour on the night is national GAA president Larry McCarthy and the Sam Maguire Cup will make an appearance too.

“Apart from ongoing and essential main-

tenance work, the club has a number of development projects in the pipeline. The money is being raised towards improving our grounds to provide top class facilities that can be used year-round, including car parking, perimeter fencing for pitches, ladies and juveniles dressing rooms, outdoor skills wall, player dug outs for senior and juvenile pitches, safety enhancements and lighting on the walking track, landscaping, scoreboard, viewing gallery to the sports hall, alignment of entrance to the grounds and

Arbutus furniture to feature on RTÉ's Nationwide

| By Sean Moriarty

A Killarney furniture restorer’s work will feature on RTÉ’s ‘Nationwide’ for the second time.

Since James Flynn retired from the ESB, he has devoted his time to tracing the history of Killarney’s Arbutus furniture industry.

He restores pieces that he finds in online auctions all over the world.

The Arbutus Tree, sometimes called the Killarney Strawberry Tree, is more prevalent in Killarney National Park than any other region in the country.

In October 2020, the Ross Road man discovered a games table for sale in Boston. The rare piece of handcrafted furniture that dates from just after the famine era, was returned to Killarney in March 2021 by Mr Flynn.

In June last year Mr Flynn and his furniture collection featured on Nationwide and tonight (Friday) his segment on the Arbutus furniture industry will get a sec-

(Friday).

ond airing.

“RTÉ Nationwide contacted me to say they are giving the Nationwide programme on the Killarney Arbutus Furniture a repeat showing,” he told the Killarney Advertiser.

“It really highlights the world famous industry that was in 1800s and up to 1952.”

The programme will be broadcast at 7pm tonight, and will feature handcrafters from all over Ireland. This will include around seven minutes with James."

a remembrance garden,” said Michael Cronin, Club Chairman. “We are calling on everyone to get behind the fundraiser. Our vision is to provide top class grounds and facilities where everyone is welcome to use and participate fully in our activities, games and culture. In order to achieve this vision, we are setting out exciting new developments and investments in our facilitiesand we need your support.”

There are 10 prizes up for grabs: 1st Prize: €15,000, 2nd Prize: €3,000, 3rd Prize: €2,000, 4th Prize: €1,000, 5th Prize: Two nights dinner and B&B at the Killarney Park Hotel, 6th Prize: €500 Vouch-

er for Killarney Carpets & Furniture, 7th Prize: €300 Voucher for O’Sullivan’s Cycles, 8th Prize: €250 Voucher for Killarney Oils, 9th Prize: €150 Voucher for Killarney Hardware and 10th Prize: A signed Kerry jersey.

Tickets are €100 each and can be collected/returned at the clubhouse this Saturday (10.30am-12noon), Monday (7-8pm) or Wednesday (7-8pm), and tickets are also available online on spagaa.com.

Any queries contact Andy (087 2236754), Michael (085 8213027), Assumpta (087 6779292) or Deirdre (085 1216359) or any Club Officers.

SPONSORS: Cairde Spa draw sponsors Ronan O'Sullivan (Killarney Carpet and Furniture Centre), Ger Warren (Killarney Hardware), Assumpta O'Donoghue (Killarney Oils), Luke Quinn (Kerry GAA Store) with Spa GAA Club Officers Deirdre O'Sullivan Darcy, Andy O'Sullivan and Conor Gleeson.

SCHOLARSHIP: Pictured at St Brigid's Presentation Convent with their certificates having received a UCC Quercus Entrance Scholarship for 2022/2023, from l-r were: Sarah McGrath and Alicia Burke, who were exceptionally high achievers in their Leaving Cert last year. Photo: Marie Carroll-O'Sullivan.

MASTER CRAFTSMAN: James Flynn who restores Killarney-made Arbutus furniture, will feature on RTÉ tonight

Time for Tamika to showcase her talents at national level

Tamika Heaphy's thoughts on health and prosperity helped her to secure a place in a national final.

On Saturday, the Fifth Year student from Killarney Community College, earned herself a place in the national final of the Soroptimist International Girl’s Public Speaking Competition in Cork.

Soroptimist International is a global volunteer movement working together to transform the lives of women and girls with nearly 72,000 members in 121 countries. In Ireland, there are 15 clubs that work at a local, national and international level to educate, empower and enable women and girls to reach their potential.

The Soroptimist Ireland Girls’ Public Speaking Competition has been running for over 40 years. The competition is a three-stage event with local and regional competitions leading to a national final. The competition encourages girls to develop the skills to speak effectively and articulately with clarity and conviction. This enables them to improve their self-confidence and personality which in turn will enhance their career opportunities.

“This has been an amazing experience, public speaking skills are so important," teacher Tara O’Shea said.

"We have always encouraged our students to enter public speaking competitions. As a result of this, our students are well versed and have very strong opinions on many global and social issues so this was the perfect opportunity for students like Tamika to showcase her talents at a national level."

The regional final showcased an array of wonderful speakers who spoke on a va-

riety of topics such as democracy, health, people, human rights, environment and peace. Tamika chose to speak about the topic of health and prosperity where she wowed the adjudicators with her eloquent speech and her fantastic public speaking skills. She competed against five other students and secured first place and an opportunity to compete in the national final.

Teresa Irwin and Sheila Casey from Soroptimist Ireland Killarney added that they "are so proud" of Tamika.

"Her ability to deliver her speech was engaging and educational. It has been great to see a local girl get so far in the competition and to be given an opportunity that empowers women and girls to use their voices and showcase their skills."

The national final will be held in Wexford on March 4 where Tamika will be up against seven other speakers from around Ireland.

If successful she will be invited to speak at the International Conference which will be held in the conference centre in Dublin this year.

"‘This has been a wonderful opportunity for the students in our school," Deputy Principal Eilish O’Leary said.

"The mission of the Soroptimists is to transform the lives and status of women and girls through education, empowerment and enabling opportunities. This competition has already provided Tamika with excellent opportunities to work towards her future career. We wish her all the best in the national final in March."

Betty's record Rapunzel donation

| By Marie Carroll-O’Sullivan

Not content with a hat-trick, Betty O’Farrell went for four in a row on Thursday last as she once again selflessly donated her hair to charity.

I was tipped off by restaurant owner Johnny McGuire, husband of the ever giving Betty O’Farrell, who sat next to the equally charitable Triona O’Shea, at Ruby Tuesdays, as they discussed Betty’s 12 inch quota to suffice the partial make up of one child’s wig through the Rapunzel Foundation in Waterford. Once confirmed, the conversation drifted to Betty and her sister’s recent appearance on TG4 ‘as gaeilge’ ar Cois Mhuire, to that of Triona O’Shea’s daughter Ashten’s up coming appearance on First Dates Ireland in the coming weeks.

Equally supporting the Rapunzel Foundation in Waterford, these ladies are somewhat pros!

Hairdresser at Ruby Tuesdays, Triona, has been offering this service free of charge to the wider community in Killarney for over 20 years now. The requirements are specific in that each plait must be 12 inches between each band, it must be in good condition and not coloured, permed, highlighted, bleached, or dreadlocked. The Rapunzel Foundation gather braids from all over Ireland and ship to New Zealand where the hair is made in to wigs. Depending on the size and density, it will take between five and 25 ponytails to make one hair piece.

“Betty is an amazing lady,” Triona said.

“It’s a new record for me. Betty has

now set the bar at four for the number of times she has donated her hair to the Rapunzel Foundation which is truly amazing. Laura Sheehan, Rathmore is a close second, donating her locks three times to date. People are great!

Betty explained that it has taken between two and two and a half years to grow the 12 inches leaving her with a bob hair style each time.

"I love swimming so it needs to be long enough to tie back," she said.

"I have visited Triona twice on High Street and twice at Ruby Tuesdays. The first time on High Street was with my son Frank, who at the time, also donated 12 inches of his hair to the Rapunzel Foundation,”

Dealing with illness down through the years, I could see how important it was to Betty to donate.

“It might be the last time I donate as I believe grey hair is not acceptable,” Betty laughed.

PUBLIC SPEAKING: From regionals to nationals for Killarney Community College Fifth Year student Tamika Heaphy in the Soroptimist International Girl’s Public Speaking Competition that was held in Cork on Saturday. From l-r: Teacher Tara O'Shea, Past President of Soroptimists Ireland, Killarney's Teresa Irwin, winner Tamika Heaphy and Vice Principal Eilish O'Leary. Photo: Marie Carroll-O'Sullivan

Hairdresser Triona O’Shea is ready to cut Betty O’Farrell's hair for the Rapunzel Foundation. Photo: Marie Carroll-O'Sullivan

Gleneagle voted one of Ireland’s top 10 hotels

The Gleneagle has been voted one of Ireland’s top 10 hotels by the readers of the Irish Independent newspaper.

While news broke over the weekend, celebrations are continuing at the Killarney hotel this week.

“We are over the moon to be included in this prestigious list of top Irish hotels,” says General Manager John Dolan. “It is a testament to the hard work and dedica-

tion of all the team here. We would like to thank our many loyal guests, especially those that took the time to nominate us for the awards.”

“To be named in the top 10 in the same year that Killarney took the overall award for Best Irish Holiday Destination is par-

ticularly special.”

Voters described The Gleneagle as “professional, friendly, good value for money and fab onsite entertainment" adding that it has a "very unique vibe”. The Gleneagle was placed eighth in the list of top 10 hotels with Killarney’s Europe taking the top accolade of Ireland’s Best Hotel. The full list of top 10 hotels in order of appearance is The Europe Killarney, Fitzger-

ald’s Woodlands House in Adare, Adare Manor, Kelly’s Resort Hotel in Wexford, Harvey’s Point in Donegal, Amber Springs in Gorey, Ashford Castle in Mayo, The Gleneagle Hotel, Hotel Woodstock in Ennis and the Monart in Enniscorthy. Nominations for the Reader Travel Awards were open from October 22 to November 20 last year. Readers entered their nominations across many categories including Best Hotel, together with any comments on their picks. Entries were free. Afterwards, the top nominees were tallied and the judging panel adjudicated on the readers' shortlist, choosing the final winners and runners-up from readers’ favourites. The panel of judges included Pól O’Conghaile, Rachel Dugan, Roz Purcell, Katy McGuinness, Francis Brennan, John Brennan and Niall Tracey.

Marian Players excited to get back on stage

| By Michelle Crean

With a cast of over 50 it's no small undertaking - but that won't deter one panto group who are only too happy to get back on stage this weekend.

It's been two years since they staged a show due to COVID but the Marian Players Rathmore are rearing to go tomorrow night (Saturday) with their hilarious show 'Dame Annie Goes West'. A medley of comedy and colour, combined with music and dance, locals from both sides of the border have been working together to make it a great production.

"We're very excited, we can't wait! It's great to be back," Mary Hickey told the Killarney Advertiser.

"They [the cast] got together in October and they're at it since."

Val Moynihan is the "genius behind it", she added, and it's produced by her son Brian Hickey, and co-written with Eilish

Coakley.

She said that they have loads working in the background also doing the stage curtains, lighting and making costumes amongst other tasks.

"It's a pantomime without the pantomime in the background! It's a whole community effort both sides of the border."

Evening shows start at 7.30pm tomorrow (Saturday) and again Sunday (January 29) at 3pm.

Mid-week shows continue on Wednesday next (February 1) at 7.30pm, Thursday (February 2) at 7.30pm and also Saturday (February 4) at 7.30pm and Sunday (February 5) at 3pm.

The booking office (085 2031730) will be open every day from 2pm to 6pm to reserve seats and collect tickets and is located adjacent to the community centre, next to Christy’s Take Away. Seats may be reserved over the phone too and paid for using a bank card. All proceeds are going to Kerry Parents & Friends Association.

John Dolan, General Manager of The Gleneagle Hotel.

Photo: Valerie O'Sullivan

TOP 10: Gleneagle General Manager John Dolan (front right) and his team celebrating being voted in the top 10 best hotels in Ireland. Photo: Valerie O'Sullivan

ALL SET: Members of the Marian Players Rathmore are ready for the stage this weekend with their hilarious show 'Dame Annie Goes West'.

15th April 2023

AND 55KM 120KM

CYCLE ROUTES ON THE MAJESTIC DINGLE PENINSULA AND SLEA HEAD FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO REGISTER VISIT WWW.RIDEDINGLE.COM in association with Dingle Cycling Club

Pádraig Harnett to be remembered at Celtic football fundraiser

One of Killarney’s best loved sons, who passed away suddenly last October, will be remembered in a concert that will combine two of his favourite pastimes.

| By Sean Moriarty

Best known for his role within Killarney Celtic Football Club, soccer journalist Pádraig Harnett was also a former tour manager for internationally renowned local accordionist Liam O’Connor. Next Friday night Liam will remember his friend and colleague with a special concert in the Fáilte Hotel.

The concert will raise funds for the Killarney Celtic Football 'For All Team' which is one of only two inclusive clubs in Kerry for children with varying needs.

“Pádraig was a loyal friend, so honest and very intelligent and down to earth," Liam told the Killarney Advertiser. "He was a larger-than-life character who also worked as a journalist for local magazines, papers and was an avid soccer reporter and broadcaster who could discuss virtually any subject, including sport

and music. He was a very special man and played an enormous role in my musical career.”

The pair met over 30 years ago when Pádraig was the Manager of the Earl of Desmond Hotel in Tralee.

“That was the start of a close personal friendship,” added Liam.

“He initially joined my team at the ‘Fáilte Sessions’, before moving on to the 'Liam O’Connor Shows' in the Killarney Avenue Hotel. Pat was my tour manager for 11 years. Together we toured South America, especially Brazil, as well as Ireland, Britain, Italy and other countries in Europe.”

Admission for the ‘Liam O'Connor Music Presents A Musical Night in Memory of His Good Friend Padraig Harnett’ costs €10. Tickets are available on the door but capacity is limited to three hundred people.

Government to examine 9% VAT rate

| By Michelle Crean

Finance Minister Michael McGrath has this week said that the Government will, in the coming weeks, examine the 9% VAT rate.

Minister McGrath was speaking in the Dáil when asked by Kerry TD Brendan Griffin, as well as a number of other TDs from across the country, to retain the 9% VAT rate for the tourism and hospitality sectors.

Fine Gael's Brendan Griffin questioned if the VAT rate would stay the same or be changed.

"To ask the Minister for Finance if he will retain the 9% VAT rate for the tourism and hospitality sector; if his attention has been drawn to reports of the vital importance of this measure for counties such as Kerry, which has a proportionately higher reliance on the tourism and hospitality sectors; and if he will make a statement on the matter".

Minister McGrath said that he'd take all the questions together.

FRIENDS: Pádraig Harnett and Liam O’Connor were friends for over 30 years.

"The VAT rating of goods and services is subject to EU VAT law, with which Irish VAT law must comply. In general, the Directive provides that all goods and services are liable to VAT at the standard rate unless they fall within

Annex III of the Directive, in respect of which Member States may apply either one or two reduced rates of VAT. Ireland currently operates two reduced rates of VAT, 13.5% and 9%, as permitted by the Directive," he answered.

"Currently, the 9% rate applies on a temporary basis to the hospitality and tourism sectors which includes the supply of hotel accommodation and the supply of meals in hotels (excluding alcohol and soft drinks) until 28 February 2023. The 9% rate was introduced in recognition of the fact that the tourism and hospitality sectors were among those most impacted by the public health restrictions put in place throughout the pandemic. Through no fault of their own, bars, hotels and restaurants had to close on multiple occasions in response to the public health crisis. From 1 March 2023, these sectors are due to return to the 13.5% rate. The supply of alcohol and soft drinks remains unchanged at the standard rate of VAT (23%). As I have said on a number of occasions, the Government will, in the coming weeks, examine the full suite of taxation and other measures that are due to expire at the end of February. In making any decision the Government will balance the costs of the measures in question against their impact."

BRASSERIE RESTAURANT

CHRISTENINGS, COMMUNIONS & CONFIRMATIONS

– AVAILABLE ALL YEAR ROUND –

3 COURSE MENU

€40 per person

Children’s Menu €20.00 per child

Private Dining Areas Available Bookings from 12.30pm onwards

3 COURSE MENU

€40 per person

Reopening February 10th Friday

Bookings open on our website harrowkillarney.com

Sunday Lunch served every week from 12.30 till 3.30pm

064 663 0766 • reservations@harrowkillarney.com www.harrowkillarney.com

CELEBRATE VALENTINE’S AT HARROW

Top honours for Killarney students

| By Michelle Crean

The girls received the accolade on Saturday in the Shamrock Lodge Hotel in Athlone.

The LCANA 'Feargal Quinn Awards' are presented each year to students who obtain top credits in the Leaving Certificate Applied (LCA) examination of that year.

The top performing students are notified by the State Examinations Commission. The student’s final credit total is based on their performance in the Leaving Certificate Applied examination over the two years.

Both Leah and Ellie received full credits over the two years of the Leaving Certificate Applied programme in St Brigid's. Credits for this programme are contin-

uously accumulated from key assignments, student tasks, work experience, orals, practicals, and from seven final exams.

"Leah and Ellie engaged in many extra-curricular activities as part of their journey in St Brigid's including setting up a mini company at the St Brigid’s Christmas Market where they showcased their entrepreneurial skills," LCA coordinator, Peggy Dowling, said.

"They were also part of a group who set up a Slí na Sláinte Walk Way. This was a health promotion initiative for the Irish Heart Foundation, aimed at encouraging people of all ages and abilities to walk for pleasure and general health. St Brigid’s Killarney was the first school in Killarney to introduce this initiative. They both hope to pursue a career as an SNA."

STEM Scholarship for outstanding female student

A Killarney student attending University College Cork has received a STEM scholarship.

Annie O’Donoghue (22) who is in her final year of a Bachelor of Science Degree in Data Science and Analytics in University College Cork, was recognised as an outstanding female student in STEM2D disciplines: Science, Technology, Engineering, Math, Manufacturing and Design at a ceremony held at Janssen Sciences site in Ringaskiddy.

Annie, from Muckross, will receive a student award, a bursary of €1,500, industry mentoring and leadership training, along with the opportunity to attend career workshops, visit Johnson & Johnson sites and participate in WiSTEM2D events designed to support students with pursuing future STEM careers.

