KILLARNEY ADVERTISER 6 JANUARY 2023

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SIX

More arrests likely after New Year's day brawl

Seven of the eight men arrested following a mass brawl on New Year’s day have been moved to other Direct Provision centres in four different parts of Ireland.

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By Sean Moriarty

Up to 20 men which included four to five Algerians, and between 10 and 15 Georgians - were involved in the melee at Hotel Killarney on Park Road which is currently being used to house up to 400 International Protection applicants. The incident happened about 8.30pm on New Year’s night.

Several gardai and up to six ambulances were deployed to the scene. Four people in the hotel were taken to hospital after suffering non-life-threatening injuries in the incident. Two were taken to a Cork hospital while the others were taken to University Hospital Kerry and Gardai confirmed that they have since been released.

Six men were arrested on Monday concerning the incident and were held in Tralee and Killarney Garda Stations ahead

of court appearances this week.

Two more men were arrested on Tuesday and also appeared in court this week.

Following the court appearances seven of the men were bailed and have been transferred to other Direct Provision centres in Cork, Clare, Laois and Louth.

They have been ordered to stay away from Killarney unless attending official appointments like court sittings or solicitor's meetings.

The eighth man, who is alleged to have brandished a weapon during the fracas, remains in custody after being charged under the Public Order Act and the Firearms and Offensive Weapons Act.

Killarney Gardai confirmed to the Killarney Advertiser that the incident is still under investigation. A spokesperson confirmed that up 20 people were involved in the incident.

“Further arrests are likely to be made in

relation to this case,” the spokesperson told the Killarney Advertiser.

A spokesperson for Taoiseach Leo Varadkar told the Killarney Advertiser that Ireland is now accommodating over 71,255 people throughout the country, between those fleeing Ukraine and International Protection applicants. "The government fully understands the concerns in relation to the incident in Killarney. This is now a matter for An Garda Síochána and it is not appropriate to comment on a live investigation. Since the incident occurred, the International Protection Accommodation Service has engaged and continues to engage with the staff and residents of the centre in order to ensure that all necessary supports are being provided. Government is continuing to explore a wide range of options to address the accommodation needs of the high numbers who are seeking protection here. Several strands of activity are underway, aside from hotel accommodation, to maximise a range of alternative options, including roll-out of a rapid-build housing programme."

DAMAGING: Cllr Donal Grady says those causing trouble are damaging Killarney's reputation.

Deport the trouble makers – Cllr Grady

Cllr Donal Grady has warned that Sunday’s incident is “damaging Killarney” and that the perpetrators “should be deported”.

He claims that many of the International Protection applicants staying at the Park Road premises are not Garda vetted.

“Shame on our government and Hotel Killarney for allowing and taking the contract, they are potentially damaging tourism in Killarney putting Killarney’s good name in the gutter. It’s greed and nothing more,” he told the Killarney Advertiser. “They’re here as asylum seekers, fleeing war, yet causing disruption here. The people of Killarney are living in fear and anyone who misbehaves in any shape or form should be deported.”

SCENE: Emergency services attended the scene of the fracas on Park Road on New Year's day.

Killarney hoteliers demand government action

Hoteliers in Killarney say that the government has no plan when it comes to the future of International Protection applicants currently living in the town.

| By Sean Moriarty

Hotel Killarney on Park Road is home to approximately 400 men, women and children of varying nationalities, ethnic backgrounds and religious affiliations.

Other hotels in town are home to a large Ukrainian community who are fleeing the war in their homeland.

Killarney also has at least three Direct Provision centres that have been accommodating International Protection applicants for close to 20 years.

However, problems have been on the rise since the arrival of the latest group of International Protection applicants in October.

It began when Ukrainian families were asked to leave Hotel Killarney to make way for 400 new arrivals.

Thanks to local intervention, the Ukrainian families were allowed to stay and some of them were relocated to other

hotels in the town as a temporary measure.

As a result, the 400 International Protection applicants took up residence in Killarney and since then there have been widespread reports of intimidation and harassment by a minority of these new residents in different locations across town.

A Killarney Municipal District meeting in November heard various complaints from councillors that locals were afraid to walk Park Road.

The situation reached boiling point on

Sunday night when up to 20 people were involved in a mass brawl.

Hotels have three and six-month contracts with the International Protection Accommodation Service (IPAS) which means hotels currently providing temporary accommodation will be faced with a dilemma once these contracts expire.

Bernadette Randles, chair of the Kerry Branch of the Irish Hoteliers Federation, is calling for the government to come up with a plan.

“The government need to make decisions, the three leaders [Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, Tánaiste Micheál Martin, and Environment Minister Eamon Ryan] need to deal with this,” she told the Killarney Advertiser. “What is the plan for the people, the people of Killarney, the people employed in tourism and those seeking International Protection?”

Ms Randles also confirmed that there was no foundation in a social media report circulating this week that the Killarney hoteliers had met and voted to not renew all Direct Provision contracts. There was "no such meeting", she said.

The majority of Killarney hotels are not contracted to provide International Protection services and remains open for tourism business.

| Maurice McSweeney

It took 100 years or more to make killarney a most wonderful and welcoming town known the world over, and only two years of this government to destroy it.

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| Caroline Bermingham

Before u could easily go to Killarney by yourself and tour round go out now as a woman you gotta think twice of places u used to visit and feel safe in , you woudlnt walk down Killarney by yourself at night for a taxi if u can get one anymore

| Damien Switzer

Killarney politicians this is happening under your watch!!! If you have no power over the government to do anything at least make yourselves heard, so locals can see your doing something on their behalf.

| Jeremiah Griffin

There should be a more rigorous procedure to allow access to Ireland for those who need and for those who exploit it.

The vetting procedure should allow for immediate deportation.

| Lorraine Kelly

The Irish government has a lot to answer for...

Calls for common sense approach to refugee crisis 400 people living in the same place “not ideal” - Chamber

| By Sean Moriarty

A former mayor of Killarney who is a board member of KASI has become voice of reason following last Sunday’s violent episode in Hotel Killarney.

A total of six people were injured and eight arrested following a fracas at the hotel that is home to a number of people seeking International Protection (see separate stories).

KASI’s role in Killarney is to help new arrivals settle in their new surrounds by offering English classes and guidance on how to access services. It does not influence Government policy in anyway.

Michael Gleeson sits on the Killarney Immigrant Support Centre (KASI) board. He told the Killarney Advertiser that the government has made mistakes in accommodating refugees and International

Protection applicants in Killarney but that is not an excuse for people to engage in racism.

“KASI is opposed to all racist commentary, the asylum seekers and Ukrainians are not here of their own ruminations. Some of them are coming from very traumatic situations and have risked life and limb,” he told the Killarney Advertiser.

“We, as a relatively affluent country, must help in the short term until we determine where their future lies.”

However, he added that the government has made mistakes and that too many people were placed in Hotel Killarney and that is leading to the problems witnessed on Sunday night.

“The density of the population is excessive, at the time there was an influx of Ukrainians, and a large number of asylum seekers and emergency action was taken,” he added.

| By Sean Moriarty

Killarney

accommodation.