The Johnson & Johnson WiSTEM2D programme fuels the development of the female STEM2D talent pipeline by awarding and sponsoring girls and women at critical points in their educational experience and their careers, in STEM disciplines. The Undergraduate programme was first introduced at University of Limerick in 2016. Since then, it has expanded to include University College Cork in 2018, University of Galway in 2021, and Munster Technological University in 2022, supporting more than 400 female students over the last six years.

SCHOLARSHIP:

“It’s an honour to be a recipient of this award,” Annie, who is a former St Brigid’s Presentation Secondary School student, told the Killarney Advertiser.

“It’s great to see the number of women in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, Manufacturing and Design, increase over the years.”

She added that the goal of the award is “to inspire women to pursue their career path in their respective STEM2D field of work”.

to

over €4m to

internationally displaced people

County Kerry is set to get the second largest portion of funding under a new scheme aimed at welcoming people from Ukraine and other countries.

Announced this week by the Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys and Minister of State Joe O’Brien, sports clubs, community organisations, transport infrastructure and local groups are set to benefit from the funding.

A total of €50 million has been allocated under the Community Recognition Fund with every local authority in the country set to receive funds from the scheme. The money will be divided based on the number of new arrivals located in each local authority area with Kerry County Council to get €4,403,073 - the highest figure allocated to any individual county council. The second highest local authority on the funding list is Donegal County Council which is set to get €3,114,395.

“The people of Kerry have opened their hearts and homes to those forced to flee the war in Ukraine," TD Norma Foley said.

"This funding initiative is designed to specifically support those communities who have welcomed and are hosting families and citizens from Ukraine and other countries.

“This funding stream is specifically designed to recognise the vital role our communities are playing in response to this illegal and unjust war, and will sup-

port, enhance and improve facilities that are open to the wider community."

When the allocations earmarked for all four Dublin councils (Dublin City Council - €2,392,127; Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council - €707,864, South Dublin County Council - €2,754,305 and Fingal County Council - €1,813,912) are added together, it totals €7,668,208.

REFUGEE INFLUX PAUSED

Meanwhile the Government has paused new arrivals of people seeking International Protection (IP) into Ireland due a severe shortage of accommodation. Latest figures by the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth say that more than 1,500 people have arrived in Ireland in the first two weeks of the year.

To date, Ireland has accommodated more than 74,000 people who have fled here, between International Protection (IP) applicants and those fleeing the war in Ukraine. The Government was providing temporary accommodation at a Transit Hub at Citywest, Dublin.

“Due to the nationwide shortage of available accommodation for IP applicants, particularly single males, the Transit Hub has been providing emergency shelter while applicants wait to be assigned to accommodation. It is no longer possible to provide emergency shelter to IP adults as the Transit Hub has now reached capacity,” a department statement said.

Kerry

get

welcome

AWARD: Students Ellie O'Sullivan and Leah O'Donoghue from St Brigid's Killarney, pictured with LCA coordinator Peggy Dowling and Principal Roisin Moore, are recipients of the Leaving Cert Applied Fergal Quinn Award 2022. Photo: Marie Carroll-O'Sullivan

University College Cork student Annie Siobhan O’Donoghue has received a scholarship which recognises outstanding female students in STEM2D disciplines.

Two former St Brigid's students, Ellie O'Sullivan and Leah O'Donoghue, have received the Fergal Quinn Award.

Hotel staff awarded for their hard work

Not only did they enjoy a well deserved evening out together after a busy festive season, but employees from two Killarney hotels were also awarded for their dedication to their jobs.

A wonderful night was had by all from the hard-working teams of the Great Southern and Killarney Royal who celebrated their annual employee awards evenings. Management from the hotels took the opportunity to mark the occasion with long service and customer service excellence awards presented on the night. The Killarney Royal awards were held in The Tan Yard in the Killarney Plaza, with the Great Southern awards held in Hilliards.

The Great Southern event saw a number of awards presented, including Employee of the Year which went to Pal Palfi, who has also been nominated in the IHF Kerry Branch Employee of the Year awards. Manager of the Year went to Áine McMa-

hon, Reservations Manager at the Great Southern. Other winners on the night included Olga O’Donoghue, Damian Ciupka, Sharyaar Akhtar with Department of the Year awarded to the Conference & Banqueting team.

The Killarney Royal event saw awards go to Employee of the Year, Ellie Roche, with other awards going to Tara Watters, Dominika Repinska, Franco Mario, Fred Bastable, Tetiana Poshka and Rachel Leech.

Long service awards were also presented on the evening with Nuala Doolan celebrating an amazing 30 years and Michael Cronin celebrating 15 years with the company.

“We were delighted to welcome our team members in a relaxed and casual atmosphere to celebrate together," Hayfield

AWARDS: Ellie Roche from The Killarney Royal received Employee of the Year. She’s pictured at the front with Caoimhe Spillane (HR Manager). Also awarded were: Tetiana Poshka and Nuala Doolan in the middle, and Tara Watters, Mike Cronin and Rachel Leech at the back. Photo: Don MacMonagle

Family Collection Managing Director, Michael Jacobi, said.

"We are privileged to operate three beautiful hotels but it is the staff in the hotels that really make the difference! Our staff parties are a great opportunity to thank

every single one of our colleagues for their hard work and for the incredible hospitality they provide to our guests. After a challenging but successful 2022 we are now looking forward to creating more memorable experiences in 2023.”

Kerry teens power up for a more sustainable future

Students from Killorglin Community College, joined peers from across Ireland, to gather in Dublin to discuss climate action and environmental sustainability.

It was all part of a unique event co-hosted by EirGrid, in partnership with Young Social Innovators (YSI).

The money and energy-savvy TikTokers shared energy-saving tips and sustainability advice on the popular platform under the handle – ‘The Economic Life Raft’. “We share money-saving tips like recipes to use up leftovers and how to bleed your radiators so they’re more energy effi-

cient," student Zachery Cahill said. The group now plan to grow their own vegetables in the school’s polytunnel. "We’re working with the student council too to get reusable water bottles for students, to cut out plastic bottles, and we hope to work with the local Tidy Towns group to go litter picking,” student Emma Healy said. While at the Dublin event, they had the opportunity to learn about the inner workings of the National Control Centre,

hub

manages Ireland’s electricity grid,

to provide the grid operator with their views on how they’d like to see Ireland’s energy system develop for the future.

| By Michelle Crean

the

from which EirGrid

and

EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR: Pal Palfi from the Great Southern Killarney was awarded Employee of the Year. He’s pictured with Roisin O’Sullivan, Michael Jacobi (Hayfield Family Collection Managing Director), and Mark Scally. Photo: Don MacMonagle

DESERVED: Manager of the Year went to Áine McMahon Reservations Manager at the Great Southern (Second Left) pictured with Roisin O’Sullivan, Michael Jacobi (Hayfield Family Collection Managing Director) and Mark Scally. Photo: Don MacMonagle

POWERING UP: Pictured at the EirGrid and Young Social Innovators (YSI) ‘Powering Up’ event were students Oisin Poff, Zachery Cahill, Stuart Scott, Emma Healy and James O'Shea from Killorglin Community College. Photo: Shane O'Neill, Coalesce

SUNDAY, 5TH FEBRUARY

Anytime between 2pm and 5pm

Killarney Racecourse

Amateur photography? Drama? Leisure sports? Volunteering? Drop in to find out how you can get involved in something new for 2023 Free Admission, Open to the public

Over 30 Clubs and Charities already taking part…

If your organisation is interested in participating please email killarneylionsclub@gmail.com

Kindly sponsored by Killarney Credit Union

Kerry Clubs Fair back with a bang

Over 30 clubs have so far signed up for the Kerry Clubs Fair which takes place next month.

| By Michelle Crean

The event was a big success when it last took place in 2020, when over 700 people dropped in to see what was on offer. Free and open to the public, the fair, taking place on Sunday, February 5 from 2pm – 5pm at Killarney Racecourse, will give people in Kerry an easy way to find out about volunteering opportunities and new activities they can participate in.

Sponsored by Killarney Credit Union, Kerry Clubs Fair is once again being organised by Killarney Lions Club. The aim is to highlight opportunities for people in Kerry to get involved in something new this coming year.

“After the challenges of the last few

years, we believe it’s more important than ever to help people find out about clubs and other organisations that are active in their community,” Killarney Lions Club President, Denis Doolan, said.

“So if anyone wants to get involved in something new for fun or recreation, the Kerry Clubs Fair will be well worth a visit.”

BENEFITS

The Killarney Lions Club is hoping that in addition to providing awareness about activities that people can get involved in, the Kerry Clubs Fair will help promote inclusion of people from all backgrounds in their local community, address isolation and highlight the benefits of volunteering to people of all ages.

Karena McCarthy, Marketing & Develop-

ment with Killarney Credit Union, added that they are delighted to be involved with this event.

"Credit unions pride ourselves on being at the heart of the community and therefore an event like this is a very good fit for us," she said.

"We sponsor and give money to various local clubs and organisations throughout the community and an event such as this gives greater exposure to create new relationships and see what is on of-

fer locally.”

Clubs and societies that are interested in participating can call email killarneylionsclub@gmail.com.

The Killarney Lions Club through its members, assists various groups and individuals in and around the community. Lions do this through voluntary activities, fundraising and by holding various types of events in support of a great many local causes.

CLUBS FAIR: Pictured at Killarney Racecourse for the launch of Kerry Clubs Fair Day, sponsored by Killarney Credit Union, from l-r were: Tom Leslie (Killarney Valley Classic & Vintage Club), Fiona Carroll (PRO Killarney Valley Classic & Vintage Club), John Ivory (Captain Ross Golf Club), Denis Doolan (President Lions Club) and Karena McCarthy (Killarney Credit Union). Photo: Marie Carroll-O'Sullivan

Almost €10k raised in memory of Ian

A day in memory of Ian O'Riordan was a huge success as €9,800 was raised in his name.

| By Michelle Crean

99 tractors, 97 cars and 10 trucks from all over Kerry and as far away as Kilnamartyra near Macroom made their way to Rathmore on Saturday for the event in aid of Down Syndrome Kerry (DSK).

Ian, from Maughantourig, Gneeveguilla, sadly passed away on January 14, 2013 aged just 16-years-old.

His family organised the tractor and car run for his 10th anniversary.

Registration began at the Rathmore GAA grounds in the morning and the vehicles departed at 12.30pm. Later in the day it was time to let their hair down with entertainment from 'Up in Smoke' at the Bridge Bar.

Ian's mom Eileen O'Riordan said that she couldn't have done it without the support

of the community and beyond.

"It was absolutely fantastic. There were over 200 vehicles there."

She added that it was "heartwarming" that her children's friends, neighbours and the community gave "amazing" support.

"It was countywide support for the fundraiser. The Kerry jersey was won in Listowel which shows that tickets were sold as far as there," she said. "All Ian's classmates were there. There were stories all day and glasses clinging in his memory. It was emotional but enjoyable. Thanks to Rathmore GAA for the fantastic facilities and stewarding and every steward in Gneeveguilla. I couldn't have done it without the two GAA clubs and the Bridge Bar. Thanks also to everyone dug so deep."

Christopher Murphy, Denis Fitzpatrick and James O'Regan.

Photo: Seamus Healy

Micheal Foley on his new Holland in Rathmore on Saturday in memory of Ian O'Riordan.

Photo: Seamus Healy

Donal Hurley, Dan O'Sullivan, John Hurley, Oisin Hurley, Hanorah Hurley, Sean Hurley and Darragh O'Sullivan at the tractor and car run in memory of Ian O'Riordan on Saturday. Photo: Seamus Healy

Liam, Eileen and Melissa O'Riordan who organised the event in Rathmore on Saturday in memory of their beloved Ian O'Riordan. Photo: Seamus Healy

Ruairi, Micheal and Conor O'Donoghue. Photo: Seamus Healy

Eileen O'Riordan with family and friends who organised the tractor and car run in Rathmore on Saturday in memory of Ian O'Riordan.

Photo: Seamus Healy

Rob Donnelly, Phelim Foley, Clodagh O'Donoghue, Jacqueline, Jayden and Logan Reen. Photo: Seamus Healy

Michael, Imelda and Fia Cronin pictured at the tractor and car run in Rathmore on Saturday in memory of Ian O'Riordan.

Photo: Seamus Healy

Rebel lights delight for Killarney star

The continued growth, development and participation of women’s handball in East Kerry was rewarded at the weekend when Cork hosted ‘She’s Ace’, the prestigious All Ladies Handball championships.

| By Con Dennehy

Attracting all the leading players in Ireland, it was Sarah Dineen, the Spa/Killarney player who shot out the Rebel lights in Conna with a phenomenal display of handball.

Competing in the highly competitive Ladies Challenger championship, the Killarney player, who took up the sport just 18 months ago, had the perfect start in the competition defeating the home town favourite Agnes Hurley from Conna on a 21-20 scoreline following an energy sapping and close encounter that hung in the balance to the final ace.

In her second game she took on the challenge of Nolwenn Even from St Brigids where her skill, superior fitness and movement on the court resulted in the 21-12 victory and a place in the prestig-

ious final.

“The final was always going to be a difficult game not least playing local girl Kate O’Riordan from Conna. I concentrated on my serve and kill shots which ensured we shared the aces early in the game. It was a difficult game with the home supporters out in force to cheer on their local hero. However, I played well and secured a 2111 victory. This was the second time this title came to Spa Killarney following the 2022 win by Aoife Walsh in Northern Ireland,” said Sarah, who is currently chairperson of the Killarney Camogie Club.

A native of Westmeath, Sarah (46) runs a jewellery business in Killarney and lives in Rathmore. No stranger to competitive sport she played camogie for Westmeath and Leinster and also won an Intermediate championship Gaelic football medal in Westmeath.

Extra summer flights from Kerry Airport

Kerry Airport’s CEO is calling for the business and the wider community to have their say on the future of the airport.

The Department of Transport has launched a public consultation on its Regional Airports Programme.

This week, John Mulhern wrote a letter to interested parties based in Kerry.

“The department is inviting stakeholders and the general public to make submissions on any issues they wish to be considered for inclusion in the upcoming mid-term review of the Regional Airport Programme.”

Items highlighted in the letter include the continuation of Government aid to support airports in rural communities and the future of the Kerry Dublin flight.

Since Ryanair took over the Dublin flight in July 2021 the service has grown despite concerns about the timings of the flights to and from the capital.

Ryanair does not receive funding from the Government under the Public Service Obligation (PSO) scheme.

“Although, at different scheduled times of operation, Ryanair have made every effort to recover the Kerry-Dublin route to and recent passenger numbers exceed

even the numbers experienced in 2019,” added the letter.

“We must not take this for granted and therefore the Government needs to commit to reinstating the POS contract on the Dublin-Kerry route if Ryanair decides to cease providing the service in the future. Submissions must be made by next Tuesday (January 31) to airportsdivision@ transport.gov.ie.

SUMMER 2023

Meanwhile the airport has announced its summer schedule for 2023.

Highlights include the introduction of additional flights to Alicante from March 27. Flights to the popular Spanish holiday destination will operate three times a week for the summer season on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays until the end of October.

The route to Faro in Portugal’s Algarve will also return twice weekly on Wednesdays and Sundays from March 28.

The Kerry-Manchester route is to increase from two to three days a week, operating on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from March 26 onwards. However the Berlin route, which has not operated since before the pandemic, remains off the itinerary.

SHE’S ACE: Sarah Dineen from Spa Killarney Handball Club winner of the She’s Ace All Ladies championship in Cork at the weekend.

Photo: Con Dennehy

HAVING A LAUGH: Adam O’Connor (8) from Crosstown in Killarney, got a chance to make Johnny Sexton laugh. It’s not the easiest challenge as the Ireland and Leinster captain is known for being a serious rugby player. As part of the MACE community engagement agenda, children across the nation were asked to tell their best jokes! Adam O’Connor was one of a few youngsters selected to meet the rugby hero and tell him his jokes in person.

Interior design trends for 2023

WHAT’S IN AND WHAT’S OUT

We have all spent a lot more time than usual at home over the past few years, and we all need to look at our homes in a new light. Trends should be taken as inspiration and not written in stone. If the bouchée chair you’ve been dreaming about still sparks joy for you don’t let anyone tell you any different - buy it. The most memorable spaces, while they may be informed by trends, always convey a person’s unique style and that’s hard for any one trend to capture. Your home is your safe space and beauty is in the eye if the beholder.

Out: Bouclé

There was a boom in bouclé in 2021, but the creamy looped fabric is already a victim of its success.

“I love me some bouclé, but every single vendor is upholstering their furniture with the fabric,” - Joshua Smith, interior designer.

Bouclé is beautiful but can be very impractical especially if you have small children, teenagers or pets, so maybe limit it to a bedroom chair or even a headboard if, like me, you still love this fabric, but you may regret a full bouclé sofa.

In: Velvet

To be honest velvet has been “in” forever but it’s hard to match a good quality velvet sofa. My velvet sofas have survived so much and still look relatively good after so many years. It’s so cozy - and coziness is always in. Moody tones are big on trend and also make a velvet sofa even more practical.

Out: Scandi minimalism

Designers have noticed a departure from early IKEA days of pale wood and colourless interiors. Unless it’s implemented perfectly this trend can feel cold and a little bit too open, and if you don’t bring warmth and texture, it can fall flat, lack individuality, and feel sterile. We want to feel comfortable in our homes and the clutter of our daily lives sticks out like a sore thumb in these paired back spaces.

We all see articles call out trends for the coming year telling us what to buy and what to get rid of in our home, and when I read these a quote I came across years ago always comes to mind:

“Have nothing in your houses that you do not know to be beautiful or believe to be useful”

- William Morris

BOUCLÉ

SCANDI MINIMALISM

BOHO

MOODY SPACES EARTH TONES

In: Sustainability

We have all become more concerned about the impact we have on the environment; our purchasing and our recycling and reusing. Some vintage or antique pieces in our homes are a great way of grounding the space but also gives the added knowledge that you are being kind to the environment. These can be mixed with newer furniture to give an eclectic look and are also great talking points. As Patsy Stone once said, “One should never be the oldest thing in one's house”. And if you are replacing big items think about selling or donating your old furniture, it may spark joy for someone else.

Out: Boho Styles

Take the macramé off the wall and put the plants on a side table. While Boho has been big for years now, it’s changing. In the past this style has been heavily influenced by YouTube and Instagram where there’s a younger audience, but now it’s growing up. We’ll see more curated spaces that still celebrate hand craftsmanship and artistry but with a less hippie vibe.

In: Moody spaces

We are loving deep moody tones and their ability to make spaces feel so intentional. Try painting a room all in the same colour including the ceiling and trim; AKA Farrow and Ball or adding wallpaper with the same colour as other textiles in the room. Chose colour with depth like a dark green or deep blue, this works really well with dark furniture and a mix of patterns and striped cushions and throws. Think a modern take on the traditional Manor House charm.

In: Earth tones

Brown is the new black, at least in interiors. Earthy hues are here to stay; they increased in popularity during the pandemic and still rule three years on. Colour psychology—or how different shades affect our emotional being—states that humans feel a sense of safety and security when surrounded by brown. Why? Its associations with the earth: the calming and resilient element that keeps us quite literally grounded. Another moody tone, mauve is set to take over from pink which has been very popular since millennium pink, later moving on to duster shades. What do the designer’s say, “Expect to see green everywhere”. ELLE Decor editors have seen grassy flooring crop up in homes from Paris to Woodstock, while leafy-hued furniture was on display at the most recent High Point Furniture Market. Studholme, of Farrow & Ball, points to the increasing popularity of the paint company’s deep moody greens, like Green Smoke.

In: Heavy vained counter tops

While a classic white stone is nothing to be sniffed at, it is striking veining, characteristically in black, running with wild abandon through the countertop, which can have a real show-stopping impact in a kitchen, and make the space truly sing. Dramatic veining, whether it’s on worktops, splashbacks or sinks, has been growing in popularity over the past few years. It’s nature at its most dramatic and this trend is here to stay for the foreseeable.

HEAVY VAINED COUNTER TOPS

TRENDS & STYLES FOR 2023 WITH

In 2022, we loved green décor, earthy textures, and curved furniture, as well as vibrant prints and all-around cosy vibes.

While we don’t think nature-inspired looks or snug, comfy setups will ever go out of style, there are some New Year furniture and décor trends we’re looking forward to seeing in 2023. The all-white kitchen is once more on-trend this year, offering a light and airy look for cooking and mealtimes.

SHADES OF SUNSET IN EVERY ROOM

The most popular colour palettes of 2022 featured shades of green, but for 2023 we’re looking at warmer tones that evoke the painted colours of a desert sunset.

THE ALL-WHITE KITCHEN IS BACK

The all-white kitchen is once more ontrend this year, offering a light and airy look for cooking and mealtimes.

PLACES INSPIRED SPACES

2023 will be a huge year for travel with most of us eager to get out and about. This will also seep into interior décor, with travel plans being used to inspire your New Year choices.

LARGE AND LAYERED LIGHTING

In 2023, it’s time to get lighting right. If a room in your home feels dark and uninviting, upgrade your lamps and light fixtures to illuminate your space.

Carpets keeping it cosy

Cosy carpets will be a big thing this year for creating the perfect cosy home. Shop the Soft Noble Stainfree Carpet range was €14.99/y2 now only €10.99/y2!

Grey is here to stay

Grey hues will continue this year with grey bedroom furniture such as the Gabrielle, being a huge hit. Get the Gabrielle package including 4'6 bed, two lockers, wardrobe, 6-drawer chest, dressing table, mirror with stool, and 2-over-3 chest for only €2599 (was €3199!)

Modular sofas become a movement

Modular suites like the Yoko 2C2 Corner are predicted to be the must-have furniture piece of 2023. Yoko Corner with Drinks Console was €3999 now €3499.

Heat up your home for less

Berry tones will be the colour of 2023

Whereas green was a big trend in 2022, Berry is the way to go for 2023. The Douglas, pictured above, comes in 3 Seater for €1299, 2 Seater for €999, and 1 Seater for €749 in the Corcorans' New Year's Sale

Keep your home warm and cosy with stoves starting from only €749

KEEP ITLIT WITH

This week we visited McElligotts EZ Living showroom in Killarney to view their range of stoves and heating solutions.

The experienced team of energy specialists will provide solutions for all of your energy needs. They will design, plan, and commission the perfect system for your home or business. They’ve plenty of high-quality products to ensure the highest level of comfort, reliability, and cost efficiency.

HERE ARE SOME OF THE STOVES THAT THEY OFFER:

1. MOURNE 400 INSET STOVE 5KW • €799

With all of the features of the Mourne free standing stove, the Mourne inset operates at a very high efficiency of 82.2%

The inset stove is ideal for replacing your old inefficient open fire and will install in your existing fire place opening.

2. GRAPHITE 5 • €680

With outstanding efficiency of 84.7% the Graphite stove is one of the most effective stoves you can buy.

Its unique conveyor warm air convection system will quickly distribute heat around your living space without burning additional fuel. Pre-heated tertiary air ensures the Graphite is extremely clean burning and better for the environment. It is DEBRA and ECO 22 approved.

The Graphite is also available in 8kw model for larger rooms.

A classic looking stove ideal for replacement of existing older stoves.

3. PELLET STOVES

If you are considering installing a pellet stove, there are many advantages to this form of heating.

Pellet stoves are very economical, ECO friendly, easy to use, temperature and timed controlled, very clean and above all have low running costs.

Pellet stoves are available in many designs and colours and don’t need a traditional chimney for installation.

The Alea pellet stove has a striking modern slim line look and is available in a range of colours. WiFi remote control is also an available option. It’s easy to operate and ideal for tight spaces.

4. THE AIDAN BOILER STOVE • €1,600

A true work horse…. The Aidan boiler stove will heat up to 12 radiators, generating 15kw to water and 6kw to your room. Ideal for larger homes and represents exceptional value for a stove of this size. No wonder the Aidan is one of Ireland's best-selling stoves.

Packed with features, including thermostatic control, overnight burn, clean burn technology and separate ash pan chamber for ease of use.

5. MOURNE 5KW FREE STANDING STOVE • €699

The Mourne stove is designed with the environment in mind.

High efficiency 78.7%, Tertiary air for cleaner burning and DEFRA and ECO 22 approved.

A modern stylish look with a large viewing window. This stove includes secondary air-wash to ensure the glass on your stove stays clear allowing you to enjoy the beautiful flame picture.

Clever design for easy maintenance and burns multi fuels.

The Mourne is also available in 8kw model ideal for larger rooms. PRICE €899

4 5

“An unconventional shade for an unconventional time"

The Pantone Color Institute was founded two decades after the colour company and has been championing ‘Colours of the Year’ since cerulean blue in 2000 (cue the iconic Devil Wears Prada monologue).

WHY THE COLOUR OF THE YEAR MATTERS

Pantone effectively makes a colour into an industry celebrity. Pantone's chosen colours of the year go on to influence product development and purchasing

VIVA MAGENTA 18-1750

decisions in all sorts of industries, including fashion, industrial design and product packaging.

WHAT IS VIVA MAGENTA?

Pantone’s Color of the Year, Viva Magenta 18-1750, vibrates with vim and vigor.

It is a shade rooted in nature descending from the red family and expressive of a new signal of strength. Viva Magenta is brave and fearless, and a pulsating colour whose exuberance promotes a joyous and optimistic celebration, writing a new narrative.

This year’s Color of the Year is powerful

and empowering. It is a new animated red that revels in pure joy, encouraging experimentation and self-expression without restraint, an electrifying, and a boundaryless shade that is manifesting as a stand-out statement. PANTONE 181750 Viva Magenta welcomes anyone and everyone with the same verve for life and rebellious spirit. It is a colour that is audacious, full of wit and inclusive of all. In this age of technology, we look to draw inspiration from nature and what is real. PANTONE 18-1750 Viva Magenta descends from the red family, and is inspired by the red of cochineal, one of

the most precious dyes belonging to the natural dye family as well as one of the strongest and brightest the world has known.

Rooted in the primordial, PANTONE 18-1750 Viva Magenta reconnects us to original matter. Invoking the forces of nature, PANTONE 18-1750 Viva Magenta galvanizes our spirit, helping us to build our inner strength.

Leatrice EISEMAN Executive Director, PANTONE® COLOR INSTITUTE

colour of the year

WILD WONDER™

For the past 20 years, Dulux colour experts have been translating global insights into a Colour of the Year that matches the mood of the moment. The shade for 2023 is Wild Wonder™ – a positive, glowing tone, inspired by the natural world. Nature is the source of everything in our lives and we are re-evaluating our relationship with the

natural world. The name Wild Wonder lends itself to creative expression, the endless possibilities that designing a home and choosing colours presents the inner creative in all of us.

Wild Wonder is a positive natural tone that, by connecting us with the natural world, can help us feel better in our homes.

TOP TIPS &TRICKS

TO PAINT A ROOM QUICKLY

BY TONY GRIFFIN TRALEE MANAGER

A fresh coat of paint is one of the fastest ways to dramatically improve the appearance of a room - be it a hotel room for the next guest or ahead of that special family event.

One major misconception about painting is that it can take days to get your room back. However, I am here to tell you that with the right know-how and products, this is simply not true! Read on to discover how to paint your room in the morning and have it back in use by the afternoon!

• Choose Your Paint & Colour Wisely

If speed is your top priority, a high-quality paint will give you that perfect colour in fewer coats - saving you both time and money. It is also best to choose a similar colour, or go darker, as this will require minimal coats than if you go for a dramatic colour change from light to dark.

• Use A Low-VOC, Odour-Free Paint

By using low-VOC, odourless paint you can quickly return the room to regular use without the tell-tale “fresh paint smell” making it perfect for both business and home use. As a low-VOC paint, Ralston ExtraTex Matt is virtually odourless, has greater eco-credentials and is perfectly safe to use around young children and pets.

• Use A Quick-Drying Paint

You can save time by using paint that has been designed to have a short drying time. This will help to ensure that you are not sacrificing quality for speed. To achieve a flawless finish with minimal drying time, we recommend Ralston ExtraTex Matt. As a water-based premium paint, Ralston ExtraTex Matt boasts exceptional coverage coupled with a quick-drying time. It has been designed to achieve a professional finish and quick application with a smooth result.

• Gather All Your Tools at the Outset

Before starting, invest time in researching your project and gathering all the relevant supplies. Having everything you need to-hand at the outset of your project means that you can avoid any unplanned trips to the store.

What is equally as important is having the right tools – we always recommend using a quality roller and brush.

TIP: Using a good quality roller gives you the best coverage and overall finish. It can also be washed and reused for your next paint job.

• Tools for the Job

– Ralston ExtraTex Matt

– A good-quality 1 – 2” brush for cutting-in

– A high-quality 9” roller (we would recommend Corona or Wooster)

– Tray

– Masking tape such as Deltec Gold

– Dust sheets

All products mentioned in this piece are available on our online store www.mcdonnellpaints.ie with free delivery direct to your home or business on all orders. If you need help with a project, you can phone us or pop into our store in Tralee and speak with a member of the team.

HOUSE A HOME makeYOUR with

We hit the road last week to visit Cremur’s recently refurbished showrooms in Rock Street, Tralee. The store now stocks a large range of tiles, bathroom suites, and flooring along with a huge selection of stoves and fireplaces to choose from. It has been a busy couple of years for the team having opened their second store in Newcastle West, Limerick which also has a wide variety of stoves, electric fires, bathrooms and more.

On arrival we met Sales & Marketing Manager PJ O’Sullivan who was only too happy to show us some of the best deals this month. Here is what we found:

Modern Flames Redstone Redseries 30” was €1,399, NOW €699

Convert your worn wood burning fireplace into a lively, stunning statement piece the simple way with this easily insert installed electric fireplace. This Insert Mount Conventional Electric Fireplace comes with built-in touch controls, optional trims in black and a handheld remote. Choose between 10 difference flame and ember bed colours and even control the speed of the flame.

Geneva Free Standing Bath

was €1,749, NOW €999

With a sensual curved elegance, the Geneva is a welcome addition to both modern and traditional bathroom designs. The double ended design offers the versatility to share the tub with a loved one or enjoy more space to bath the children, both form and function combined.

Available in white, the Geneva is supplied with a white waste and overflow cover as well as a slimline bath trap for easy installation above floor level.

Electric Elcofire 1500 was €1,799, NOW €1,199

The Elcofire range have a reputation for having the cleanest built-in design as well as the tallest flames, complimented with ultra-realistic illuminated pulsating logs and fuel bed, that lets you enjoy a hyper-realistic electric fire that would rival any real fire. Cremur are down to their very last one of these and have slashed the price considerably. If you like what you see, get into the showroom quick because we are told it will be gone soon!

Vitae Cassette Stove 10% OFF

The Vitae Cassette Stoves have been designed to create a stunning focal point in any room. They incorporate the latest technology that ensures they burn fuel with superior efficiency. So, as well as the attractive contemporary design, your heat design cassette stove will mean lower fuel costs as more heat is delivered into your room. The model pictured here is the 9kW glass fronted stove and would look great in any room.

T&Cs apply. Valid for in store only (excludes online), limited offers, valid for selected lines.

SONAS

Bathroom Bundle

WAS €1,327 NOW €799

Are you thinking about renovating or updating your bathroom? Add finishing touches with Cremur’s Sonas Bathroom Bundle. Whether you are planning a complete overhaul or a subtle change, this bundle covers some of the essential accessories. Sonas are renowned for their modern designs in a variety of colour finishes so if you don’t like what you see here, you can check out the full range at the Cremur showroom in Tralee or Newcastle West.

BEST ADVICE FOR BUYING HOME INSURANCE

Here are some tips when buying home insurance, including some cost saving advice:

• BUILDINGS: Your property should be insured for its rebuild cost not the market value. Rebuilding costs have increased substantially over the past 12 to 18 months. There is a handy rebuilding calculator on www.scsi.ie where you can calculate your own property.

Underinsurance can have serious consequences in the event of a claim so it is advisable to review annually and get professional advice from an insurance expert.

• CONTENTS: Remember an item of contents is something that would go with you if you moved house. For example, a dining table is part of contents but a fitted kitchen is part of buildings. You should value your contents for replacement value.

• ACCIDENTAL DAMAGE COVER: This usually covers damage such as spills on carpets or knocking over a television. It can also include glass damage. You may find that you can delete this cover and save money on your renewal. As each insurer in the market would have different definitions and terms, it pays to ask an expert insurance broker such as Healy Insurances.

• REVIEW: Home insurance rates use many data streams so it is crucial to ensure that your details are correct when quoting, such as your Eircode, use of the property (owner occupied, let out etc), intruder and smoke alarms, year of construction and flat roof details, if applicable. At renewal time you should review with your insurance advisor.

• SHOPPING AROUND: When shopping around it is important to understand that direct insurers and banks will only sell their own products and may not be able to offer you choice or advise you on your options. It is also worth noting that you are free to move your home insurance from your mortgage provider, we do this on a regular basis and succeed in securing large savings for these customers.

• USE A BROKER: As experts in home insurance we understand the market conditions and can advise which insurer, or which product, is most suitable for your specific needs. Aside from understanding the discounts that can be achieved in each case, we also negotiate bulk discounts from insurers to get the best prices for our customers.

At Healy Insurances we can search the market for you, review your policy and save you money!

Your home is your most valuable asset so it is vitally important to protect it by insuring it correctly. As expert insurance brokers, we have been saving our customers money on their home insurance for over 40 years.

away Home

INSPIRED BY DANNY CASEY

Car draw raises €248k for St Vincent De Paul

A total of €248,000 raised from St Vincent De Paul South-West's car draw will go directly to people in need in Kerry and Cork.

The charity has thanked the public for its “immense” support raised through ticket sales and donations to both SVP Cork and Kerry since the car draw’s launch in November.

The Society have said they are humbled by the generosity of the public during an extremely difficult and challenging period. SVP South-West Regional President Paddy O’Flynn said the much-needed funds would be “invaluable” for SVP

South-West to continue to assist struggling families in Kerry and Cork and will help fund key supports such as food vouchers and hampers, heat, utility costs and education, with families continuing to contact the Society seeking urgent assistance and support for each of these in recent weeks.

“We have always received immense support for the annual car draw from the people in Cork and Kerry," Paddy said.

“Even before the war in Ukraine, we predicted a challenging year ahead for 2022, and were conscious that people might not be in a position to donate to us and support the car draw as we are acutely

aware of the impact high fuel costs and rise in the cost of living has had on people’s income. Despite this, the public supported us in their droves this year and the 2022 car draw was a huge success. We are eternally grateful to every single person who pledged their support to this year’s car draw."

He added that this money will be used during the coming winter months to support many individuals and families facing hardship, with all of the money raised in Cork going to support those need in Cork, and all the proceeds raised in Kerry going directly to support families and individuals in Kerry.

World's biggest toad weighs 2.7kg

With over two billion toads in Australia - one in particular stood out this week - as it's thought to be the biggest in the world.

The giant cane toad found by rangers in Conway National Park in North Queensland has been called 'Toadzilla' due to its epic size.

Weighing in at 2.7kg and 255mm, it was found by park ranger Kylee Gray who gasped when she saw it. She had been travelling in a vehicle when she saw a snake slithering across the path and had to stop. She proceeded to get out of her vehicle, looked down and couldn't believe her eyes.

The toad is believed to be female and Kylee described it "almost like a football with legs".

"We weighed it when we got back to base late that afternoon and we got her at 2.7 kilos which just shocked us, absolutely blew us away," she said.

"We measured her, we got I think 255mm, but I believe the Queensland Museum will be doing their measurements when they receive her."

The Guinness World Record was set in Sweden in 1991 when a pet toad weighed in at 2.65kgs.

According to the WWF, cane toads are native to South America and Central America. They were introduced to Australia in 1935 and mainly eat living insects. However, they will consume anything they swallow including pet food and household scraps.

Ireland’s youngest Thalidomide survivor turns 60

son of the Irish Thalidomide Association (ITA) for many years.

John from Tarbert was born on January 24, 1963. He was needlessly affected by the toxic morning sickness drug Thalidomide. John was born 14 months after the international withdrawal was not heeded by the State. He has been chairper-

John’s birthday wish is “That 2023 draws a line in the sand of this sorry saga" and "That a fair deal is done". "It’s gone on too long," he said. "We need closure, we are exhausted. I can’t spend the rest of my days fighting. As children we weren’t expected to live to middle age - I’m delighted to have got

this far.”