The Chamber issued a statement following Sunday’s mass brawl at Hotel Killarney where up to 400 International Protection applicants are now living.

The Chamber has welcomed assurances from the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Roderic O’Gorman, that steps are being taken to safeguard against such incidents happening again.

Minister O’Gorman has confirmed to the Chamber that he is liaising closely with An Garda Síochána on the matter and that measures will be taken, in the immediate term, to deal with the

issues.

Attempts by the Killarney Advertiser to contact Minister O’Gorman's office this week were not successful.

“We look forward to a positive and effective outcome from those talks,” the Chamber said.

“The Chamber fully concurs with local sentiment that having 400 people, of several nationalities, in one temporary international asylum seeker centre is far from ideal and a proper, safer and more sensible government policy is required going forward.

“The Chamber is of the view, and has expressed it in the past, that there has been a serious and unacceptable lack of communication between the State agencies involved in sourcing accommodation for asylum seekers and refugees and local authorities, community organisations and services providers at a local level.”

Bernadette Randles, Chair of the Kerry Branch of the Irish Hotels Federation. Photo: Marie Carroll-O'Sullivan

Chamber of Tourism and Commerce has raised concerns about the number of people from different ethnic backgrounds living together in temporary

Busy year for Kerry Mountain Rescue Team

| By Sean Moriarty

KMRT dealt with 57 callouts and helped a total of 71 people in 2022.

While this number was lower than in 2021, total callout hours are up due to the nature and complexity of a number of the incidents handled during the year. One fatality was recorded in the mountains last year.

The majority of callouts were to the mountains of the McGillycuddy’s Reeks with many callouts on the Dingle and Beara peninsulas.

Slips, falls and lost parties accounted for the vast majority of incidents which the 38 volunteers with the group deal with.

“Though accidents can and do happen to even the most experienced mountaineers, the main trend in incidents over the past few years (excluding lockdown) involved a significant number of inexperienced and ill-equipped parties on the hills,” Colm Burke, KMRT PRO, said.

“We would strongly advise people new to the mountains to ensure they research their chosen activity well in advance and employ the services of a guide or join a club to learn the skills required for a safe and enjoyable adventure.”

TRAINING 2022

The team spent an additional 2,300 training in the mountains last year.

“In addition to callouts the team continued to train regularly throughout the year, logging over 2,300 hours and ensuring that essential core skills such as First Aid, casualty care and evacuation, technical ropework, navigation, 4x4, and radio communications were refreshed and newer skills and techniques well-practised in the harshest weather conditions,” Mr Burke added.

A highlight of 2022 was the recent commencement of the base extension at New Road, Killarney. The extension will provide much-needed facilities including additional equipment storage space, a drying room and a meeting room, all of which will enhance the team’s operational capabilities.

“We look forward to the completion of the extension in 2023,” he added.

“We would like to extend sincere thanks to all those who have donated funds to the team over the year. The team relies heavily on donations to meet our annual running costs and we very much appreciate the effort that donors and fundraisers make in this regard.

“A huge thanks to the local communities who came out in force to support the team during a number of difficult operations, opening their doors at all hours of the day and night to provide warm drinks and food to very grateful rescuers. We cannot thank you enough for your kindness and support.”

Shock at sudden death of popular priest

| By Michelle Crean

Communities across the county were left shocked on Wednesday at the sudden death of Fr Donal O'Connor.

The popular priest, who was Chaplain at the Munster Technological University in Tralee, is believed to have passed away at his home in Rathmore aged 61. In is role as Chaplain, which he took up in 2015, he provided a range of services to staff and students including pastoral care, personal support and faith development.

He had previously worked as the chaplain at Beara Community School and as a curate in Listowel, and as parish priest of Beaufort.

During the pandemic Fr O’Connor, who had a wonderful way with words and was also a very good poet, presented videos online as a way to connect with his parishioners to prompt deep reflection.

Bishop Ray Browne, upon hearing the news, offered his sympathy to those who knew Fr O'Connor.

"Bishop Ray offers his sympathy to all who mourn him, especially the O'Con-

SHOCK: There was a great sense of shock as news emerged of the death of Fr Donal O'Connor on Wednesday.

nor family, his diocesan family, and all those he worked with as chaplain in MTU Tralee. May Fr. Donal Rest in Peace,” a statement from the Diocese of Kerry read.

Sean celebrates 50 years service

| By Michelle Crean

One local man was recognised for his commitment and dedication as he has given half a century of service.

Sean Moriarty recently celebrated the major 50 years milestone with the Killarney Hotels Collection.

At the annual end of year Christmas lunch, team members came together where Sean was recognised for his dedi-

cation and commitment to the company. Sean manages the hotel’s 400-acre farm that stretches between The Europe Hotel & Resort and The Dunloe Hotel & Gardens which is home to 340 head of cattle, a combination of Aberdeen Angus, Charolaise, Limousin and hundreds of sheep.

"I would like to congratulate Sean for reaching such a milestone and thank him sincerely for his valued contribution and dedication over the past 50 years," Managing Director, Michael Brennan, said.

RESCUE: Members of the Kerry Mountain Rescue Team spent 3100 hours on rescue missions in local mountains last year.

Members of the Kerry Mountain Rescue Team (KMRT) spent 3,100 hours on rescue missions in local mountains last year.

50 YEARS’ SERVICE: Adrian Stehr (Managing Director of Killarney Hotels Collection) congratulates Sean Moriarty (Farm Manager of Killarney Hotels Collection) for 50 years’ service.

CONOR

T OWN TALK

David’s joy as over €15k raised for Kerry Hospice Foundation

The original fundraising target was €2,000 - but local man David Looney smashed that by raising over a whopping €15,000!

| By Michelle Crean

David set up a GoFundMe page '170 Miles in November in memory of Geraldine' as a thank you to Kerry Hospice for the care his sister-in-law Geraldine O'Connor (49) received during her illness. She sadly passed away in November 2021.

He timed the run to conclude on the anniversary of Geraldine's death, and went out in all kinds of weather.

For his efforts he managed to raise €15,445. David, who is manager of the popular pub Tatler Jack invited all the O'Connor clan to the presentation function at the pub before Christmas.

There, Cathal Walshe, PRO of Kerry Hospice, thanked David and everyone who contributed to the venture.

"It means a lot to the Foundation and as the late Ted Moynihan said "you hope you will never need the Hospice, but the

Hospice will always need you"," Cathal said.

"I am absolutely delighted and overwhelmed with the amount raised," David told the Killarney Advertiser.

"We had donors from nearly every corner of the world, from Australia to China to America and Canada. I would like to sincerely thank every single donor. Their generosity helped us give a huge thank you to Kerry Hospice and the wonderful staff in the Palliative Care Unit UHK for the amazing care Geraldine received.

I would also like to thank local media including Killarney Advertiser and my workplace Tatler Jack (social media) for the support in publicising the fundraiser.

"Also a huge thank you to Chris Davies from Reboot Recovery for the use of his facilities during the month - I don’t think I would have made it without that place!"