There are only 40 Irish survivors left in Ireland, nearly one hundred have died around the world in 2022 alone. "We think of ourselves as a Thalidomide family. We are so happy and grateful to be able to mark Johns’ birthday. He is the most remarkable and unassuming man,"

and

SURVIVOR: Ireland’s youngest Thalidomide survivor, John Stack, turned 60 this week.

North Kerry man John Stack, who is Ireland’s youngest Thalidomide survivor, has turned 60.

Finola Cassidy, spokesperson

survivor from the ITA said.

WINNER: Frank Boland from Kinsale received his Ford Focus courtesy of the Cavanagh family’s TOMAR Trust. Frank is pictured with his wife Mary and the Lord Mayor of Cork, Cllr. Deirdre Forde. Included are Conor Kavanagh, Tomar Trust (second from right) and Paddy O’Flynn (St Vincent de Paul). Also included are Gerry Garvey (Regional Co-Ordinator, SVP) and Pat Harte (Sales Manager, CAB). Photo: Brian Lougheed

Shock as Ardern steps down as Prime Minister

New Zealand has a brand new Prime Minister following the sudden resignation of Jacinda Ardern on Thursday last.

Education Minister Chris Hipkins has now taken up the reins and has big shoes to fill as Ardern not only faced New Zealand's worst terrorist attack, a deadly volcanic eruption, and pandemic all in her first term.

Tralee centre honoured at Pride of Place awards

Tralee International Resource Centre was honoured at the prestigious Pride of Place community awards on Saturday evening in Dublin (January 21) for their work in integrating refugees.

The centre took the top spot in the ‘Community Resilience’ category with judges praising their ongoing work, particularly with families displaced due to the war in Ukraine.

“The impact of this group can be best judged by the testimony of its service users, who attest to a wonderful service covering everything from family support to organised trips to the beach. The group’s dedicated staff and volunteers are making a significant difference in helping refugees and asylum seekers.”

The awards were hosted by RTÉ’s Marty Whelan and took place in front of 400 community volunteers from across the island at the Clayton Hotel, Burlington Road.

Sponsored by IPB Insurance, the Pride of Place competition was initiated 20 years ago though a Co-operation Ireland programme to acknowledge the invalu-

able work undertaken by volunteers and those involved in local community development.

It has grown into the largest competition recognising community development achievements on the island of Ireland.

President Michael D. Higgins, who is Joint Patron of Co-operation Ireland, said the awards played an important role.

“The Pride of Place awards are a most important initiative, reminding us that creating societies that are ethical and inclusive is a task for all of our citizens, of all ages and circumstances.”

Dr Christopher Moran, Chairman of Co-operation Ireland added that Co-operation Ireland "has no other programme that embodies the charity's ethos better than Pride of Place".

“We work to build relationships across the island and Pride of Place plays a critical role in that work. The impact the awards have had in towns and villages across the island since they started 20 years ago cannot be underestimated, and the continuing success of the awards is down to the dedicated volunteers and their love of where they live."

Micko marries at 86

Legendary former Kerry football manager Mick O’Dwyer married his long term partner Geraldine Shields at the weekend.

The 86-year-old from Waterville is best known as the team manager during Kerry’s glory days in the late 1970s and early 1980s. During that time he guided Kerry to five All-Ireland titles.

Micko’s first wife, Mary Carmel, died in 2012.

He married Ms Shields at a Civil Registry Office in Killarney on Friday ahead of a small family reception at the Great Southern Killarney.

Jacinda Ardern was elected Prime Minister in 2017 aged 37 making her the country's youngest prime minister since 1856. Such was her popularity that in 2020 she won a landslide second term. However, the mother of one who had her baby while in Government, said she was quitting due to the "unrelenting demands of the job" which had "finally worn her down".

"This has been the most fulfilling five and a half years of my life. But it has also had its challenges," Ardern, who is now aged 42, said.

"I know what this job takes, and I know that I no longer have enough in the tank to do it justice. It is that simple."

Taking over is 44-year-old Chris Hipkins who served as education and police minister under Ms Ardern. He was sworn in

as New Zealand’s 41st Prime Minister on Wednesday.

In his first post-cabinet press conference he said that his Government will focus on the cost of living.

“New Zealanders will absolutely see in the coming weeks and months the cost of living is right at the heart of our work programme,” Chris Hipkins said.

“It is the number one priority that we are facing as a Government and they will see tangible evidence of this."

He has nine months to make an impression before contesting a tough general election.

FUNDS: Christmas FM, the much-loved festive music station that switches Christmas on across Ireland every year, has raised €294,706 for children’s charities Barnardos, Barretstown, Make-A-Wish Ireland and Community Foundation Ireland under its new ‘Magic of Christmas’ initiative. This figure will go a significant way towards Christmas FM’s aim to raise over €1,000,000 over a three-year period for the Magic of Christmas initiative to help 5,000 vulnerable children in our communities affected by traumatic life events such as poverty, abuse, neglect and bereavement, and to supporting children whose lives are affected by serious childhood illness. The 2022 figure brings the total amount raised by the radio station to almost €3.2 million since it began broadcasting 15 years ago. Christmas FM is run each year by a core management team, assisted by many volunteers who donate their time. Pictured outside the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland were: Mark Doyle (Fundraising and Marketing Lead, MakeA-Wish), Denise Charlton (Chief Executive, Community Foundation Ireland), Paul Shepherd (Co-Founder of Christmas FM), Ann Marie Walsh (representative from Magic of Christmas), Roger Woods (Senior Executive Engineer at BAI), Ronan Sweeney (Digital Marketing Executive, Barretstown) and Sean Bergin (National

MARRIED: Former Kerry Football Manager Mick O’Dwyer got married in Killarney at the age of 86.

Jacinda Ardern has stepped down as New Zealand's Prime Minister.

Fundraising Manager, Barnardos). Photo: Andres Poveda

HONOURED: Workers and service users from Tralee International Resource Centre picked up their award from Co-operation Ireland Chairman Dr Christopher Moran and IPB Insurance Chairman George Jones.

Fossa team make a special visit

There were screams of excitement as pupils welcomed the victorious Fossa team to their school on Wednesday last week. Team members included Paudie and David Clifford who are past pupils of Fossa National School. Fossa Team Manager Adrian Sheehan was also in attendance as well as Fossa player Mark Dennehy.

Adrian Sheehan (Fossa Team Manager) with his children Mark and Cian and the boy’s cousin Luke Dennehy and their uncle Fossa player Mark Dennehy. Photo: Michelle Cooper Galvin

Fossa pupils welcomed the victorious Fossa team to Fossa National School on Wednesday last week. Photos: Michelle Cooper Galvin

Fossa players Cian and Emmett O'Shea with their nephew James Keane at the victorious Fossa team visit to Fossa National School on Wednesday week last.

Photo: Michelle Cooper Galvin

Fossa pupils Caolán and Eanna Myers with their dad Kevin at the victorious Fossa team visit to Fossa National School on Wednesday last.

Photo: Michelle Cooper Galvin

Fossa assistant dog Zula welcomed the victorious Fossa team at Fossa National School on Wednesday last.

Photo: Michelle Cooper Galvin

Fossa pupils Hugh and Lucy Kavanagh welcomed the victorious Fossa team captain Paudie Clifford and his brother David to Fossa National School on Wednesday week last. Photo: Michelle Cooper Galvin

KITCHENS | WARDROBES | FITTED FURNITURE | CARPENTRY SERVICES

We have our range of bespoke kitchen, wardrobes and specialize in home renovations. You’ll be getting high quality units at a good price and your’re garunteed to get the pristine finish you are looking for. Finance options also available.

WE ORGANISE ALL TRADES SO YOU DON’T DO WORRY ABOUT THE FUSS. Reliable and easy to deal with, just give one look at our reviews on Facebook & Google. We didn’t get them by leaving people down.

The Victoria prepares to re-open after winter break

The Victoria, on Muckross Road, will fully re-open on Friday next (February 3) after the winter break.

The landmark hotel, owned and operated by the well-known John and Sinead Courtney, closed for its winter break on December 23.

But after a well-earned rest, management and staff are ready to welcome guests back.

“We look forward to welcoming you all back for the 2023 season,” said front-

of-house manager Jessica O’Sullivan. “Some of our rooms have been renovated and upgraded in the off-season.”

New or returning guests to the four-star boutique hotel can not only look forward to luxurious accommodation but also the best of fine dining.

The popular Courtyard Restaurant is now complemented by the newly added open-air terrace, The Botanica. Guests can also enjoy a relaxed lunch in The Ivy Lounge, or why not try the hotel’s amazing afternoon tea in the Drawing Room.

Stunning Views Superb Food

Aghadoe Heights Hotel & Spa offers something for everyone. Catch up with friends over casual bar food in the Heights Lounge or treat yourselves to a fine dining experience in the Lake Room Restaurant.

Lake Room Restaurant

Relax in style and treat yourself to our famous Sunday Lunch or Dinner served Wednesday to Sunday . Children’s menu available. Also ideal for Family Occasions, Christening, Confirmations and Communions.

Heights Lounge

Retreat to our cosy Heights Lounge, serving tasty light lunches or classic comfort food with a twist, this is the perfect spot for catching up with family and friends. Open daily from 12.30 -9pm.

Make a date to join us for lunch or dinner this month.

Fassbender linked to World Endurance Championship

Local Hollywood A-lister Michael Fassbender could contest a FIA World Championship this season.

The Fossa man has been competing with the Proton Dempsey Competition team in the European Le Mans Series for the last two years.

Last June he made his debut at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the biggest event in the FIA World Endurance Championship. The FIA is the world governing body for international motorsport and regulates such championships as the World Rally Championship and the Formula One World Championship.

The World Endurance Championship entry list was partially published last year.

It includes an entry for Proton Dempsey with the team’s ‘Gold’ driver Christian Ried already confirmed as one of the team’s drivers for the year ahead.

Each team must also nominate a ‘Silver’ and ‘Bronze’ driver. All three drivers share driving responsibilities over the seven round championship.

Fassbender’s current racing experience will easily allow him to qualify as a ‘Bronze’ driver.

Races vary in length and time, from the 24 hour duration of the French classic or the 1,000-mile race in Sebring, Florida. The pre-season prologue takes place at the Florida race track on March 11-12 and the final championship entry list should be announced before then.

WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS: Michael Fassbender and his Proton Competition teammates at the 24 Hours of Le Mans this season.

Ireland’s first electric bus service

An all-electric bus service run in Athlone will become the model for the rest of the country.

Operated by Ireland’s national bus company Bus Éireann and funded by the Department of Transport through the National Transport Authority (NTA), physical works to transform the town bus service into a 100% electric operation began last year, with the service due to commence operations this Sunday (January 29).

The project, a €10 million investment by the NTA, is the first to launch under the Government’s Pathfinder Programme which will see 11 new state-of-the-art electric buses operate town services.

The new fleet will reduce CO2 emissions by 400,000kg annually

and will deliver a quieter, cleaner bus service for the town and passengers. Over 540,000 kilometres are operated on the Athlone town bus service each year, with over 10,000 passengers now using the service weekly – a 20% increase on 2019 figures.

The new buses will be charged using newly-installed infrastructure supplied with power from the newly-constructed electricity substation within the Bus

Éireann depot on Station Road, Athlone. Construction and installation work was carried out by ESB Smart Energy Services.

“This new fleet in Athlone is a particularly welcome development for Bus Éireann as we continue on our journey to become one of the most sustainable national transport companies in Europe. The operational experience will be invaluable as we expand electric vehicles to other

urban services,” said Stephen Kent, Chief Executive Officer, Bus Éireann. “We are excited to be operating the fleet, which will deliver a more modern, sustainable and comfortable service and provide an enhanced customer experience for passengers. A smoother and quieter ride is welcome as is improved access for persons with reduced mobility.”

In preparing for the commencement of operations, Bus Éireann drivers and mechanics have undergone a comprehensive training programme – more than 500 hours – on the driving, maintenance and operation of the new buses which will deliver emission-free public transport.

FINANCE

FINANCESECTION

IF YOU’D LIKE TO ADVERTISE

CALL US: 064 6632215 OR EMAIL: SALES@KILLARNEYADVERTISER.IE

The Irish investment market is pathetic

this so-called diversification is over-engineering for an extra cost for many long term investors.

But over the last few weeks I have been putting together several investment strategies for Irish-domiciled clients. It has been eye-opening, to say the least. In short, most of the Irish market appears to be dominated by a handful of life insurance companies that offer ‘wrapped’ Multi Asset Funds. This means they offer a basket of stocks, bonds, property etc., all within one investment.

Irish Life’s MAPs 4 multi-asset fund states a standard annual management charge of 1.15%. A bit on the higher side for my liking, but this is still manageable. But when you dig a little deeper, the KID documents (where all fees have to be fully disclosed as part of UCITS regulations) show the fee as 2.2%.

DOUBLE THE QUOTED PRICE

As an added bonus, they lock your money up for seven years, where an early encashment charge is waiting for those who wish to withdraw their money early. That’s right, they charge YOU for making your money inaccessible. This lock-up period is a shrewd business

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.

TO LET: Storage unit to rent in the Killarney area. Please contact Sheila on 087-2944505 for further details.

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

Call 087-2244604.

TO LET: Ensuite room in a house in Killarney

CLASSIFIEDS FOR SALE

FOR SALE: Car trailers of softwood timber, good size loads only €130. Trailer size 8x4ft. Also, car trailers of Ash hardwood timber, neatly split only €170. The best of it delivered everywhere. Contact 087-2744454.

FOR SALE: Due to refurbishment – for sale breakfast room set comprising of ‘Country Pine’ tables and chairs. One lot €600, everything in perfect condition and ready to use. Please contact 087-6956346 between 10am-1pm only.

6 tables -75x75cm and chairs

2 oval tables - 150x90cm and chairs

1 dining table -160x90cm and 6 chairs

tactic. An exit charge is an excellent way to ensure customers don’t leave when they realise how poor the performance is. Too late, you’re trapped.

PERFORMANCE

Fees become more digestible provided the performance is strong, but unfortunately, the misery continues.

The Irish Life MAPS 4 Portfolio has an annual return of 1.63% a year over the last five years. Granted, this was a challenging market climate to navigate, but falling below even the lowest expectations of inflation means that this fund has returned negative real returns after inflation over the last five years.

A similar 60/40 portfolio made up of passive index funds (S&P 500 and US T bonds) would have returned roughly 6.5% a year over the same period for a fee of roughly 0.1%.

We can go round and round in circles regarding the ‘risk adjusted’ approach and the added ‘diversification’ of the multi-asset fund versus the 60/40 portfolio I have shown. But the reality is much of

town centre, with own cooking facilities and TV. Free parking. Female only. Call 0879590635.

TO LET: Single room in Bridgefield, Killarney with parking. Sharing with three other females. One year lease, available from 10th February 2023. Call 087-7606356.

TO LET: 4-bedroom bungalow in Woodlawn, Killarney. Long-term. €1500 per month. Please call 085-8219272 strictly after 6pm.

TO LET: 1-bedroom apartment outside Killarney town. Long-term. Suitable for professional/s/couple only. Tel:086-0266766.

1rectangular table – 120x80cm and chairs.

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

AVAILABLE: DOG WALKER - I walk dogs,

So, how can such pathetic offerings still exist in a system where low-cost operators such as De Giro are providing endless ETF options and commission-free trades that provide access to market returns at a fraction of the price?

TWO REASONS SPRING TO MIND

Firstly, the Irish retail investment scene is built on a financial broker commission system where unsuspecting customers are shoved into these products by ‘financial planners’ who receive kickbacks and commissions from these investment companies. You think you’re getting free investment advice; believe me, you’re not.

Second, the tax treatment of ETF structures is comical in Ireland, and US ETFs aren’t even an investment option. A 41% exit tax and an eight-year deemed disposal rule leaves investors stuck between a rock and a hard place.

Choose an overpriced, underperforming product that locks your money away for multiple years or choose the cheaper,

TO LET: 3-bedroom house near Kilcummin Village. Long-term. Contact 086-6031445

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

giving them the exercise and socialisation, they need to be healthy, fit and happy. Please call 083-1032755.

AVAILABLE: German native and teacher available for German lessons and grinds (many years of experience with all age groups). In person or online. Also offering translation service. For more details contact: 087-6721694.

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

better-performing product and suffer the tax consequences.

Bizarrely, investors are forced to make decisions based on preferential tax treatment rather than on the underlying investment’s merits.

I have gone into much more detail on the tax treatment and investment options in Ireland on my website. Just scan the QR code.

If you would like me to independently review your investment portfolio, just send me an email at mike@theislandinvestor. com.

WANTED: Bedsit or studio for one professional person. Dan 089 4717500.

WANTED: Looking for a small commercial premises to lease in Killarney, on a long-term basis for a new healthcare clinic opening in the town. Minimum 40sqm, with reception and treatment room. Contact Amba on 0851429304.

WANTED: Responsible couple looking for a double bedroom room, apartment or smaller house to rent in Killarney. Phone 0873371560.

Animal Welfare Society) We have several adult cats (all colours) awaiting homes. 0879729240 or 087-9704480.

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.

WANTED

WANTED: Person wanted for general housekeeping duties with some cooking for Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. House is in Muckross Area. Apply Box No.3405.

I lived abroad for years, so all the investment strategies I created were typically outside of Irish tax considerations.

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

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

it's your birthday

Guess who’s 80?

Donie Fleming

Love Caroline, Tara, Deirdre and pat.xxx Birthday wish

DONIE FLEMING

79 St Brendans’s Tce, Killarney

Whos Birthday occurs on the 2\2\2023

He will be 80 years of age.

We thank you dad for what you have done for us.

You were always easy going, never a fuss.

When we were young, you were always there.

With Mam (R.I.P), a happy life we all shared.

When mam passed away it broke your heart.

We were all very sad, but you still did a father’s part.

There were times when you found it hard to make it through.

But mam and all of us were there for you.

If dad had a wish for his 80’th birthday.

It would be that Julianne would be with him on this special day.

Dad loves to have fun and can tell a joke.

We enjoy him all the time, he is an old dote.

All the time we spend together is very precious.

Every day is such a pleasure.

Donie is not just our dad, he is our hero.

And he is till our darling treasure.

Now its your birthday, we will make it a special day.

But it won’t be the same, since mam passed away.

You never wanted presents, that is very true.

But now is the day to make a fuss of you.

Dad we wouldn’t change you for the world. Or for all the pearls in the sea.

We have Heaven here on Earth with you that is true.

God give you health and happiness, and we will always be there for you.

Our childhood memories.

For 18 years we went to Rossbeigh for the last 2 weeks in August every year.

Money was scarce but you and mam saved, we will be there again, have no fear.

3 nights each week to the cinema in Killorglin with our chocolate bars.

While you and mam went for a few jars.

Then mam would collect 2 cooked chickens from Sean Murphy’s Starlite. Back in Glenbeigh, mam would make homemade chips and beans, what a delight.

Then down to the strand to see the rabbits running with the car lights.

God gave us great parents, our childhood we cherished,sunny days and nights.

From all the family who love you very much.

Weekly clinic at Scotts Hotel every Saturday @ 3pm. I am always contactable on 087 2461678

Are you waiting to have your cataract removed and have been told it can take 4 years to have it removed.

Would you like to have your sight back by this Christmas? Then if the answer is YES then please call me or my office today to discuss

If you are traveling in the coming week and discover your passport is out of date please contact me or my office before submitting your application for the best advice. Please note that first time passports are taking 10 weeks to process.

Qualified Accountant - Practice

This is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious accountant to develop their career while gaining experience in a modern and progressive firm. The successful candidate will fulfil a responsible role and assist with the mentoring of trainee team members. There are excellent promotion prospects to progress in our growing firm.

Qualifications/Skills Requirements:

• Qualified ACA / ACCA / CPA with 3 to 5 years experience of working in practice.

• Somebody who embraces new ways of doing things and enjoys a challenge.

• An accountant who enjoys working in practice and the interaction with clients.

What we can offer you:

• A rewarding and friendly working environment in a modern, bright office overlooking Killarney National Park.

• Competitive salary package and stable employment–even in recessionary times.

• Strong in-house training and support as you adapt to our way of working.

• Hybrid working with up to 2 days per week from home.

This is a full-time permanent position with the option of working from home 2 days per week. For more, see www.orourkeandco.ie/careers

To apply, please forward a C.V. and a brief letter of application to seanorourke@orourkeandco.ie

All applications treated in the strictest confidence.

CLOSING DATE: MONDAY 13TH FEB

- Assistant Accommodation Manager

- Night Porter

- Receptionist

- Accommodation Supervisor - Bartender

To apply, submit your detailed CV to hr@greatsouthernkillarney.com

ACROSS

1.

DOWN

1. Tolerated

2. Big

3. Frighten

4. Free-for-alls

5. Compass dir. 6. Rowing needs 7. Chimney part 8. Colorado ski resort 9. Daily grind

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT & 1ST ANNIVERSARY MCNEICE

In loving memory of Peggy Mc Neice (nee O’Keeffe) Fair Hill, Killarney, Co Kerry

Who passed away on 2nd February 2022.

As we lovingly remember Peggy on her first anniversary, we her family, wish to express our sincere gratitude to all who sympathised with us on our sad loss.

Thank you to everyone who sent enrolments, mass cards, online condolences, phone calls, floral tributes and other expressions of kindness and support.

Thank you to everyone who stopped and helped Peggy on the day of her accident. Thanks to the emergency services, the medical and nursing staff and Chaplin of University Hospital Kerry, for the care and compassion shown to our mother and to us, her family, during her final days .

A special thank you to Fr. Vincent Finnegan

O.F.M., Fr Niall Howard and all clergy who concelebrated her Requiem Mass. Their regular visits to her home were a great source of comfort to Peggy. Thank you to everyone who joined us in person and by live stream for the Requiem Mass.

We are deeply grateful to Dr. Donal Coffey and staff of Ross Medical Centre for their kindness and professionalism. Our thanks also to Anthony and his staff at O’Sullivan’s Pharmacy. Sincere thanks to Mary and Michael O’Shea and the staff of O’Shea’s Funeral Home for their kindness, sensitivity and guidance.

We would like to acknowledge Peggy’s many loyal friends .We greatly appreciate their support throughout the years, and in particular since our Dad, Jimmy passed away.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deepest gratitude. The holy sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions.

The Happy hours we once enjoyed

Anniversary

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.

NOVENA TO PADRE PIO

Oh God, through the merits of St. Pio of Pietrelcina the Capuchin Priest who had the great privilege of participating in a unique way in the passion of Your Son, grant me through his intercession the grace of ...... which I ardently desire and above all grant me the grace of living in conformity with the death of Jesus, to arrive at the glory of the resurrection, Glory be to the Father... (3 times) M.S.

2ND ANNIVERSARY CRONIN

In loving Memory of Nora Cronin

Gneeveguilla Upper, Rathmore

Who passed away on 27th January 2021. There is always a face there before us

A voice we would love to hear

A smile we will always remember

Of a Mother we loved so dear.

Deep in our heart lies a picture

More precious than silver or gold

It’s a picture of our Mother

Whose memory will never grow old.

Sadly missed and lovingly remembered always by her daughters, sons, daughters-in-law, sons-in-law, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, all extended family, relations and many friends.

May her gentle soul rest in peace.

2nd Anniversary Mass for Nora is on Saturday 28th January at 7.30pm in Christ the King Church, Knocknagree.

13TH ANNIVERSARY COURTNEY

In loving memory of Michael Courtney “Avanti”, Ardshanavooley, Killarney Who died on 26th January 2010.

You always had a smile to share Time to give, time to care

Someone to talk to, kind and true

One in a million, that was you.

Forever remembered by your loving family sons Paddy, Gary, Mike, Hugh, daughters Nancy, Kathryn, Shelanne, sons-ln-law, daughters-in-law, grandchildren, great grandchildren, sister, relatives and friends.

Always in our hearts.

Anniversary Mass is on Saturday 28th of January at 6:15pm in St. Mary’s Cathedral.

8TH & 21ST ANNIVERSARIES

MURHILL In loving memory of Breda Murhill

Gortahoonig, Muckross and Abbeycourt, Tralee Co. Kerry

Who died on 2nd February 2015

And her mother Margaret Murhill

Gortahoonig, Muckross, Killarney

Who died on 25th January 2002.

In God’s care you rest above

In our hearts you rest with love

Never more than a thought away

Loved and remembered every day.

Loved and remembered every day from all your family with all our love.

Anniversary Mass is on Saturday 29th January at 6:15pm in St. Mary’s Cathedral.

3RD ANNIVERSARY

SLATTERY In loving memory of Ger Slattery Ballyspillane, Killarney

Who died on 30th January 2020. We cannot bring the old days back When we were all together The family chain is broken now But memories live forever.

Loved and remembered every day Mom and Dad, Susan, Irene and families. In life we loved you dearly In death we love you still In our heart’s we hold a place That only you can fill.

Always in our hearts and remembered every day by your wife Josie, sons Adam and Noah and daughter Clodagh.

Anniversary Mass is on Saturday 28th January at 6.15pm in St. Mary’s Cathedral, Killarney.

5TH & 3RD ANNIVERSARIES

O’BRIEN In Loving Memory of Our dear parents Pa & Nora O’Brien

Late of Glounacopple, Kilcummin

Who died on 29th January 2018 and 29th January 2020.

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 fondly remembered by daughters Betty, Maura and Áine, sons Seamus and John Joe, daughter-in-law, sons-in-law and grandchildren.

Anniversary mass is on Saturday 28th January at 7.30pm

In Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Kilcummin.

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.

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

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT & 1ST ANNIVERSARY O’DONOGHUE

In loving memory of Tom Joe O’Donoghue Knocknageeha, Gneeveguilla

Who died on 28th January 2022.

As we lovingly remember Tom Joe on his first anniversary, his wife Peggy, sons, daughters, brother and extended families would like to express our sincere thanks to all who supported us through our grief during this difficult time.

We are grateful to all those who visited, brought refreshments, journeyed to Saint Bridget’s Funeral Home, attended the funeral mass in the Church of Holy Rosary Gneeveguilla, sent messages of condolence online, sent mass cards and flowers and stood along the road on Tom Joe’s final journey.

We would like to express our deep gratitude to Killarney G.P. Surgery, First Responders and staff at Cork University Hospital for their care and professionalism.

We are extremely grateful to Funeral Director Sean O’Mahony and staff for their kindness and support.

Many thanks to Gneeveguilla Athletic Club, Kerry Stars Special Olympics Club and Gneeveguilla GAA Club for respectful guards of honour organised on both days, on the road and in the graveyard.

Thank you to the Gneeveguilla GAA for traffic management in the village and to the Ladies Committee for their help and support.

A very special thanks to Fr.Pat O’Donnell for celebrating a beautiful mass and for all his guidance and compassion throughout the period, and to Donie O’Connor,Sacristan, for his help.

Sincere gratitude to Joan Collins and Sheila Mc Sweeney for their music and hymns in the church, and to Tommy Gleeson and Ciaran O’Sullivan for the beautiful music played in the graveyard after the burial.

We would like to express our thanks to Hickeys Centra, Rathmore for supplying us with refreshments.

To all of you who have helped us through this time, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our sincere gratitude. A mass has been offered for your intensions.

“In the hearts of those who loved you You will always be there.”

Anniversary mass for Tom Joe is on Sunday 29th January at 9.30am in the Church of the Holy Rosary, Gneeveguilla.

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.

MIRACLE PRAYER

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT & 1ST ANNIVERSARY FOGARTY

In loving memory of Sheila Fogarty Green Lawn and St Brendan’s Place, Killarney Who died on 3rd February 2022.

As we remember Sheila on her 1st anniversary, her siblings Katrina, Richard, Gerald and David would like to sincerely thank Sheila’s neighbours and friends in Green Lawn; the First responders and numerous medical teams who assisted Sheila with great care and dignity last year.

Thanks you Mary G and Eva for bringing up her poetry book and her baseball cap at the mass, and her school friends who formed the Guard of Honour.

Thank you to Fr Kieran and Sacristan Tadghie, who made the mass special for Sheila.

To Dr Moloney and the staff of Killarney Medical and the staff in UHK; thank you.

Thanks to Mike and Mary O’Shea and their staff for their professionalism and guidance.

Those who send mass cards, phone calls, RIP messages and offered words of comfort, and brought food to the house, we thank you.

Please accept this acknowledgement as a token of sincere gratitude.

First Anniversary Mass is on Friday 3rd February 2023 at 6.15pm in St Mary’s Cathedral, Killarney.

6TH ANNIVERSARY

O’SULLIVAN

In loving memory of Donal (Donie) O’Sullivan

Who died on 29th January 2017.

If we could visit heaven Even for a day

Maybe for a moment

The pain would go away.

I’d put my arms around you

And whisper words so true

That living life without you

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.

Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by your wife Noreen.

Love says little

But means so much

Love is a feeling, a look, a touch

Love is a gift and I give it to you

From a daughter

Whose heart is broken in two.

Sadly missed and deeply loved by your daughter Helen.

Anniversary Mass is on Sunday 29th January at 11.30am in Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Kilcummin.

2ND ANNIVERSARY CREMIN

In loving memory of A dear son, brother and uncle, Garda Aidan Cremin Adrigole, Co. Cork and Dunloe, Beaufort, Co. Kerry Who died on 19th January 2021.

When tomorrow starts without me

Please try to understand

That an angel came and called my name

And took me by the hand

And said my place was ready In Heaven far above

And that I’d have to leave behind All those I dearly love So when tomorrow starts without me

Don’t think we are far apart For every time you think of me

I’m right here in your heart.

Always loved and remembered by your mother Eileen and family.

2ND ANNIVERSARY

MC GILLICUDDY

7TH ANNIVERSARY KELLIHER In loving memory of Sheila (Mac) Kelliher Clash, Killarney Who died on 31st January 2016.

Lonely is the home without you Life to us is not the same All the world would be like heaven If we could have you back again.

A light from our household gone A voice we loved is still A place is vacant in our home That never can be filled.

May the God of Love and Mercy

Care for our loved one who is gone And bless with consolation Those left to carry on.

The happy hours we once enjoyed How sweet their memory still But death has left a vacant place This world can never fill. How dearly we loved you And prayed you might live But Jesus just beckoned And we had to give.

God gave us strength to bear it And courage to fight the blow What it has meant to lose you God alone will ever know.

Sadly missed and never forgotten by Tomás, Stephen and Ryan. Anniversay Mass for Sheila is on Tuesday 31st January at 6.15 pm in St Mary’s Cathedral, Killarney.

In loving memory of Our dear sister

Catherine McGillicuddy

Late of Bounard, Gneeveguilla

Who died on 27th January 2021.

A daily thought, a silent tear

A constant wish that you were here

An empty place no one can fill We miss you Catherine And always will.

Sadly missed and never forgotten by your loving brothers, John, Mike, Paddy, Timmy, Dan and Denny, sisters-in-law and families.

2ND ANNIVERSARY

MC GILLICUDDY

7TH

ANNIVERSARY

KELLIHER In loving memory of Sheila Kelliher (McGillicuddy) Clash, Lissivigeen, Killarney Who died on 31st January 2016.

Those we love don’t go away They walk beside us every day Unseen, unheard, But always near So loved, so missed, so very dear.

Dear fond memories linger every day of my beautiful sister. Noreen xx

7TH

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT & 1ST ANNIVERSARY TERRY

With love we remember Elizabeth (Lily) Terry (nee Pigot) Curragh, Aghadoe, Killarney Who died on 29th January 2022.

We, Pat, Louise and Mark, wish to acknowledge with gratitude the many expressions of sympathy and gestures of kindness shown to us following our sad loss.

We offer heartfelt thanks to our family, neighbours and many friends who rallied around, and for their support and kindness.

To the doctors and staff at Ross Medical Centre and Liam and staff at Sheehan’s Pharmacy, thank you for your assistance and help.

Thanks to the Home Helps who called on a daily basis.

Thank you to the Matron and staff of Killarney District Hospital for your great care.

To Mary O’Brien and all her staff at Heather Lee Nursing Home, we will never forget the kindness and care you showed Lily.

Thank you to Fr. Niall Geaney and Fr. Tom Looney who co-celebrated Lily’s mass, and Marie and Gobnait for their music and singing.

Thank you to Michael and Mary O’Shea for their compassion and professionalism. Thanks to the Cemetery staff and thanks to Mark and Caroline of the Golden Nugget for the excellent lunch they organised at short notice.

Please accept this acknowledgement of an expression of our heartfelt and sincere gratitude. The holy sacrifice of the mass will be offered for your intentions. “Blessed are the pure of heart, for they shall see God.”

Lily’s First Anniversary Mass is on Sunday 29th January at 10am in the Prince of Peace Church, Fossa. Online link is https://churchmedia.tv/fossa-parish

20TH ANNIVERSARY CREHAN

In loving memory of Catherine Mc Gillicuddy (Nee O’Keeffe) Bounard, Gneeveguilla

Who passed away on 27th January 2021. May she rest in peace

Along the road to suffering

You found a little lane

That took you up to heaven

And ended all your pain.

You may be out of sight

We may be worlds apart

But you are always in our prayers

And forever in our hearts.

Always loved and fondly remembered by your sister-in-law Laura and family.

Miss you xxx

ANNIVERSARY KELLIHER

In loving memory of Sheila Kelliher (McGillicuddy) Clash, Lissivigeen, Killarney Who died on the 31st of January 2016.

A silent thought

A gentle prayer For a special sister In God’s care.

Sadly missed by your brother & friend Sean.

In loving memory of Dr Katherine (Vourneen) Crehan Late of 65 Park Drive, Park Road and Formally of 60 High Street, Killarney Who passed away on 30th January 2003. Aged 49 years.

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

Lovingly remembered by her husband Jim, children Christine, Cóilín and John, and grandchildren.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT & 1ST ANNIVERSARY LOONEY

In loving memory of Timmy Looney Coolgreane Park, Killarney Who died on 25th January 2022.

As we lovingly remember and deeply miss our beloved Timmy on his first anniversary, his wife Nuala, children, Joanne, Paudie and Timmy, son-in-law, daughters-in-law and grandchildren, would like to sincerely thank our family, friends, neighbours and well wishers, who extended their support and kindness during this difficult time.

A special thank you to Michael, our neighbour, who went above and beyond, we are forever grateful.

To everyone who attended the funeral home, requiem mass and burial. To all those who sent mass cards, made phone calls and online condolences on RIP.ie, we thank you all.

We would like to acknowledge and thank all those who helped him during his illness. In particular we would like to express our deepest gratitude to the Intensive Care Unit in UHK, who showed Timmy and all of us great kindness in his last hours.

We would also like to thank Dr. Laura Malone for her care as Timmy’s GP over the years. A special mention for Lisa Kerins whom we would have been elost without over in the hospital.

A very special thank you to Fr. Tom Looney for his guidance and kindness to us, and for making Timmy’s mass so personal and heartfelt. A thank you also to the priests who concelebrated with Fr. Looney and to Taghie Fleming. To Teddy Sugrue for the music in the graveyard.

We wish to thank the undertakers Mike and Mary O’Shea and all their staff for their professionalism, guidance, compassion and respect.

To Timmy’s former work colleagues in the Killarney Council and his club mates of Killarney Legion, who formed a guard of honour, we send you our heartfelt thanks.

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

Loved and sadly missed by your loving wife Nuala.

A PRAYER TO OUR LADY OF MOUNT CARMEL

O most beautiful Flower of Mount Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendour of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me this my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother.

O Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart, to succour me in this necessity; there are none that can withstand your power.

O, show me herein you are my Mother, O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee. (3 times)

Sweet Mother, I place this cause in your hands. (3 times) F.C.

1ST ANNIVERSARY LOONEY

1ST ANNIVERSARY LOONEY

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT & 1ST ANNIVERSARY O’CONNOR

In loving memory of Timmy Looney

Coolgreane Park, Killarney

Who died on 25th January 2022.

The Day You Went Away

They say that time’s a healer

But as the time goes on I seem to find it just as hard

To face the fact you’re gone

And today it’s the anniversary

Of the day you went away I’m standing at your gravside

And believe me when I say

“You will never be forgotten

And every year I’ll shed a tear”

But it’s only because I love you

And wish you were still here.