A STORY? Call 064 6632215 or email: newsdesk@killarneyadvertiser.ie

COMMUNITY NEWS

Gleneagle receives mark of Employer Excellence

The Gleneagle has become one of the first in Ireland to achieve the mark of Employer Excellence through Fáilte Ireland’s new Employer Excellence Programme.

Fáilte Ireland, together with Great Place to Work, launched the Employer Excellence Programme in September with the aim of supporting tourism businesses to drive employee engagement and build a great workplace culture. The Employer Excellence mark acts as a symbol that identifies businesses that are rewarding and appealing workplaces.

The Gleneagle Hotel received the award following the correlation of results of

an employee survey which were then benchmarked independently by an employee engagement expert.

“We are delighted to be recognised as a great place to work. Our team is our greatest asset and essential in delivering exceptional guest experiences. As employers, it is our responsibility to provide a rewarding and appealing place to work and, in today’s competitive employment market, this is more important than ever,” said Patrick O’Donoghue, CEO of The Gleneagle Group.

To find out more about working as part of the team at The Gleneagle Hotel, visit www.gleneaglehotel.com/en/jobs/.

BIRTHDAY BOY: Craig McKenzie Vass celebrating his 21st birthday with his parents Rose and George at the Killarney Avenue Hotel. Photo: Michelle Cooper Galvin

PROCEEDS: David Looney pictured handing over the funds from his charity run to Cathal Walshe, PRO of Kerry Hospice in the Tatler Jack.

AWARD: The Gleneagle Hotel is thrilled to have received the mark of Employer Excellence from Fáilte Ireland. Pictured l-r were: Patrick O'Donoghue (CEO of The Gleneagle Group), Mike Woods, Eilis Loughrey, Jack McCarthy, Breffni Ingerton, John Dolan, Ann O'Leary and Chido Mukambi. Photo: Valerie O'Sullivan

After six years at the helm of Killarney Racecourse and Ross Golf Course, Gerard Coughlan has stepped down as Chairman of Killarney Race Company.

He will however remain an active Director on the Board of Management. Leading property consultant, Billy O’Sullivan who has served as Vice Chairman for the duration of Coughlan’s term will take over the role of Chairman.

Gerard has embraced a great deal of change and unprecedented uncertainty. During this period his commitment has been unwavering as he guided Killarney Race Company through testing times and the business has not only survived but thrived as a result.

Incoming Chairman, Billy O’Sullivan has served on the board at Killarney Race Company for 15 years. A keen golfer and horse racing enthusiast, he is eager to hit the ground running in his new role.

“I am very much looking forward to working with the team and my fellow board members to build on the achievements

New Chairman appointed at Killarney Racecourse

of recent years," he said.

"I would like to thank our outgoing Chairman Gerard Coughlan and former company secretary Con O’Mahony in particular for their sterling work and dedication. In recent years we have expended in excess of €10m on capital development projects to enhance our offering at Killarney Racecourse. In 2022, we hosted 13 quality race days with €1.68m in prize money which encompassed 1,200 runners, over 91 races. We, as a team, are ambitious to build on the quality of our racing, increase prize money and the overall racegoer experience at Killarney.”

Killarney Race Company is a flourishing commercial enterprise. The most recent capital project has been the opening of the impressive new aesthetic entrance to Killarney Racecourse and Ross Golf

Course.

“I am delighted to hand the reins over to Billy, it has been a tough few years without crowds at our track for almost two years but we have pulled through the pandemic well and maintained a healthy balance sheet," Gerard said.

"Billy’s family have been steeped in the history of the town, in fact his grandfather Dr Bill O’Sullivan Snr. was one of our founders. Billy and wife Hilary and their grown-up family live in Dublin but spend a great deal of time in Killarney, have a home here which they regularly frequent and they are very much part of the fabric of the local and sporting community here. Billy will be a wonderful asset to Killarney Race Company as Chairman and I look forward to continuing to work with him at board level.”

Under pressure hospital cancels scheduled appointments

Due to the high numbers of patients presenting with flu, COVID-19, and other winter virus infections, management at University Hospital Kerry are calling on the public to seek assistance elsewhere.

Their advice is to go to a local pharmacy, GP or South Doc before attending the Emergency Department this week. Urgent cases however, will always be prioritised for treatment and care.

Patients with scheduled appointments are also being asked not to attend UHK. The following mitigation measures have been taken:

• Deferral of all Outpatient scheduled appointments up to and including Friday, January 20 [Exceptions listed

below].

• Deferral of Elective Surgery up to and including Friday, January 20 [ *With the exception of time critical surgeries].

Exceptions to the above cancelled clinics are:

• Orthopaedic Trauma Clinics

• Infusion Clinics

• Dressings Clinic

• Cardiology Outpatient scans and procedures

• Radiology Outpatient imaging/ procedures

• Virtual Clinics

• Antenatal / Maternity Clinics

• Oncology and Palliative Care Clinics

• Colposcopy and Hysteroscopy Clinics

at Cíll Ide

• Endoscopies [Time critical will proceed]

Other than the listed clinics, University Hospital Kerry is requesting that patients do not attend scheduled outpatient and elective surgery appointments unless they receive a call to advise otherwise, from UHK staff.

Any cancelled appointments are being rescheduled and if patients have an urgent query in relation to an appointment, they should the relevant Consultant’s secretary.

Visiting is currently restricted to compassionate cases only.

According to the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation, 838 patients were on a trolley in Irish hospitals on Wednes-

day. Their figures show that there were 3,474 patients on trolleys in UHK last year compared to 2,409 in 2021 - a rise in 1,065. A decade ago, in 2013, this figure was less than a thousand - at 694.

“It is time for the Government to call this what it clearly is – an out and out crisis," INMO General Secretary, Phil Ní Sheaghdha who is originally from Ventry, said.

“Our members are treating patients in the most undignified conditions. This is not the type of care they should be providing in a country that has the resources to provide additional capacity and support.

“Nurses and other healthcare staff cannot continue to weather this storm without adequate support and protection from their employer."

NEW ROLE: Billy O’Sullivan will take over the role of Chairman of Killarney Race Company.

PRESENTATION: Killarney Racecourse Board of Directors, management and staff presented outgoing Chairman Gerard Coughlan (3rd right) and outgoing Secretary Con O'Mahony (1st right) with gifts for their long service of dedication to Killarney Race Company. From left: Terrence Mulcahy, Padraig Bruton, Pam Treacy, Tadgh Kelly, Niall Brosnan, Philip O'Brien, Áine O'Donoghue, and Jennifer Pyne. Photo: Valerie O'Sullivan

Marie plans another fundraising photoshoot

| By Michelle Crean

The local photographer, who has a popular monthly column in the Killarney Advertiser, is a planning a fundraising photoshoot at the end of the month proceeds of which will go the hardworking Kerry Mountain Rescue Team.

The move follows on from a successful shoot before Christmas which raised €900 for the voluntary group who are currently building a new base in Killarney town.

"After COVID sabotaged my annual charity photoshoot fundraiser in 2021, it was great to see familiar faces through the door at the International Hotel pre-Christmas to raise €900 for Kerry Mountain Rescue," Marie said.