Your loving son Timmy and daughter-in-law Sharon.

Grandad Your love we miss

Your memory we treasure Love you always Forgetting you never.

Love always Chloe, Keelan and Alexandria.

1ST ANNIVERSARY LOONEY

In loving memory of Timmy Looney Coolgreane Park, Killarney

Who died on 25th January 2022.

Father There is always a face before me

A voice I would love to hear A smile I will always remember Of a father I loved so dear

Deep in my heart lies a picture More precious than silver or gold

It’s a picture of you father Whose memory will never grow old.

Too dearly loved to be forgotten by Joanne and Tony.

1ST ANNIVERSARY LOONEY

In loving memory of Timmy Looney

Coolgreane Park, Killarney

Who died on 25th January 2022.

We thought of you 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

All we have are memories

And your picture in a frame

Your memory is a keepsake

From which we’ll never part

God has you in His arms

We have you in our hearts.

Lovingly remembered by Paudie, Margaret, Stephen, Makaela and Padraic.

11TH ANNIVERSARY CRONIN

In loving memory of A dear brother Dermot Cronin

Late of 4 Marian Terrace, Killarney

Who died on 13th January 2012.

Brother

When last we saw your smiling face

You looked so bright and well

Little did we know that day

It would be our last farewell

If we could only see you for just a little while

To tell you that we miss you

And see your lovely smile

We know you walk beside us

And when our life is through

We pray to God to take our hand

And lead us straight to you.

Always remembered by his sister Maria and all the family.

22ND ANNIVERSARY CONNOLLY

In loving memory of Catherina Connolly nee O’Meara, Late of Ballybrack, Firies, Killarney, Who died on 27th January 2001.

God saw you getting tired

And a cure was not to be

In loving memory of Timmy Looney

Coolgreane Park, Killarney

Who died on 25th January 2022.

No matter how life changes

No matter what we do

A special place within our hearts Is always kept for you.

Sadly missed by his brothers Lewis-John and Paddy, his sisters Kathleen, Ann, Sheila and all their families.

So he put his arms around you

And whispered “Come To Me”

With tearful eyes we watched you

As you passed away

Although we loved you dearly We could not make you stay

A golden heart stopped beating

Hard working hands at rest

God broke our hearts to prove to us

He only takes the best.

Sadly missed by your cousin Anita, Christy and Catherina.

In loving memory of Mary O’Connor Ballaugh, Killarney

Who died on 1st February 2022.

As we lovingly remember Mary on her first anniversary, we her family, would like to express our sincere thanks to everyone who sympathised and supported us on the sad occasion of her passing.

Thanks to everyone who attended the funeral home, the requiem mass and burial. To everyone who sent mass cards, online messages and those who telephoned.

Thanks to Fr. Derek O’Connell for her Rosary and to Fr. Jim Lenihan for her requiem mass.

Finally, thank you to the funeral directors Michael and Mary O’Shea for their professional handling of Mary’s funeral arrangements.

A quiet prayer

A loving nature

A heart of gold

The very best

This world could hold

Never selfish, always kind

These are the memories you left behind

A silent prayer

For a special person

In God’s care.

Always remembered by your family.

1st Anniversary Mass is on Saturday 4th February at 6.15pm in St. Mary’s Cathedral, Killarney.

3RD ANNIVERSARY LUCEY

In loving memory of Denis Lucey

Late of Lisbabe, Headford

Who died on 26th January 2020. Sometimes we just sit quietly Reflecting for a while

Imagining your voice, your face

Your warm and loving smile

For it’s so lovely to recall

The happy times we had

When you played such a special role

As both husband and dad

And at this very special time

We only wish you knew That we’d give all the world today

For one more hour with you

But we still have our memories

And since we’ve been apart It comforts us so much to know

That you’re right here in our hearts.

Sadly missed and forever loved by your loving wife Mag and sons Danny and Sean. xxx

Anniversary Mass is on Sunday 29th January at 11.00am in the Sacred Heart Church, Barraduff.

28TH ANNIVERSARY

LANDERS

24TH ANNIVERSARY REMEMBRANCE

BREEN

25TH ANNIVERSARY SHEEHAN

32ND ANNIVERSARY DOYLE

In loving memory of Orla Landers, Late of Ard Carraig, Lewis Road, Killarney Who passed away on 27th Jan 1995.

Time and years slip gently by But love and memories never die No longer in our lives to share But in our hearts you are always there.

Just a prayer from The family who loved you

Just a memory fond and true

In our hearts you will live forever

Because we thought the world of you. Fondly remembered and forever in the thoughts and prayers of her parents Gerald and Peggy, brothers Billy, Gary, Patrick and Kevin, sisters Evelyn, Deirdre and Aoife and their families.

Suaimhneas Siorraí Da hAnam Ionrac Lach.

Anniversary Mass is on Friday 27th January at 6.15pm in St. Mary’s Cathedral.

6TH ANNIVERSARY O’SULLIVAN

In loving memory of Kathleen O’Sullivan Celbridge, Co. Kildare and Kilcummin, Killarney, Co Kerry

Whose 6th anniversary occurs on 26th January.

Sadly missed and always remembered by your loving family.

Wife

Gone are the days we used to share

But in my heart, you are always there. The gates of memory will never close I miss you more than anyone knows.

Your loving husband, Andrew.

Mom

May the winds of Heaven blow softly and whisper in your ear how much we miss you and wish that you were here.

We love and miss you everyday Mom

Love Sean, Trevor, Clare, Damien and Richard, daughters-in-law Keira, Jennifer, Sarah and son-in-law Peter.

Nanny

Wonderful memories woven in gold

This is a picture we tenderly hold

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

We love and miss you Nanny, Cian, Ava, Evan, Daniel, Saoirse, Peter, Jack, Annabelle and Kate.

Kathleen’s Anniversary mass is on Sunday 5th February at 11.30am in Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Kilcummin

JESUS

May your Sacred Heart Lord Jesus, be praised, glorified and honoured throughout the whole world now and forever. Repeat this 3 times. E.S.

In loving memory of Jacqueline Breen, Late of 95 Pinewood Estate, Killarney Whose anniversary occurred on 23rd January.

So many things have happened Since you were called away So many things to share with you Had you been left to stay.

Every day in some small way Memories of you come our way Though absent, you are ever near Still missed, loved and always dear.

Forever in our hearts

Love from Dad, all the family, extended family and friends. xxx

Anniversary Mass is on Saturday 28th January at 6.15pm in St Mary’s Cathedral, Killarney.

19TH ANNIVERSARY

GRIFFIN

Cherished memories of Con Sheehan

Late of Crosstown, Glenflesk

Whose anniversary occurs on 28th January.

We never fail to pray for you

We never cease to care

We wish we could go home again And find you waiting there.

They say there is no reason

They say that time will heal But neither time nor reason Will change the way we feel.

We want to tell you something So there wont be any doubt

You’re so wonderful to think of But very hard to be without.

Loved and remembered Mam, Dad, Helena, Donal, Mike, EileenPat and Joanne.

Anniversary mass is on Monday 30th January at 9.30am in the Church of Resurrection.

55TH ANNIVERSARY

HICKEY (NEE BUCKLEY)

In loving memory of Donie Griffin

Late of 35 Daltons Avenue, Killarney and Acworth, Georgia, USA Who died on 1st February 2004.

Remember him with a smile today

He wasn’t one for tears

Reflect instead on memories

Of all the happy years

Recall to mind the way he spoke

And all the things he said His strength, his wisdom, the way he was Remember them instead.

Sadly missed and always remembered by your family at home, in the USA and in England.

Anniversary Mass is on Saturday 4th February at 6.15pm in St.Mary’s Cathedral, Killarney.

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.

G.M

PRAYER TO THE VIRGIN MARY

Remember, Oh most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known, that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help or sought they intercession was left unaided, inspired by this confidence I fly to thee Oh Virgin of Virgins my Mother, to thee do I come, before thee I stand sinful and sorrowful. Oh Mother of the word incarnate despise not my petition but in thy clemency hear and answer me. Amen. D.G.

In loving memory of My dear sister Noreen Hickey (nee Buckley)

Late of Dalton’s Avenue and St Brendan’s Place, Killarney

Who died on 20th January 1968. “Forever Young”

Those we love remain with us For love itself lives on

And cherished memories never fade Because a loved one’s gone

Down the path of memories

We gently thread today

Our thoughts and prayers are with Noreen As life goes on it’s way.

Always remembered by Sheila and family.

72ND & 74TH ANNIVERSARIES

KELLY In loving memory of Our grandparents

Mike Kelly

Who died on 29th January 1951 and his wife

Agatha O’Donoghue Kelly

Who died on 13th January 1949

Late of 4 New Lane, Killarney.

We will always have memories

To cherish and hold

Of wonderful grandparents

More precious than gold

Time passes, memories stay

Quietly remembered everyday.

From your grandchildren Mike, Kathleen, Patrick and Maura.

In loving memory of Our beautiful daughter and sister Elaine Doyle

Upper Lissivigeen, Killarney

Who died on 31st January 1991.

Special memories hold you near As time rolls back another year So much to share so much to say

We carry you in our hearts each day

No matter what, no matter where You are always there

Unseen, unheard you are always near Still loved, still missed, still very dear

Your beautiful smile

Your special ways

Are remembered with love everyday Elaine.

Sadly missed and lovingly remembered always by Mam, Dad, sisters Gillian, Orla and Miriam, brother Padraig, brother-in-law Kieran, sister-in-law Christina, nieces and nephews.

Anniversary Mass is on Saturday 28th January at 6.15pm in St. Mary’s Cathedral, Killarney.

8TH & 5TH ANNIVERSARIES

O’KEEFFE

In loving memory of Con O’Keeffe

Who died on 22nd January 2015 and his loving wife Noreen

Who died on 3rd February 2018.

No words we write can ever say

How much we miss you every day No one knows the grief we bear When the family gather And your not there.

We laugh, we talk, we play the part But beyond the sorrow are broken hearts

The sorrow we feel We can never explain And the ache in our hearts Will always remain.

In God’s care ye rest above In our hearts ye rest with love Time passes, memories stay Quietly remembered every day Forever in our hearts and prayers. Sadly missed by all the family.

Anniversary mass is on Saturday 28th January at 6:15pm in St. Mary’s Cathedral, Killarney.

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

| By Adam Moynihan

SPORT

SAME AGAIN, PLEASE

A start-of-season survey carried out by the Killarney Advertiser has revealed Kerry supporters’ expectations ahead of the 2023 campaign, which gets underway on Sunday with a league match against Donegal.

Kerry enjoyed a perfect year in 2022 as Jack O’Connor led his team to glory in the National League, Munster Championship and All-Ireland Championship. It would be an incredible achievement to replicate that success again this time around, but some supporters seem to think that it can be done.

Around 73% of those polled believe that Kerry will reach another All-Ireland final, with the majority (42%) predicting

that Sam Maguire will be staying in the Kingdom for another year at least. Just under a quarter of respondents (23%) think that Kerry will fall at the semi-final stage, however, with the remainder (4%) anticipating a quarter-final or round robin exit.

That’s what supporters expect to happen, but what would they be happy with? When asked what would constitute a “good year” for Kerry in 2023, 54% stated that only an All-Ireland will do. A further 32% said they would be content with another All-Ireland final appearance. So, effectively, the vast majority of Kerry supporters (86%) won’t be happy unless their team at

least makes it to the All-Ireland final on July 30.

Neighbours Cork gave Kerry a real hiding in the McGrath Cup at the beginning of this month but it appears as though fans from this side of the county bounds are placing little stock in that particular result. Over 96% of supporters expect Kerry to win their provincial championship. A very small minority (3%) are fearing the worst, i.e. Cork winning Munster.

Expectations are lower for the immediate future, however. With several players out injured and others - including star player David Clifford - being rested, most fans reckon Kerry will finish

mid-table in Division 1 of the National League. Over half of the readers who responded to our survey (52%) think Kerry will finish 3rd or 4th in the eight-team pool, with roughly one-in-five expecting a 5th or 6th place finish.

Despite the lengthy list of absentees, 21% of supporters are still optimistic that Kerry can retain their Division 1 title. At the other end of the scale, around 1.4% think Kerry will be relegated. Jack O’Connor’s side travel to Ballybofey on Sunday for their first competitive outing of the season. Throw-in is at 2pm with the match being televised live on TG4.

— 73% of readers expect Kingdom to reach another All-Ireland final — Majority anticipating tough league but 20% believe Kerry will win it

FINAL: The Kerry team parade before the 2022 All-Ireland final against Galway. Kerry fans are hoping for some more big days out in Croke Park in 2023. Photo: Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile.

Follow Adam on Twitter @AdamMoynihan

‘We might have to temper expectations’

Kerry

Last year, in his first year back in charge of Kerry since 2011, Jack O’Connor cut a content figure. The Dromid man has a reputation for being tough, perhaps even a little spiky at times, but he was rarely anything but genial in 2022.

Of course, presiding over a winning team helped. Kerry hit their targets and secured a long-awaited All-Ireland title. There was, frankly, nothing to be spiky about.

This year will prove to be more difficult, however. Speaking to journalists in the pavilion at Austin Stack Park on Monday night, O’Connor was still in good form - but he had some sobering words of warning for the green and gold faithful.

First of all, the Kerry manager laid out the ramifications of losing David Moran, the veteran midfielder who retired that morning.

“He was a real leader in the dressing room, a kind of father figure to the players. And they looked up to him,” O’Connor noted.

“It’s going to be a big loss from a football point of view and also from a morale and leadership point of view.”

There is no such thing as a good time to lose someone of Moran’s stature but with Diarmuid O’Connor a “medium-term” absentee due to injury and another midfield option, Joe O’Connor, out for the season with an ACL injury, Kerry’s midfield must be an area of real concern.

And it’s not just the middle sector where Kerry are down bodies. O’Connor indicated that roughly nine of his starters from last year’s All-Ireland final will miss Sunday’s league opener against Donegal.

Gavin White (knee) is back running on the pitch but he is still, in his manager’s words, “a bit away from it yet”.

Seán O’Shea and Stephen O’Brien are unavailable due to injuries sustained during the club season. Paul Geaney is recovering from a procedure on his ankle. The Cliffords will not feature in the opening two rounds of the league.

Shane Ryan may be rested after a long season with county and club.

The bottom line is that the Kerry team we see in the coming weeks will look very different to the one that conquered Ireland in 2022. Anyone who watched the McGrath Cup defeat to Cork and the narrow victory over Clare could see that the players were off the pace. The team’s end-of-year holiday meant they trained just twice prior to the Cork match. With all that in mind, it has to be said that winning Division 1 and completing the two-and-a-halfin-a-row (the 2021 league was shared with Dublin) is a tall order.

When asked if a midtable finish would be a reasonable outcome for Kerry, O’Connor agreed that that was a “fair enough assessment”.

“Last year we had a new management and we were trying to do a few new things with the players, and we set out our stall to be very competitive from the off. I think this year we recognise that we’re probably a bit behind the curve training wise so it might be that we’ll have to temper our expectations a bit.

“It doesn’t mean that we won’t be going out trying to win every game. We’ll be going flat out to win every game and be as competitive as we can. But the fact that we’ll have to train pretty hard through the league might affect some of our performances.”

The fact that so many regular starters are unavailable means that several fringe players will get extended playing time in the next few weeks. O’Connor is taking this as a positive rather than a negative, drawing inspiration from his very first campaign as Kerry manager in 2004.

“In ’04 we were missing the five Gaeltacht players for the bones of the league. It was through that league that we found the Paul Galvins and Aidan O’Mahonys and those fellas. I often asked myself after, ‘would we have found those fellas or played those fellas if we had all the other lads involved?’

“It does give you opportunities. It’s a great incentive for some of the panel players last year, and some of the new lads, to have a cut.”

YEAR 2: Kerry manager Jack O'Connor has outlined the challenges facing Kerry in the upcoming National League campaign.

Photo: Eóin Noonan/ Sportsfile.

boss O’Connor says mid-table finish would be reasonable

O’Leary wins it at the death

The Kerry ladies got their Division 1 campaign off to a winning start thanks to tense and hard-fought one-point victory over Waterford on Sunday last.

Last year’s All-Ireland finalists were pushed all the way in Piltown, Co Kilkenny by a Déise outfit who found themselves up against it at the end of the first half. A goal by Kerry captain Síofra O’Shea along with points by the lively Niamh Carmody and Lorraine Scanlon had The Kingdom 1-3 to no score ahead in the first quarter. Losing Carmody to injury was a blow, however, and Waterford responded with a goal of their own and a couple of points. Three more overs by O’Shea left the scores at 1-7 to 1-3 at the interval.

The second half proved to be frustrating for the Division 1 newcomers who struggled to create scoring chances despite the introduction of several key players, including All-Stars Louise Ní Mhuircheartaigh and Cáit Lynch. The difficult underfoot conditions certainly didn’t help, although Waterford, to their credit, were able to manufacture a string of

points and really test Kerry’s nerve. The nominated home team had momentum on their side heading into the final few minutes. It appeared as though they were set to force at least a draw, but a well-worked move in the 63rd minute that involved Ní Mhuircheartaigh and O’Shea set the stage for Danielle O’Leary to take the all-important shot. The Rathmore woman shimmied one way and then the other before firing over an excellent right-footed point from a central position. With that decisive act, victory was secured and the two points came home to Kerry. Next up for Declan Quill and Darragh Long’s side is another away trip, this time to the Mayo Centre of Excellence to take on the team they defeated in last year’s All-Ireland semi-final. Mayo v Kerry will take place on Saturday at 12.45pm. The match will be shown live on TG4.

Can Cougars dent Lakers’ playoff hopes?

NATIONAL LEAGUE DIVISION 1

Scotts Lakers v Killarney Cougars

Saturday at 7.30pm

Killarney Sports & Leisure Centre

The Killarney Cougars are still searching for their first win of the 2022/23 season. What better place to get it than at the home of their fiercest rivals?

With 12 defeats from their first 12 games, the Cougars have little to play for apart from pride. The Lakers, on the other hand, are enjoying a good run of form that has propelled them into the playoff picture. Recent wins against the Waterford Vikings, the Cougars, and SETU Carlow have been encouraging, although Jarlath Lee and his charges know they still need to win the majority of their remaining eight games to stay in the frame.

in the second quarter.

Coach Patrick O’Regan will be hoping that team leaders Darren Townes, Esebio Strijdhaftig and Andrew Fitzgerald can inspire the Cougars to a famous win. The Lakers, meanwhile, will be expecting another big performance from star American Jack Ferguson. Young players Jamie O’Sullivan and Ronan Collins have also impressed of late.

The match will be preceded by the Women’s National League fixture between St Paul’s and Swords Thunder.

MATCH WINNER: Danielle O'Leary, who scored the winning point against Waterford last weekend, in action against Mayo in last year's All-Ireland semi-final. Kerry play Mayo again this Saturday. Photo: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile.

Despite their lack of wins, the Cougars can take heart from their recent showings against the Lakers. Last season at the Aura they mounted a stirring late fightback that ultimately came up short. In the most recent meeting between the sides, which took place at the Pres Gym earlier this month, they led up until late

New PB for Leahy in Czech Republic

Kerry’s fastest woman ever is getting even faster. Sarah Leahy from the Killarney Valley club was in action at the Jablonec Indoor event in the Czech Republic on Saturday, the first World Athletics Indoor Tour Bronze meeting in Europe in 2023.

Leahy ran a new personal best of 7.32 seconds in the 60m, coming in second behind internationally renowned British sprinter Dina Asher-Smith.

Asher-Smith, who has several World Championship and Olympic medals to her name, ran a blistering PB of 7.09 – a mere 0.03 shy of the British record held

by Asha Philip.

Leahy’s new PB places her eighth alltime in the Irish rankings for the 60m. Meanwhile, Leahy’s clubmate Oisín Lynch won the 800m race in Round 2 of the National Indoor League after registering an impressive time of 1 minute 57 seconds.

Following five league wins on the bounce, Paul’s are on track for the much-coveted top-two finish that would secure a berth in the post-season. With Sofia Paska and Yuleska Tejeda to the fore and local girls Rheanne O’Shea, Lynn Jones and Leah McMahon making valuable contributions, James Fleming’s team will be keen to build even more momentum as we head towards the business end of the season.

St Paul’s versus Swords Thunder tips off at 4.30pm.

SPEED: Sarah Leahy is now the eighth fastest Irish woman ever in the 60m.

Photo: Ben McShane/Sportsfile

SQUAD: The Killarney Cougars will make the short trip across town to play the Lakers.

Stacks keeper Guthrie switches codes

Kerry FC have confirmed what is perhaps their most eye-catching signing to date. The newly formed club have been steadily unveiling a string of new players over recent weeks as they assemble a squad that they hope will be competitive in the 2023 League of Ireland season.

Players with League of Ireland experience like Matt Keane, Seán McGrath, and Seán Kennedy have already been announced but on Tuesday they made waves across codes with the arrival of Austin Stacks goalkeeper Wayne Guthrie.

Guthrie played soccer for Ireland underage and had a trial at Peterborough before going on to represent Tralee Dynamos in the old League of Ireland A Championship.

He subsequently dedicated himself to Gaelic football with Stacks. After playing out the field for many years, he went back in goal in recent seasons (to great effect it must be said). He was a key player on the Stacks team that won the 2021 Kerry Senior Football Championship.

Guthrie, who was a two-year minor in 200 is a big loss to the Connolly Park club - that’s if we are to assume that his

soccer commitments will preclude him from playing GAA later in the year.

Speaking upon signing for the Mounthawk Park club, the Tralee man said that soccer has always been his “first love”.

“If Kerry FC had happened years ago I would have given my all to wear the Kerry soccer jersey. I’m delighted that Billy and his team have given me the opportunity to prove I am still able to play

SPORTS ON TV THIS WEEKEND

and I’m looking forward to the season ahead.”

Kerry manager Billy Dennehy revealed that Guthrie made the first move. “When Kerry FC got the green light, Wayne reached out to us here and expressed a real desire to come in and be a part of [the club]. He came in training for a couple of weeks and showed a great attitude and determination.

“Because of that, we are very happy to give him the opportunity to be involved in the club and I’m excited to see how he adapts to us and the environment.”

On Wednesday Kerry also confirmed the signing of another goalkeeper with GAA experience. 21-year-old netminder Callan Scully represented Tipperary at minor and U20 level. Soccer is his main sport, though, and he has previously lined out for Limerick FC in the League of Ireland and the UCC team that competes in the Munster Senior League.

CELTIC

In other soccer news, Killarney Celtic have been drawn to play Tallaght United in the last 16 of the FAI Junior Cup. The match will take place the weekend of February 11/12 at Tallaght’s home ground, Ballymount Park.

Celtic advanced to the last 16 following a fine 1-0 victory away to Peake Villa of Waterford. Stephen McCarthy broke the deadlock not long before half-time and a spirited display saw the Hoops hold on to that slender lead to book their place in the next round.

The Killarney club have experienced great success in the FAI Junior Cup in recent years, frequently reaching the latter stages.

Some familiar names also featured in Wednesday’s last 16 draw. The likes of Regional United, Newmarket Celtic, Ballynanty Rovers, Fairview Rangers, Avenue United and St Michael’s will all fancy their chances of making the last eight.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 27

DARTS ITV4 7pm The Masters SOCCER Sky Sports Football 7.30pm RB Leipzig v Stuttgart

RUGBY RTÉ 2 7.35pm Ulster v Stormers

SOCCER Premier Sports 1 8pm Man City v Arsenal

SATURDAY, JANUARY 28

TENNIS Eurosport 1 8am Australian Open

LGFA TG4 12.15pm Mayo v Kerry

RUGBY TG4 2.30pm Benetton v Munster

GAA TG4 5pm Dublin v Kildare

RUGBY RTÉ 2

Leinster v Cardiff

Farmers Insurance Open BOXING BT Sport 1 7pm Artur Beterbiev v Anthony Yarde

GOLF Sky Sports Golf

GAA RTÉ 2 7.30pm Mayo v Galway

RUGBY TG4 7.35pm Connacht v Lions

SOCCER Premier Sports 1 & ITV4 8pm Man Utd v Reading

Sky Sports Arena 8pm Nuggets-76ers

SOCCER BBC 1

SUNDAY, JANUARY 29

Match of the Day

F1 Sky Sports F1 11am Race of Champions

DARTS ITV4 12.45pm The Masters

SOCCER Premier Sports 1 1.30pm Brighton v Liverpool

GAA TG4 1.30pm Donegal v Kerry

GAA TG4 4.05pm Roscommon v Tyrone (deferred)

GAA TG4 5.35pm Cork v Meath (deferred)

NFL Sky Sports NFL 8pm 49ers-Eagles

GAA RTÉ 2 9.30pm League Sunday

TRANSFER: Austin Stacks keeper Wayne Guthrie (in black) has signed for Kerry FC. Photo: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile.

COMÓRTAS: Gavin White, Pádraig Óg Ó Sé and Cáit Lynch at Inch Beach for the launch of the Lidl Comórtas Peile Páidí Ó Sé 2023.

New survey reveals big

Eamonn Fitzgerald reflects on important new data that sheds light on the betting habits of Irish sportspeople

Imagine a sports player spending €10,000 in one day of betting. In a recent study, two elite GAA players did just that, and 14 more said they had put down bets worth €1,000 per day.

Another 14% (84 elite players) disclosed that their biggest bet was between €1,00 and €1,000, and just under half never bet more than €10.

These figures emerged from a very fine study by Dr Kieran Murray and Dr Colm Murphy, who said this is higher than the rate for the general Irish population, and the rate among professional athletes in Europe.

The study of 608 senior intercounty GAA players (hurling and football) was carried out in consultation with the Gaelic Players Association and Women's Gaelic Players Association. Dublin footballer Dr Jack McCaffrey also assisted. Yes, the flying halfback who is returning to the Dublin team in a bid to prevent Kerry from retaining Sam.

This problem of gambling is not specific just to the GAA, but it transcends all sports and most likely at all levels including club level.

One thinks that gambling is associated mainly with horse racing, but this study reveals the extent of it in the GAA.

I think that gambling is a danger for professional soccer players. Some overpaid soccer stars who have so much money and little else to do all day except for the

few hours of training may well turn to gambling.

PRO-ACTIVE

The GAA continues to be very pro-active on this issue and for the Healthy Clubs within the organisation, it is mandatory to have a policy on gambling.

The research also showed that 20% of the tested players were unaware that betting is against the rules of the GAA for players to bet on matches where they themselves are playing. There is also the added danger of match-fixing.

The majority of respondents were male, unmarried, non-smokers, in full-time employment, had completed university, and were living with their parents. Most of the research sample were on average 24 years old.

One can note different types such as the professional gambler, the social gambler, and the problem gambler. Doing the local lotto, scratch cards, bingo, or a few euro on the Grand National by sticking a pin on the list of runners and riders is not gambling per se.

McCONVILLE

Oisín McConville always made the point that the fiver bet in their chat on the bus to a game cannot be viewed as gambling. Several GAA players have gone public on their gambling issues, but McConville is the highest-profile GAA personality to do so.

20% of the players were unaware that betting on matches in which they are playing is not allowed.

ISSUES: Oisín McConville at an Armagh press night in 2002. The free-scoring forward was secretly battling a gambling addiction. Photo: Damien Eagers/Sportsfile.

gambling problem

He wants to highlight the inherent dangers of heavy gambling and avoid falling into the gambling habit that broke his pocket and spirit. I remember him saying that his gambling was awful but in his gambling days he had to go into the bookies and peel out those notes - too many of them.

Now, the internet facilitates the silent slippery slope with the ability to bet any time of the day or night. There are races or other events in progress in some parts of the world when it’s 2am Irish time. All the gambler needs is a phone. Another contributing factor would be the abuse of alcohol or drugs and the rise of online banking. In moments of bravado and in search of the buzz, the gambler

has little choice but to tap in the figure and add the zeros.

This study of 608 players is a very representative sample on which to base trends, predictions, and conclusions.

Out of the 608 senior intercounty players questioned in the study, 79% laid bets. It doesn’t specify clearly if any of the cohort of gamblers were addicted gamblers (i.e. gambling to a degree that compromises, disrupts, or damages personal, family, or recreational pursuits).

What is also disturbing is that 0.8% of the general population of Ireland are gamblers, but this group of 608 inter-county players has a problem gambling rate of 4.8%. Are they more vulnerable than the ordinary person? After all, they live in

the fast lane and seek the buzz to escape pressures.

As with other elite sportspeople, levels of problem gambling among elite GAA players are above the population baseline and 79pc of players were currently gamblers,” said Dr Kieran Murray. One player in the study said gambling is a huge problem in the GAA. "I'm a compulsive gambler myself… in dressing rooms at training, or on buses to matches, it is the core of the conversation for a high percentage of players. I feel it needs to be addressed further,”

Another concern for all sports bodies is the temptation or the reality of players gambling on matches in which they are playing. That opens a whole new unwelcome scenario.

The downside is that too often there is the glorification of the one who gambles, abuses drugs, and drinks too much. Fortunately, the vast majority of sportspeople are careful and sensible, knowing the difference between use and abuse, avoiding the pitfalls of gambling in this case.

No such proper, detailed, scientific research has been done on the issue of gambling for players at club levels in all sports. Anecdotal evidence suggests that it would prove to be a very worthwhile thesis for a Masters or a PhD.

BOOK

An All-Ireland winner for Crossmaglen and Armagh, McConville wrote his autobiography, The Gambler, in 2007. It is an excellent insight into the mind of a gambler.

He trained as an addiction counsellor and has done marvellous work in schools and with some other groups. He readily admits how he took every penny from his mother’s purse to gamble on a racing “certainty”. Like all such addictions, he thought he could solve his problems of debt. He didn’t. The horse didn’t win. What is remarkable is how he was able to keep his place on the All-Ireland winning Armagh team of 2002. It was their first title. Remember they defeated Kerry by a single point, 1-12 to 0-14, and McConville was the top scorer in the championship that year. He was 27 years old at the time. He starred in that final, yet he was heavily in debt at the time. He reckoned that eventually he owed 100k. I am not sure if that was euro or sterling. Whatever it was, it was a massive debt.

He never lost his place on the record-breaking Crossmaglen team that won 13 Armagh titles in a row from 19962012. On his last day gambling, McConville put €20,000 on a horse and lost it all.

“Football kept me alive. I belonged there, and I could express myself there and was

valued there, whereas outside I wasn’t worth anything,” he said. “When I togged out I knew I was safe and that I didn’t need to gamble. No one was ringing looking for money. No one was giving me a tip for a horse I felt I had to back.”

In 2005 he found the courage to go to a 12-week residential course in Cuan Mhuire, the centre for addiction sufferers that Sr Concilia Fitzgerald founded in 1966. Little did Eileen Fitzgerald think when she was growing up in her native Brosna, that she would be hailed as the Kerry nun who befriended the homeless, the marginalised, and the addicted because she said they were good people.

Invariably, McConville’s talks drew a tension-relieving laugh when he wonders “what in the hell does a nun know about gambling?” He had been feeding his gambling habit for 16 years; now he was on a relief road to recovery. Gamblers Anonymous was also a great help.

Gambling is a problem in sports and this study is a very welcome report and a warning signal to society in general of how lives are affected. Not just the life of the gambler, but also the lives of his/her family, workmates and friends.

Most sportspeople avoid the addiction of gambling, but for the very small percentage that fall into this silent trap. his is a timely and welcome eye-opener to sportspeople, players, their families and also to administrators.

McConville is the new manager of the Wicklow football team.

Sr Concilio has been honoured on so many occasions for her work, including Kerry Person of the Year (1996), being voted Radio Kerry’s ‘Greatest Kerry Person of All-Time’ (2005), getting an MBE, and in 2019 she was awarded the Human Dignity Award by the Irish Government. The 86-year-old miracle nun still helps so many people to manage their addictive practises.

DAVID MORAN

There is a time to go and David Moran made the correct decision going out on a high on the greatest stage, lording the exchanges for Kerins O’Rahillys in Croke Park.

He is a huge loss to Jack O’Connor’s plans to shore up the midfield for 2023. In my view David Moran was the best midfielder in club football in Kerry for the past number of years. He had his highs and plenty of lows including ACL injuries (not once, but twice) and the injury that knocked him out of the 2021 county final, the all-Tralee derby. I believe they would have won that final if he had not been injured.

Well done, David. The DNA shone through for yourself and Ogie in the green and gold geansaí.

INTERCOUNTY STAR: McConville in action for the Orchard County in 1999.

Photo: Ray McManus/Sportsfile.

Killarney Celtic

RESULTS: FAI Junior Cup - Peake Villa 0 Killarney Celtic 1 (Stephen McCarthy).

U13 Premier - Killarney Celtic 4 Ballyhar Dynamos 0 (Stephen Shine, Marco Mosca, Kiernan Kelly, Daniel O’Sullivan). U13 Div 1 - Killarney Celtic B 2 Camp Juniors 3 (Jason Harrington, Simon Siriotiak).

GIRLS: U14 Premier - Camp Juniors 3 Killarney Celtic 2 (Amelia Carroll Kelly, Sadbh O’Halloran).

Mastergeeha

U10: Mastergeeha v Ballyhar Dynamos. After all the bad weather our group finally got to play their nearest neighbours in a blitz. There were goals galore in all games and fantastic goalkeepers keeping the ball out of the net. No shortage of skills and both teams are developing well. All played great soccer on the day. Thanks to all the players and parents for participating and supporting. Thanks to Ivan Fleming, John Callaghan and Kieran Cremin for their help. A big thank you to Ballyhar Dynamos for hosting the blitz.

LOTTO: There was no winner on January 20 of the Jackpot for €7,600. Numbers drawn were 8, 9, 11, 21. Consolation prizes of €50 went to Therese Counihan (online), John Foran (online), Ger Healy, Carmel O’Riordan c/o Post Office. The next draw will be Jan 27 for Jackpot of €7,800.

MEK Galaxy

U12 GIRLS PREMIER: MEK Galaxy 5 Fenit 0. Great display by our premier girls. Scorers: Ava Harty, Isabelle O'Connor, Emily Allen, Elise Brunner and Megan Quigg.

U12 DIVISION 1: Our girls were beaten when met a very strong Tralee Dynamos side. It was a tough day for our girls but they kept working hard. Sinead Curran & Tara O'Connell were POTM.

BOYS: U13 premier Tralee Dynamos 6 MEK Galaxy 1. A tough day out for our lads. A strong Tralee Dynamos took control early and 15 mins into the first half were 3-0 ahead. MEK pulled one back with a great strike from Cade Jameson. MEK had chances to equalise but failed to take their chances. Due to poor defending of corner kicks Dynamos struck twice more before half time leaving MEK Trailing 5-1. The second half was better for MEK but we could not stop Dynamos adding a sixth with 13 mins to go. Our lads kept trying but today was not our day. Dara Tagney and Cade Jameson were the best for MEK with Dara Tagney taking our player of the match for a great display as a defensive midfielder.

U13 DIVISION 2: Tralee Dynamos 4 MEK Galaxy 1. Great improvement being shown by the MEK lads. It was 3-0 to dynamos at half time but in a spirited second half Oisin Nagle scored a penalty for MEK before Dynamos got their 4th. Player of the Match for MEK was Thomás Lynch.

U15 PREMIER: Tralee Dynamos 2-3 MEK Galaxy. Goals scored by Danny Murphy, Cillian O’Donoghue and Jayden Fennell. A vital result for our U15s who got back to winning ways after a few narrow defeats. After a poor start to the match where we conceded a penalty in the first 5 mins, we created plenty of opportunities (especially from corner kicks where amazingly we didn't score despite numerous great chances) eventually we equalized through a Danny Murphy goal. In the second half we again had plenty of opportunities but again found ourselves behind when we didn't clear our lines properly and a fantastic finish by the Dynamos forward from distance saw us fall behind. However, we weren't behind for long because of a brilliant goal scored by Cillian O’Donoghue from well outside the box gave the keeper no chance. Soon after Jayden put us in the lead for the 1st time with a good finish. Despite more chances the match finished in a 3-2 win. Man of the Match was David McCarthy who gave a brilliant performance in the middle of the pitch, with strong performances also from Danny Murphy, Kevin Coffey and Shay McCormick.