"For the previous eight years I have opted to fund the Jack & Jill foundation but seeing how hard the mountain rescue team have worked this past year, I felt it was time to keep the funding more local to Kerry."

Marie spoke with Mick Long, treasurer of the Kerry Mountain Rescue Team, and was informed that a plan is in place to

extend their base which is located at Killarney Garda Station.

"The original shoot pre-Christmas sold out in one hour and three minutes so a repeat performance I think is a no brainer for these people who voluntarily work so hard to keep us all safe throughout the peaks of the Kingdom.

"The ever helpful Catriona and Tracy at the International Hotel have come on board yet again and given me an additional date later this month - Sunday, January 29. None of this could be achieved without my trusty admin lady Collette Clifford O'Shea who gives up her time annually to make things happen!"

The fee is €40 and all are welcome, not just families, she added.

"Bring your gal pals, your cousins or maybe you'd like a really nice generation photo. Two photos will be delivered digitally in high resolution within one week after the shoot."

Each time slot is a mere 10 minutes in and out, and bookings will be open via email only to thelittlememorygallery@gmail. com from Monday, January 16.

Finance Minister to address Chamber President’s event

Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce has pulled off quite a coup by securing the new Minister for Finance, Michael McGrath, TD, as the keynote speaker for the business organisation’s inaugural President’s Lunch.

The event, hosted by outgoing Chamber President Niall Kelleher, will take place in the Killarney Plaza Hotel on Friday, January 13 at 1pm.

Minister McGrath, a TD for Cork South Central, was first elected to Dáil Éireann, at his first attempt, in 2007 and he has retained his seat in all elections since then.

He secured a first-class honours commerce degree in UCC and went on to qualify as a chartered accountant before entering politics on a full-time basis.

As Minister for Finance, he holds one of the most powerful positions in Irish politics having succeeded Paschal Donohue in the cabinet reshuffle in December.

Niall Kelleher will shortly complete his two-year term as President of Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce and, at the event, he will reflect on the highlights and the challenges of his time in the position.

The President’s Lunch, in association

with AIB, will be his last public engagement as Chamber President.

Tickets are priced at €15 and limited spaces will be allocated on a first-comefirst-served basis. Bookings can be made by contacting the Chamber office on 064 6637928.

Coroner court costing Council €340,000 annually

A Kerry councillor has hit out at the cost of the Coroner's Court saying it's taking funding from local Council budgets.

Fianna Fáil Councillor, Michael Cahill, has again questioned why the Department for Justice funds the Coroner’s Service in Dublin District only, while County Council’s throughout the country must cover those costs for their own district.

“All the others are funded by the Local Authority or in our case, Kerry County Council,” Councillor Cahill said.

“This is a large overhead which up to now is levied on Kerry County Council for a service that should be under the control of the Department of Justice."

An inquest must be held to investigate any sudden, unnatural, violent or unexplained death, to determine the identity of the deceased, when and where they died, and, without apportioning liability, how they died.

"This is the job of the Coroner's Court but I cannot see how anyone could see it as the function of a Local Authority to fund such a service,” he said.

“I believe calls have already been

made that the Coroner's Court be reformed to make it more user friendly for the families of the deceased and to have it modernised. I am calling as well that the responsibility for the Coroner's Court be transferred over to the Department of Justice, where it rightfully belongs.”

He said that he has been "highlighting this matter for many years at County Council meetings" and "especially at Budget meetings".

"This service that Kerry County Council should not be responsible for funding is costing the Council in the region of €330,000 to €340,000 annually and as I have stated on many occasions over the years, we are in fact owed millions of Euros by the Department of Justice. The funding saved can be more correctly and meaningfully spent on services by Kerry County Council and other Local Authorities that fit into the range usually delegated to them which would not include any type of courts service. In fact, I believe that under the Separation of Powers, this present arrangement may be unconstitutional.”

Helping others is what she does best so it's no surprise that Marie Carroll-O'Sullivan is once again fundraising for charity.

CHAMBER LUNCH: Outgoing Chamber President Niall Kelleher has invited Minister for Finance, Michael McGrath, TD, as the keynote speaker at the Chamber lunch next week.

CHARITY PHOTOSHOOT: Collette Clifford O’Shea pictured with her family at the charity photoshoot in aid of the Kerry Mountain Rescue Team. A second fundraising date is planned later this month.

Woman’s rugby star to visit Killarney this year

The Blackrock College RFC and Connacht Rugby star has been appointed brand ambassador for the Coral Leisure Group which includes Killarney Sports and Leisure’s complex on the Bypass road.

“Beibhinn is the perfect fit for Coral Leisure, a strong female athlete at the top of her game and a tremendous role model for all young people,” Coral Leisure Operations Manager, David Moore, said.

“Throughout her time as Coral brand ambassador, Beibhinn will visit all nine Coral Leisure centres nationwide, including Killarney giving hundreds of children in

those communities, the opportunity to be coached by one of the superstars of Irish Rugby, and will hopefully inspire many of them to go on to become the best they can be themselves.”

Beibhinn, is currently preparing for the upcoming 6 Nations and Rugby World Cup qualification in 2025 in England. She also hopes to be part of Ireland’s Olympic team in Paris in 2024.

“Coral Leisure Killarney look forward to welcoming Beibhinn to Killarney during her time as our Brand Ambassador,” added Daniel O'Donoghue the Assistant Manager Killarney Sports and Leisure Centre.

AMBASSADOR: Ireland women’s Rugby Union International Beibhinn Parsons will visit Killarney later this year.

Ireland women's Rugby Union International Beibhinn Parsons will visit Killarney later this year.

A SPA-tacular night of celebration

The Christmas and New Year period are proving to be extra busy for Spa GAA Club.

No sooner was their annual awards night completed, members are now looking forward to a visit by GAA President Larry McCarthy.

On Thursday last (December 29), the club held its annual awards ceremony at Hilliard’s on Main St.

Hosted by club legend and former Killarney town Mayor Michael Gleeson, a large crowd turned out to celebrate the achievements of club members in 2022.

Vice-Chairman Conor Gleeson stood in for Chairman Michael Cronin on the night and presented long-serving member Seamus O’Donoghue with the coveted Lifetime Achievement Award.

All-Ireland winner Mairead Mangan received the Social/Cultural Award in memory of Neilí and Tadhg O'Sullivan.

Young Player of the Year, the Aidan Cronin Award, went to Timmy Moynihan, while Oliver Cremin Mulrey received the Junior Player of the Year Award named after Pat Corcoran.

Mairead Bennett picked up the Senior Ladies Player of the Year award as chosen by her teammates.

The coveted Senior Player, named after John Doyle, was received by Shane Cronin.

“The Sam Maguire Cup made a special entrance with the help of senior players Dara Moynihan and Dan O’Donoghue,” PRO, Deirdre O’Sullivan D’Arcy, said.

“Entertainment was excellent with a piano bar and followed by Rachel O’Shaughnessy. The staff, food, and venue of Hilliard's was top-class and superb.

Thanks to the hard-working committee of Andrew Garnett, Anne Holland, Adrian O'Sullivan, Ivor Flynn and Triona Mangan. A great night was had by all.”

Meanwhile, the club has announced that its Cairde Spa draw will take place at the clubhouse on February 2.

Special guest on the night will be GAA President Larry McCarthy.

The Cairde Spa draw is raising funds for the development and upgrade works at the club grounds, including a new car park, new juvenile and ladies' dressing rooms, dugouts, a skills wall, upgrades to the walking track, lighting, perimeter fencing around the pitches and much more.

There are 10 amazing prizes up for grabs: 1st Prize: €15,000 - 2nd Prize: €3,000 - 3rd Prize: €2,000 - 4th Prize: €1,0005th Prize: Two nights Dinner, B&B at the Killarney Park Hotel - 6th Prize: €500 Voucher 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 - 10th Prize: Signed Kerry jersey.

Tickets can be obtained from Andy 087 2236754 or Deirdre 085 1216359, on spagaa.com or any club officers over the coming weeks.

WINNER: Spa Senior Ladies Player of the Year Mairead Bennett receiving her award from Ladies Chairperson Emma Daly. Photo: Anne Holland

Ger Cronin presenting the Aidan Cronin Young Player of the Year award to Timmy Moynihan. Photo: Anne Holland

Shane Cronin receiving the John Doyle Senior Player of the Year award from John Doyle Snr. Photo: Anne Holland

COMMITTEE: Spa Awards Committee with the Sam Maguire Cup, Andrew Garnett, Anne Holland, Ivor Flynn, Triona Mangan and Adrian O'Sullivan. Photo: Anne Holland

SAM: Spa's Dan O'Donoghue and Dara Moynihan received a Special Recognition award on the night from Spa Vice-Chairman Conor Gleeson. Photo: Anne Holland

FAMILY: Spa Social and Cultural Award winner Mairead Mangan with her family Triona, Ger, Ann and Shane. Photo: Anne Holland

AWARD WINNERS: 2022 Spa GAA award winners from front l-r: Conor Gleeson (Spa GAA Vice-Chairman), Dan O'Donoghue, Seamus O'Donoghue, Dara Moynihan. Back l-r: Mairead Bennett, Shane Cronin, Oliver Cremin Mulrey, Timmy Moynihan and Mairead Mangan. Photo: Anne Holland

Next phase of Kilcummin Sewerage Scheme begins

This project will reduce the reliance on on-site treatment systems such as septic tanks and package treatment plants.

As part of the project, being delivered by Coffey Construction on behalf of Uisce Éireann and Kerry County Council, road closures on Killarney Road and Kilcummin Road will be required for the duration of the pipeline works however local and emergency access will be maintained at all times. It is anticipated that the closures will be in place for the following durations:

Kilcummin Road, from Lower Coolcorcoran Road to Upper Coolcorcoran Road from 3 January to 31 March.

Killarney Road, from Coolcorcoran Cross to Kilcummin Village from 3 January to 8 September.

Diversion routes will be signposted on approach and Uisce Éireann will endeavour to minimise delays/disruptions to

local traffic.

Once complete, the scheme will provide a new sewer collection system for Kilcummin village, that will ensure wastewater from the village is treated appropriately. Once operational, the new sewerage scheme will connect into the sewer network in Killarney town, where it will be collected and transferred to Killarney Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) for appropriate treatment.

“We are now commencing the next phase of this vital project that will accommodate future population growth in Kilcummin and will enhance the local environment," David Shalloo, Wastewater Regional Delivery Lead with Uisce Éireann, said.

"The scheme will ensure compliance with wastewater discharge regulations. It will also improve water quality in the River Deenagh and Lough Leane and protect

recreational waters for swimming, fishing, boating and sightseeing. “This phase will require a lengthy traffic management plan, particularly on Killarney Road. However, this is necessary for us to safely deliver this essential project. We would like to thank the people of Kilcummin who have worked with us throughout this project and thank them for their patience as we progress into this phase.”

The new sewerage infrastructure to be constructed as part of this scheme will include a sewer network for Kilcummin village, a pumping station, and approximately 6kms of sewers.

Works on the project commenced in late 2022, with the entirety of the project due for completion in 2024.

Uisce Éireann and Kerry County Council will continue to update the local community in Kilcummin as works progress.

TRADITIONAL MUSIC & SONG

CLASSICAL & CONTEMPORARY

Singing & Voice Training

Saxophone, Clarinet

Classical Violin

Classical Flute

Piano, Keyboard, Keyboard Skills

Acoustic Guitar

Electric Guitar, Ukulele

Piano Accompaniment Music Theory

** New Little Mozarts & Singing Super-Stars with Sorcha O Connor - Singing and basic Theory class for Children ages 5-6 yrs

PERFORMANCE & DRAMA

Stageworks: Performance preparation class –

** New StageWorks Choir with Siobhain Bustin Explore the fun and social sides of singing Youth Choir ages 6-13yrs

Adult Choir male & female mixed Speech & Drama for Childrenwith Ray O Sullivan AIBSD ** New “Tunes & Craic” Adult Session Group with Padraig Buckley

Sadness as Johnny ‘The Rock’ dies in house fire

The Glenflesk community woke to the worst possible news on St Stephen’s Day when they learned that Johnny 'The Rock' O'Brien, had died in a house fire.

A passing motorist alerted emergency services after seeing the fire in the early hours of last Monday morning (December 26).

It is understood that the fire was already at an advanced stage by the time the fire services arrived at the scene and nothing could be done to save Mr O’Brien.

A popular local figure, ‘The Rock’ was a farmer who lived his entire life at the roadside farmhouse near Glenflesk. Mr O'Brien was supposed to climb The Paps with a group of locals on Monday morning to raise funds for the Brian Lawlor Trust and Kerry Cancer Support. Climbers brought the Sam Maguire Cup with them as part of the fundraiser.

He is survived by his brother Michael, sisters Margaret and Joan, brothers-inlaw Dave and Thomas, nephews, nieces, relatives and a large circle of friends. He was laid to rest on December 29 at Killaha Cemetery following Requiem Mass in St Agatha's Church Glenflesk.

TRAGEDY: Johnny ‘The Rock’ died in a house fire on Christmas night.

REVIEW 2022

IN KILLARNEY

PUBLICATION

CLARITY: Cllr Brendan Cronin has been campaigning for improvement works at Madams Hill for years

MOTION: Mayor Marie Moloney will seek clarity on the funding at the next Killarney Municipal District meeting

TOWN CENTRE: Niall 'Botty' O' Callaghan says people want to go about their business in the town centre with out facing traffic jams

IMMEDIATE: Cllr John O’Donoghue stated that the work needs to get underway on all projects as soon as possible.

Councillors demand clarity on multi-million road funding

| By Sean Moriarty

Elected councillors in the Killarney Municipal District are to seek clarity on road funding that was announced by Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan just before Christmas.

Some of the most eagerly awaited road projects in Killarney have been included in a multi-million Euro national road funding allocation totalling €676 million to local authorities for 2022.

The biggest local project is the Park Road to Ballyspillane roundabout which is in line for €1.2 million.

The next phase of the new road between Farranfore and Killarney will get €800,000.

The much anticipated and badly needed realignment of the Lewis Road Junction will get €30,000.