U15 DIVISION 1: Mastergeeha 1 MEK B 1. Good result by our lads. David O’Shea scorer for MEK.

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

CLUB EXECUTIVE: Chairman Dave Randles heads up the Clubs Executive Committee and he will be joined in 2023 by the following: Lara O’Brien (Club Secretary), Liam McGuire (Vice Chairman), John Foran (Club Treasurer), Fiona Ni Chonchubhair (Registrar), Enda Walshe (PRO), Linda O’Donoghue (Childrens Officer), Donal O’Leary (Juvenile Committee Chairman), Ted Healy (Ladies Club Chairperson), Oonagh Moynihan (Ladies Club Secretary), Donal Culloty (County

Board Delegate), John Hegarty (East Kerry Board Delegate), Eamon Maguire (Field and Facilities Committee Chairman), Shaun O’Connor (Finance Committee Chairman), Brian Kelly (Senior Men's Rep), Mairead O’Donoghue (Senior Ladies Rep), Joanne O’Riordan (Advisor).

EAST KERRY SUPER LEAGUE: Our Senior Men will have their first outing in Division 1A of the East Kerry Superleague on Sunday, February 12 in Direen where Firies will be the opposition. Kilcummin, Kenmare and Gneeveguilla complete the line up and the remaining games will serve very useful in the lead up to the County League. In Division 1B will be Fossa, Glenflesk, Dr Crokes, Rathmore and Listry. The team that finishes top in each group qualifies for the League final proper. The County League is pencilled in to start on the weekend of March 18/19 and will continue until early July.

JUVENILE BOYS UPDATE: The Club Executive assembled for the first time last Wednesday evening, January 18, where a range of topics were discussed and management teams for the year were ratified. With the Juvenile boys age groups still at the odd ages of U11, U13, U15 and U17 for the time being we wish the following the very best of luck in the year ahead.

U11 Boys: Eamon Maguire, John Keane, Donal O’Donoghue, Colin O’Brien. U13 Boys: Fergal Moynihan, Joe Hurley, Marcus Twomey, Eoghan McSweeney, Conor Myles, Ted Healy, Caroline Cox. U15 Boys: Enda Murphy, Sean Culloty, Brian Looney, Peter O’Leary, Denny Murphy. U17 Boys: Nigel Shevlin, John Bowler, Donal Culloty, Mike Pierce, Alan O’Neill. It is envisaged that there will be further additions to some of the management and indeed some of the age groups may field a second team.

Spa GAA

CAIRDE SPA DRAW is on next Thursday, February 2 at the clubhouse with special guests GAA President Larry McCarthy

and the Sam Maguire Cup. Tickets can be collected/returned at the clubhouse on Saturday (10.30am-12noon), Monday (7-8pm) or Wednesday (7-8pm) or can be purchased online on spagaa.com. Any queries please contact Andy (087 2236754), Michael (085 8213027), Assumpta (087 6779292) or Deirdre (085 1216359). Thank you for your ongoing support of Spa GAA Club.

SCÓR: Anyone is interested in participating in 2023 Scór, please contact Scor Officer Eileen Aherne on 087 9940594 by Friday, Jan 27.

LOTTO: No winner and Jackpot next Monday is €4,200. Play on spagaa.com or in usual outlets.

SPA KILLARNEY HANDBALL CLUB: Open Night on Monday, February 6 at 7pm in the Spa sports hall.

IRELAND LIGHTS UP on Wednesday evenings between 6-8pm. Everyone welcome.

2023 REGISTRATION is open on spagaa. com. Membership rates remain the same as last year.

GOOD LUCK to Dara Moynihan, Dan O’Donoghue, Shane Cronin and the Kerry team and management against Donegal this Sunday in Rd 1 of the National League (2pm in Ballybofey).

KERRY LGFA: Congrats to Cassandra Buckley and the Kerry Ladies on their win against Waterford in Rd 1 of the LGFA National League. Good luck in Rd 2 this Saturday against Mayo (12.15pm, away). CONGRATULATIONS to Ryan Kelliher who has signed for Kerry FC.

SPA PRO: We're currently looking for volunteers who would like to get involved in the Club notes, website and social media. Anyone interested please contact secretary.spa.kerry@gaa.ie or 0858414804.

Dr Crokes GAA

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

RUGBY: The Killarney U14 girls team who took on Dunmanway/Bantry in Aghadoe.

on this healthy walk and social chat. This walk is open to all non Dr Crokes members too.

GOLF SOCIETY is open for membership to all Dr Crokes members. We have 6 outings in total with our first outing scheduled for Waterville on Friday, March 24, tee time 11-1. We are offering a special deal now to members which is €100 to include golf in Waterville and society membership. Payment has to be made on or before February 4. You can secure your place by either dropping the money to Vince Casey or send by Revolut to Keith McMahon. If you are interested in joining you can also contact fellow committee members Brendan Keogh, Ger O’Shea, John O’Leary or Frank Shaw. Our captain this year is John Lynch and President is Martin Byrnes.

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 23. Numbers drawn were 5, 11, 15, 22 Jackpot not won. 23 patrons matched 3 numbers and receive €25 each. Jackpot for draw on January 30 will be €15,800. 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 €2,600 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.

SYMPATHY to the family of Catherine O’Connor, Co. Clare, mother of Dave and also to the family of Denis Griffin, St. Brendan’s Terrace. Denis’ brother Johnny was an outstanding player for our club in the 1960s. Condolences to the Hickey family Woodlawn on the death of Noreen. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a n-anamacha.

Fossa GAA

SENIOR MEN: Congratulations to our senior men's team who were crowned Junior All-Ireland champions last Sunday in Croke Park. Fantastic achievement by all involved and memoirs for life.

KERRY LADIES: Kerry Ladies Rd 1, National League. A narrow win for the Kerry ladies last Sunday but a great start to life in Division 1. Wishing Erica McGlynn, Anna Clifford, team and management the

very best of luck for the year. Best of luck to Síofra O'Shea, Southern Gaels Ladies Football Club who captains the team for the year.

LOTTO: 13, 7, 14, 26. €40 winners: Teresa Cummins, Coolroe Ballyhar. Eileen O’Connor, Kilcummin. Margaret Clifford, Barleymount. Niall Griffin, Two Mile. Ciara Nagle, Mastergeeha. Next week's jackpot €11,400. Thanks for playing.

CONDOLENCES: The club would like to pass on our condolences to the family of Elizabeth (Liz) Foley. Barleymount West. May she rest in peace.

Glenflesk GAA

MEMBERSHIP 2023: Membership for 2023 is now open and available online via Clubforce.

LOTTO: There was no winner of the Glenflesk Lotto which took place on Jan 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.

EAST KERRY SUPER LEAGUE: Our first Senior game of 2023 is away to Fossa on Feb 5 at 12 noon, hoping to see our supporters out again for the new season. Best wishes to new senior management John B O’Donoghue and Shane Dennehy. 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 run-

ning of juvenile and adult teams. Ticket sales will close on Jan 31. 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. Registration will begin at Glenflesk Hall at 6.10pm.

CONDOLENCES: Condolences to the O’Connell family Garries Glenflesk on the death of John Joe who played for the club winning East Kerry junior in 1957. May he rest in peace.

Kilcummin GAA

EAST KERRY SENIOR LEAGUE: Sunday, February 5 at12 noon - Firies v Kilcummin. Sunday, February 23 at 12 noon - Kilcummin v Gneeveguilla.

AWARDS NIGHT: Kilcummin Clubhouse Friday Feb 3. This will be preceded by a mass for deceased club members.

GYM MEMBERSHIP: Gym Membership is still available for 2023 for €200. Contact John at 087 6168449.

LOTTO: There was no winner on Monday, January 23 of the jackpot €2,500. Numbers drawn were 1, 5, 6, 26. Consolation prizes of €50 went to Kieran Murphy, Tournanough, Sylvie Dwyer, Glounacopple, Luke & Bertie Curtin, Knocklebede, Dan O’Sullivan, Aghadoe. The next draw will take place on January 30 for a jackpot of €2,750.

Listry GAA

LISTRY GAA AGM: The following officers appointed for 2023 in Listry Gaa Club: Patron - Patie Sugrue. President - Pa Mannix. Vice Presidents - John Joe Tangney, Pat Quirke, Mikey Kennedy. ChairmanDenis Murphy. Vice Chairman - Mark Curran. Secretary - Anthony Clifford. Assis-

tant Secretary - Mike Tangney. Treasurer - John Joe Courtney. Assistant Treasurer - Andrew O’Sullivan. PRO - Colette Leslie. Health and Wellbeing Officer: Anne Sugrue O’Brien. Children's Officier - John Lehane. Assistant CPO - Eilis Dunsworth. Coaching Officer - Tim Scannell. Membership Officier - Mike Tangney. Development Officer - Noel O’Sullivan, Jerome Kennedy. Scor Officer - Aoife O'Mahony. Auditors - Pat Quirke, Cathal O’Shea. East Kerry Board Delegates - John Joe Tangney, Mike Dwyer. County Board Delegate - Mikey Kennedy.

JUVENILE OFFICERS: Chairman: Mark Curran. Secretary: Fergus Clifford. Treasurer: Tim Fitzgerald.

KERRY MASTERS FOOTBALL: Kerry Masters Football are looking to progress further in 2023. If you are turning 40 this year and would like to get involved, Contact: Denis Kennelly 087 6549406. John O'Connor 086 8500319

KERRY LGFA MINORS: Congratulations to Aideen O’Brien, MKL Gaels making the Kerry Ladies Gaelic Football Minor team. Best of Luck to Aideen and her teammates in the season ahead.

KERRY LGFA: Congratulations to Niamh Broderick and Kerry Ladies Gaelic Football in Lidl Ireland Ladies NFL Div 1 against Waterford last weekend.

LOTTO: Numbers drawn 3, 5, 10, 18. €100 - Grace Fortune, Chicago. €50 x 2 John Wrenn, Lissivane. Ian Joy c/o K Hobbins. €25 x 2 - Ml D O'Connor, Coolbane. Noel Kennedy, Ballymalis. Next Sunday Jackpot is €9,000.

MKL GAELS LGFA: MKL Gaels are welcoming U12 girls (born 2011 & 2012) Keel, Milltown/Castlemaine and Listry area to MKL Gaels LGFA training on February 18, 2pm in Milltown NS Astro pitch.

NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE: Best of Luck to Kerry team and management v Donegal on Sunday, January 29 in MacCumhaill Park, Ballybofey 3.45pm

FAI: The Killarney Celtic side who defeated Peake Villa in the last 32 of the FAI Junior Cup.

Beaufort GAA

LOTTO: No jackpot winner on Sunday, January 22. Numbers: 12, 18, 25, 26.

CONSOLATION PRIZES: €80 Andrew Doyle, Tomies Close. €50 Denis Galvin, Beaufort, Lisa Buckley, Cork, John O’Connor, Gortbuí. The next draw for a jackpot of €11,600 will be on Sunday, February 5. 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.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING was held on Friday, January 20. Officers for 2023 are President and Vice President: Jack McGrath, Jerome O’Shea, Chairperson: Neil Doherty, Vice-Chairperson: Maurice Foley, Secretary: Bridget Hartnett Treasurer: Padraig O’Sullivan, PRO: Amy Foley, Registrar: Pat Hartnett. Coaching: Tim Coffey, Juvenile Chairperson and Secretary: Maurice Foley, Mary Cronin. Ladies Chairperson and Secretary: Gillian Breen and Tara Kearins. ASAP Officer: Kieran O’Shea, Schools: Eamonn Kissane, Senior Co Board: Ken O’Sullivan, Ladies Co Board: Maura O’Sullivan and Carl O’Sullivan, Players Reps: Maura O’Sullivan, Jason Foley. Committee: Mikie O’Sullivan, Frank Coffey, Children’s Officer, Cultural Officer are appointed positions.

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.

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 continues this week on Tuesdays and Fridays from 6.30pm to 8.30pm in GAA field. If you want to walk at another time, please sign in at Clubhouse entrance. Everybody must sign in before walking.

WALKING CHALLENGE: It is at the end of the second week and nearly half the steps required are clocked up. Thank you to all the participants.

Milltown/Castlemaine GAA

LOTTO: Sponsored by Almas Takeaway, Milltown. The fortnightly club lotto draw took place on Monday, January 23 at the club grounds. There was no jackpot or match 3 winner on this occasion. The numbers drawn were 12, 26, 30 and the bonus ball was 2. Lucky Dip winners were as follows: €50 - Alan O'Connor,

Kenmare. €50 - Lucy Cotter, Bantry. €25 - Peigi Ruiseal, Baile na nGall. €25 - Nancy Coffey, Milltown. €25 - Anthony O'Connor, Milltown. €25 - John O'Connor, Keel. Our next club lotto draw is scheduled to take place on Monday, February 6 at 7:30pm 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.

LOST AND FOUND: An airpod was found at the entrance to the Milltown/Castlemaine GAA walkway at 2pm on Monday afternoon, January 23.

Killarney Golf & Fishing Club (Ladies)

RESULTS: Waltz 13 holes. Competition played on Sunday, January 22 at Killarney (Mahony's Point). 1st Maire Murphy, Lorna O'Leary, Peg Wickham 54 pts; 2nd Maureen Creedon, Dolores McSweeney, Marie O'Brien 54 pts.

NEXT FIXTURE: Sunday, Jan 29. Killeen. 12 Hole competition. Please contact the club on social media for further information.

Ross Golf Club (Men)

RESULTS: On Sunday, Jan 22 we held a mixed 12 hole Champagne Scramble which was very well supported and played in good conditions. The winners were: 1st Peter Wickham, Brian O'Leary,

John Nolan. 2nd Johnny Brosnan, Breda O'Farrell, Tony Lenihan, Anthony O'Mahony.

SYMPATHY: We offer our sincere sympathy to Stanley Wade on the recent death of his wife, Lucy RIP. We offer our sincere sympathy to Margaret O'Donoghue on the recent death of her sister, Eileen O'Sullivan RIP. We also offer our sincere sympathy to Mike Moriarty on the death of his mother Maureen RIP.

Deerpark Pitch & Putt Club

SUNDAY DRAWS: Fourball BetterballFirst Nett: Daniel Kelly & Betty O'Brien 35½, Gross: Gearoid Cronin & Sean O'Brien 45 and Second Nett: Gearoid Cronin & Aidan O'Keeffe 37½. Same again this Sunday morning for club members aged 15 or over at 9am and 10.45pm. Entry €4 per draw and a fee of €7 for both.

MEMBERSHIP: Fees for 2023 will be due as of March 1. Further details in the weeks ahead.

Killarney Rugby

MINIS: Last weekend our Minis hosted Tralee RFC and Killorglin RFC U10 girls for girls only matches at Aghadoe. A wonderful morning of rugby that was thoroughly enjoyed by all the girls. Thanks to Liam Murphy for organising and all the girls for taking part. Next weekend our Minis are due to travel to Dingle for matches with Rugbai Chorca Dhuibhne Minis. This promises to be brilliant fun for all. Keep an eye on our socials for details.

BREAK IN: Our rugby club fell victim to criminal activity last Thursday night when a window was smashed and access gained to our premises. The perpetrators then proceeded to search through our clubhouse and remaining buildings for items of value. Thankfully we have CCTV images and members of an Garda Siochana carried out an extensive forensic examination of the effected areas. Please be vigilant and report and suspicious activity at the pitch to an Garda Siochana in Killarney.

RESULTS: U14 Boys: Killarney 19-0 Cashel. U14 Girls: Killarney 17-21 Dunmanway/Bantry. U16 Boys: Highfield

17-13 Killarney. U18 Boys: Killarney 15-34 Carrigaline/Dolphin. Seniors: Kanturk 2610 Killarney.

FIXTURES: U14 Boys v Abbeyfeale, Aghadoe Sat at 12pm. U16 Girls v Tralee, Away Sat at 12. U16 Boys v Clonmel, Away Sat at 12. U18 Boys v Kinsale, Aghadoe Sat at 2pm. Seniors v Bruff, Aghadoe Sun at 2pm.

Killarney Valley AC

SARAH AND OISÍN: Killarney Valley AC Sprinter Sarah Leahy ran in a 60m race in Jablonec Czech Republic on Saturday with some of Europe’s fastest women. Sarah came 2nd with a new PB of 7.32 sec just behind Dina Asher Smith of the UK. Oisín Lynch ran as a guest in the 800m National Indoor League in Athlone on Sunday and won comfortably with a rapid time of 1m57sec. Killarney Valley AC are all very proud of both Sarah and Oisin. INFO: All information on Training Schedules and How to Join etc. are on our website killarneyvalleyac.ie.

Glenflesk CCÉ

MUSIC CLASSES will resume on a Tuesday, January 31 at the GAA Hall Glenflesk at 7pm. New members welcome. For information please contact Martina on 087 2966644.

Kilcummin

31 CARD DRIVE: 31 Card Memorial Tournament will be held in the Klub Bar in memory of Dermot “Brady” Moynihan on February 5 at 4pm. (31 card partners). All proceeds donated to the Comfort for Chemo.

KILCUMMIN COMHALTAS: Sult na n’Óg 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.

JUNIOR SET DANCING: Junior set dancing continues every Friday night at the Recreational Hall. Beginners and Intermediate from 7pm to 8pm, Advanced 8pm to 9pm. Contact Mary on 087 9620135 for further details.

SPA GAA: Spa U10 and U12 girls and their coaches getting ready for the 2023 season.

Cork Road, Killarney

SIZZLING STOVES PRICED TO CLEAR!

Vidar Triple EA Woodburning Stove Was €2999 Now €1999

Stockholm 5KW Stove Was €979 Now €669

Versailles Fireplace Package Was €2199 Now €1359

Compact and childproof Stove Guards now available in-store!

OUR STOVE CLEARANCE SALE ENDS THIS WEEK!

• BIO UNITS, SEPTIC TANKS

• PUMPS, AIR BLOWERS AND SUBMERSIBLES

• DRAIN AND SEWERAGE PROBLEMS TEL. 087 2474567

YOUR LOCAL SEWERAGE TREATMENT SERVICE MAN SERVICING KERRY & SURROUNDING AREAS