Several other very important road schemes are also in line for funding. These include, Agahdoe (€30,000);

Torc to Muckross (€10,000); Fossa (€10,000); Torc to Dinis (€50,000); Muckross Road (€10,000) and Rathmore (€10,000).

CLARITY

“I very much welcome this funding, in particular for the junction of Lewis Road and Aghadoe that I have been pursuing for some time,” Cllr Marie Moloney told the Killarney Advertiser. “I do however have concerns that the amounts allocated may not be enough to carry out all the works that need to be done at these junctions as major works needs to be carried out. I have tabled a Notice of Motion for the January meeting asking that clear details be given on the works that are planned. We are still not clear as to whether or not a roundabout will be provided at the Aghadoe junction which I believe is the only answer to the problems people coming down from Aghadoe are experiencing.”

Town plunged into darkness following major fault

| By Michelle Crean

Killarney town was completely plunged into darkness yesterday evening (Thursday) due to a major power outage which affected over 5,000 customers.

Homes and businesses were severely impacted by the major fault which, according to the ESB, happened in the Woodford area.

There was an eerie sense in the streets as multiple alarms sounded throughout the town due to the sudden cut to power.

Some customers didn’t have to wait long as power was restored soon after. It’s believed, according to the EBS that homes and businesses experienced the first outage at 6.39pm - but more

DARKNESS: Cars driving up High St during the major power outage.

later lost power.

In total 5,353 customers were affected. Restore time, according to powercheck.ie for the remainder of those affected, was currently unknown at the time of going to print.

Dundag Dippers feature on RTÉ

| By Sean Moriarty

Members of the Dundag Dippers swimming group found themselves at the centre of national attention last week after they featured on both of RTÉ’s main news bulletins.

Nollaig na mBan or Women’s Little Christmas is a tradition that is kept alive in Kerry and is enjoying a re-birth across the country.

It is a day for the women of Ireland to take a well-earned rest after spending Christmas week preparing meals for the rest of their households.

It is also the official day to take down the Christmas decorations – doing so before this date is considered unlucky.

While traditionally considered a day of rest for the woman of Ireland these days the more adventurous take part in various outdoor activities too.

The Dundag Dippers marked Nollaig na mBan with their traditional January 6 swim in Muckross Lake.

Their annual swim earned the attention of the national broadcaster who sent reporter Jenny O’Sullivan to the lakeshore.

“It is all about tradition,” she told viewers as the news camera captured a large group braving the elements and taking a swim in the lake.

The newsreel also featured the Dromhall Hotel where Susan Randles spoke of the influence her mother Kay has had on the Killarney hotel industry.

McDonald’s could close Drive Thru if traffic disruption persists

| By Sean Moriarty

A customer service agent working for McDonalds Restaurants has told a Killarney councillor that they “may determine it necessary to close Drive Thrus if there is local disruption”.

For the third time in less than six months concerns have been raised over traffic congestion at the fast food outlet.

Traffic at the popular fast food restaurant has increased as a result of the pandemic. Diners are encouraged to eat take away food and the indoor section of McDonalds remains closed. Traffic, at certain times during the day, queues along Park Road, as the

customers wait their turn at the drive through.

Once they are served, motorists then park on double yellow lines or on footpaths while they await their order or to eat their meal in the car.

The illegal parking is causing stress for locals who live in the large estate to the rear of the restaurant.

They are also concerned that emergency vehicles will not be able to gain access to the estate as a result of the inconsiderate parking.

At a recent Killarney Municipal District meeting, Mayor Marie Moloney said: “This is not good enough, people cannot get into their own homes,” while Cllr John O’Donoghue added: “residents are prisoners in their own homes.”

TRADITION: Brave Killarney ladies, who went in for a dip in Muckross Lake, Killarney National Park, to celebrate Nollaig na mBan on January 6. Photo: Valerie O’Sullivan

CONCERNS: Emergency vehicles cannot access the estate because of traffic issued at McDonalds.

“There are no words to say how thankful I am”

Over €60k raised in 24 hours for Karin’s vital treatment

| By Michelle Crean

A Killarney teacher who launched a fundraiser for vital treatment for a debilitating illness says she is “grateful” and “overwhelmed” after it reached over €60k in just 24 hours.

Karin O’Shea (26) said she had “exhausted” all treatments in Ireland and has no option but to get expensive treatment abroad for Lymes disease.

The Kilgarvan native, who had to quit her teaching job in St Brendan’s College due to her illness, thought it might take months to raise just half of the €45,000 amount needed to pay for

treatment, flights and accommodation, but is now looking at heading to Germany next month thanks to people’s generosity.

Karin has experienced immense damage to her immune and nervous system over the past 12 years including debilitating neurological symptoms, excruciating nerve pain, migraines, head pressure, short term memory loss, episodes of body paralyses and tremors, slurred speech, fainting, loss of balance, extreme exhaustion, insomnia and nausea.

After visits to countless consultants, undergoing X-Rays, scans, MRIs, and hospital admissions, she says she still had no answers.

Couple dash to Ukraine to meet newborn son

| By Sean Moriarty

A Killorglin couple have this week experienced the most intense emotions - as they entered a potential warzone - to meet their baby son for the very first time.

Parents Dermot and Dorothy Moynihan were awestruck and overcome with relief to finally meet their newborn son Luke - who was born by surrogacy in Ukraine this week.

His parents travelled from Kerry to the city of Lviv on Wednesday despite the Irish Government warning against travel to the country that is on the brink of an invasion by the Russian Army.

Yesterday the surrogate mother and baby Luke were discharged from the

maternity hospital and Dermot and Dorothy are now caring for their baby in a Lviv hotel - but their ordeal is far from over.

Lviv is about 100km east of the Polish border and a four hour drive from Krakow where they need to get to as soon as they can overcome the redtape they face.

“It is just a wild dream come true” - Jessie

Oscar nomination for Killarney’s golden girl

| By Michelle Crean

The town - and indeed the country - felt a huge swell of pride for their own golden girl Jessie Buckley who has received the nod for an Oscar nomination this week.

It has been an incredible week for the talented actress who not only shines on stage but also on screen as she also received a BAFTA nomination for ‘Best Supporting Actress’ in ‘The Lost Daughter’ playing the character Leda. In the film directed by Maggie Gyllenhaal, Jessie played Olivia Colman’s younger self in a story about a college professor who confronts her unsettling past.

The nominees for the 94th Academy Awards were announced live from Los Angeles on Tuesday afternoon. However, Jessie’s father Tim Buckley said that she only found out after a phone call from her brother who lives in France.

“Her brother in France happened to be scrolling through YouTube and saw it being announced live. She was surprised as he was the first to tell her,” he told the Killarney Advertiser.

Jessie is daughter of Tim and Marina, and he said that they are extremely proud of their hardworking daughter.

“We’re just so proud. To get a nomination the film needs to go on a campaign and this one didn’t. It’s nice for her to get a bit of recognition - these things are not given out like confetti.”

Pedestrianisation continues to divide the town Pedestrianisation

footprint.

This temporary measure has been in place since July 2020 to allow for “COVID-19 Town Centre Mobility Measures”.

On Monday next most COVID-19 restrictions will be lifted in Ireland. However, this week Kerry County Council announced that the ‘Safe Streets’ project will continue until least December 31 this year.

This means Plunkett St will remain pedestrianised and footpaths in the town centre will retain their wider

The Killarney Advertiser asked readers online “after nearly two years should the current pedestrianisation of Plunkett St (and associated projects) continue or should the town return to its pre-COVID-19 layout”.

Some respondents (54.12%) want to keep the current layout while 45.88% want the town centre to return to its pre-pandemic layout.

| By Sean Moriarty and Tristan O’Donoguhe

RELIEF: Killarney teacher Karin O’Shea says she is overwhelmed after over €60,000 was raised in just 24 hours to help her get vital treatment for a debilitating illness.

JOURNEY OF A LIFETIME: Dermot and Dorothy Moynihan travelled to Ukraine despite the immediate risk of war.

OSCAR NOD: Jessie Buckley (right), pictured with her co-star Dakota Johnson, has been nominated for an Oscar for her role in the Netflix film ‘The Lost Daughter’.

Honorary Gardai on duty this Sunday

| By Michelle Crean

Four local children will be donning their specially sized Garda uniforms and reporting for duty in Killarney.

“It’s about helping humanity”

The overwhelming amount of donations pouring in from thousands countywide to help Ukrainian people has left organisers overwhelmed and extremely emotional this week.

A week ago Russia declared war on neighbouring country Ukraine leaving millions terrified for their lives, hundreds - including young children - dead, and millions fleeing to nearby countries seeking safe refuge.

A compassionate plea to the people of Kerry was made by Polish people living in Killarney, for practical donations to help those who left Ukraine with just

| By Michelle Crean

the clothes on their backs, and donations are pouring in across different drop off points in Kerry including Killarney.

Practical items such as blankets, sleeping bags, camping mats, towels, shampoos, soap, shower gels, toothpaste, toothbrushes, sanitary towels, wet wipes, Pampers, toilet paper, dry food including rice, pasta, tinned fish, meat and vegetables, baby food, chocolate, tea, coffee, and sugar were donated.

Konrad Paprocki, Iza Dian, Diana Sobas Gorka say the response “has been incredible”.

Killarney preparing to welcome Ukrainians

| By Sean Moriarty

Up to 650 Ukrainians - who had no option but to flee their war torn country - are to be rehomed in Kerry including two Killarney hotels, some by the end of the long weekend.

The refugees are also to be housed in hotels in Tralee and Cahersiveen.

Some have already arrived at the Earl of Desmond Hotel just outside Tralee.

The Killarney Advertiser understands that two local hotels are being prepared to welcome refugees as early as this weekend.

A new interagency group was established in Kerry.

The group is to coordinate the response to the arrival of Ukrainian refugees in the county.

It includes a wide range of statutory, community, and voluntary agencies as well as representatives of the HSE and the Department of Social Protection.

The Mayor of Killarney Marie Molo-

ney has praised the people behind the ‘Kerry for Ukraine’ charity.

They have already shipped close to 200 pallets of goods to the Polish border and one local truck load is said to have made it all the way to Kyiv, the under-attack Ukrainian capital.

As part of the Little Blue Heroes (LBH) foundation, the four include Alexis O’Mahony from Park Rd, Kate Lehane from Ballycasheen, Frankie O’Sullivan from Killarney town and newest recruit Alannah Foley from Killorglin, who are excited to be part of the Bumblebee 1000 VIP Drive, which is raising funds for the Little Blue Heroes garda charity.

As part of the campaign, local Gardai nominate children in their locality who are suffering with serious illnesses or who have battled and recovered from serious illnesses to be made honorary Gardai, recognising how tough and resilient these little children are.

Killarney Garda Gillian McEoin said she became involved in the LBH campaign

due to her own daughter’s health challenges when she was younger.

“I got involved in it due to my own experiences with Ella and wanting to recognise these amazing children who undergo these serious illnesses like warriors,” Gillian told the Killarney Advertiser.

Local businesses donate €17k to Ukrainian appeal

| By Michelle Crean

Emergency aid including food and medical goods - all the way from Killarney - was delivered to a Winnica Hospital in Ukraine on Wednesday, and it couldn’t have been done without the generous €17,000 donated by local businesses.

Several business people from Killarney - so moved by the horrific invasion of Ukraine by Russian troops under Putin’s command - dug deep to help pay for trucks to deliver 200 pallets collected locally.

Independent Irish Health Foods owner Henry Bartlett donated a massive €10,000, while Paul Fitzgerald from

Paul Fitzgerald & Son Building Supplies Ltd, Mike from Cronin’s Quarries, Fleury Engineering, Boyles Patio Centre, as well as Offaly based business Condron Group Tullamore gave a combined €7k to O’Neills Transport. And what’s more is Colm O’Neill from O’Neills Transport also paid for a truck to bring some of the goods so kindly donated by Killarney people all the way to Poland.

Now all trucks have arrived safely to their destinations, and donations are now being sorted and distributed among those in need.

“All the goods sent from Killarney went directly to Ukraine,” one of the organisers of the donations, Konrad Paprocki, told the Killarney Advertiser.

OVERWHELMED: Iza Dian, Diana Sobas Gorka and Konrad Paprocki who are organising the Kerry for Ukraine collection are overwhelmed by the countywide support.

Photo: Michelle Crean

READY TO DONATE: Some of the donations for Ukraine were held back to be given to Ukrainian refugees expected to arrive in to Killarney over the weekend. Photo: Gosia Miczek

LITTLE GARDA: Little Blue Hero Alexis O’Mahony from Park Rd pictured with local Garda Gillian MacEoin.

DONATION: Independent Irish Health Foods owner Henry Bartlett donated a massive €10,000 to help get trucks on the road with items from the Kerry/ Ukraine collection.

Residents anger at proposed 228-unit development

| By Sean Moriarty

Residents of the Millwood Estate and Port Road areas are up in arms over a proposed 228-unit housing development that is being mooted for the area.

Portal Asset Holdings Ltd has lodged planning permission with Kerry County Council for the construction of a development of 76 houses, 56 duplexes and 96 apartments on a green field site to the rear of the District Hospital on St

Margaret’s Road and to the rear of the traditional cottages on Port Road.

It is proposed to build an access road off the Port Road too.

The proposed development includes upgrade works to Port Road, a pedestrian connection to Millwood Estate, and improvements to the stormwater network on St Margaret’s Road as part of enabling infrastructure for the project.

Residents believe that a project of this size is not suitable for many reasons.

The Grand reopens with some brand new features

| By Sean Moriarty

After 760 days of closure The Grand - a much-loved favourite haunt for locals and visitors - is finally back in business.

Lawlor’s Cross man drives coach for mercy mission

| By Sean Moriarty

A well-known Killarney man was among a group of volunteer drivers who drove a fleet of coaches over five days and 5,000kms to help displaced Ukrainians.

Humphrey Kerins was part of a Paddywagon Tours convoy to Warsaw last week as five coaches delivered much needed aid to refugees in the Polish city. The equipment was delivered to a regional sports centre that is now acting as a distribution hub for the donated supplies.

The coaches returned with around 50 Ukrainians who have been re-homed in Ireland - including Killarney. Each bus had two different drivers

who shared driving stints resulting in a non-stop drive from Dublin to Warsaw and back.

Humphrey was among the group of 10 drivers who made the journey. Two other Kerry drivers also drove buses. They were Gabriel Finn from Annascaul who is the Transport Manager with Paddywagon Tours and DJ O’Connor from Kielduff.

Paddywagon Tours is a customer of Humphrey’s Lawlor’s Cross Garage and when he heard that they were looking for volunteer drivers he jumped at the chance to help.

“They had over 300 applications but I know the transport manager as we do a lot of work for them, so I got selected,” Humphrey told the Killarney Advertiser. “It was a great thing to do.”

Killarney’s top music venue reopened on Wednesday night. The pub/nightclub closed on March 14 2020 – one of the first pubs to pull the plug a week before Coronavirus took hold of the world – and since last August owner Patsy Sheehan and his team have been busy refurbishing the popular late

night venue.

Punters will instantly recognise the layout of the main bar but dozens of framed photos of Irish musicians now adorn the walls.

The positioning of these photos reflect what is happening in the bar. The walls of the front bar are decorated with pictures of some the region’s best loved trad-musicians and this is where the nightly Irish music sessions take place. Further in guests will admire photos of Irish rockers like The Edge, Hozier and Sinéad O’Connor placed along walls in front of the main stage.

Jessie’s rocking it with new album

| By Michelle Crean

Not only is she an Oscar and BAFTA nominated actor but all round entertainer Jessie Buckley has released a brand new rock album.

Jessie from Muckross, who won an Olivier award just weeks ago, has made the new collaborative 12-track album ‘For All Our Days That Tear The Heart’ with award-winning British producer and musician Bernard Butler, who played with Suede and The Tears. It’s the first time the two have worked together after being introduced by a

mutual friend. It all started with a FaceTime call from Butler’s North London kitchen to Buckley’s mountaintop residence in Kerry, with their friendship growing from an unlikely shared love of Killarney

The project’s first single, ‘The Eagle and The Dove’, which is 5 minutes and 49 seconds long and directed by Harvey Pearson, is now available to hear online.

Jessie is well known for her singing talents including her time with Killarney Musical Society growing up and her appearance as a wannabe Country Music singer in ‘Wild Rose’.

ANGER: Residents of Millwodd Estate highlight the congestion just five cars can cause in their estate. Photo: Tristan O’Donoghue

DRIVERS: The group of Paddywagon Tours drivers, included Humphrey Kerins (Killarney), Gabriel Finn (Annascaul) and DJ O’Connor (Kielduff) on their way to Poland last week.

NEW SOUNDS: Jessie Buckley has released a brand new rock album with award-winning British producer and musician Bernard Butler.

GRAND RE-OPENING: Brothers-in-law and publicans Patsy Sheehan and Dan Dowling have re-opened The Grand after 760 days of closure. Photo: Michelle Crean

CONTROVERSY: The proposed development consists of 76 houses, 56 duplexes and 96 apartments on a greenfield site close to the Port Road.

Anger as Port Road development heads for An Bord Pleanála

| By Sean Moriarty

Kerry County Council has recommended that planning permission be granted for a controversial development on Port Road despite widespread objections from elected councillors.

Portal Asset Holdings Ltd has lodged planning permission with Kerry County Council for the construction of a development of 76 houses, 56 duplexes and 96 apartments on a greenfield site to the rear of the District Hospital on St Margaret’s Road and to the rear of the traditional cottages on Port

Road.

It is proposed to build an access road off the Port Road too.

The proposed development includes upgrade works to Port Road, a pedestrian connection to Millwood Estate, and improvements to the stormwater network on St Margaret’s Road as part of enabling infrastructure for the project.

Last month the application caused anger amongst residents of the area who fear their quality of life will be affected by the development.

The application is set to go before An Bord Pleanála.

Tributes paid to talented local actor Donie Courtney

| By Michelle Crean and Sean Moriarty

Tributes have been paid to one of Killarney’s best-loved sons, Donie Courtney, who died after a short illness last Saturday.

The untimely passing of talented actor, renowned drama coach, playwright, producer, director and performer, Donal ‘Donie’ Courtney (52), has sent shockwaves through the town and beyond.

The Ardshanavooley man, son of former town councillor Michael and his wife Sheila Courtney, was best known for his one man show ‘God Has No Country’ as part of the Monsignor Hugh O’Flaherty Society.

Most recently he had set up the West End House School of Arts in Killarney, a professional acting school with his close friend and Hollywood actor Michael Fassbender.

“He stay with me always,” Michael Fassbender, who Donie first introduced to acting, said in a tribute to his friend.

“I met Donie when I was 17-years-old. The encounter was something that would change my life immeasurably. We remained firm friends ever since,” Michael said.

“The first thing that struck me about Donie was how he engaged with me as a peer and not a teenager. He had a positivity to him that was absolutely infectious and an endless generosity both as a performer and human being. His talent was as much a force of nature as it was eminent. His sense of human nature was uncanny.

“He is remembered by his family first and foremost, which for him was where his inspiration, joy and heart belonged. The rest of us will feel blessed and lucky for whatever time we’ve been able to share in his company."

Construction starts on outdoor dining but Jarveys not happy

| By Sean Moriarty

The much awaited €600,000 outdoor dining project for the town finally began construction this week - but not everyone is happy about its timing due to the start of the tourism season.

The Bord Fáilte funded scheme, part of the town’s response to COVID-19, will include a 620 square-metre outdoor dining area consisting of paving, landscaping, and lighting, of which 210 square-metres will be a covered dining area, was given the green light in September last year. It was hoped to have been fully completed last month at the very latest.

After months of planning, funding applications and a tender process, con-

struction work finally began this week. A new protective hoarding has been erected on Kenmare Place to prevent members of the public accidently walking into the construction site and to prevent construction material spilling on to public walkways.

As a result the roadway has become much narrower. The bus setdown area in Kenmare Place is no longer available and the number of Jarvey stands at the adjacent HaHa have been reduced. While Jarveys are not opposed to the overall plan, they believe the timing of the project is wrong as the town prepares to enter its peak tourism season. However, one of the funding conditions for the public outdoor dining area is that construction must be completed by a certain date.

Killarney woman completes every parkrun in the country

| By Sean Moriarty

A Killarney woman has entered the record books after completing every parkrun in the country – and more.

There are one hundred open parkruns in Ireland and a further three that take place behind closed doors in prisons and in health institutions and Majella Moloney has completed all of them.

On Saturday last she completed the Irish list by finishing the Borrisokane run in County Offaly.

She was inspired to take up parkruns by her work colleague Stephen Byrne after suffering a personal crisis in 2017.

“It is so good for my mental health, I can’t explain the feel good factor,” she told the Killarney Advertiser. “My personal circumstances changed dramatically in January 2017 and I needed to do something for my mental health.”

She has also done parkruns all over

Europe; in total she has participated in 178 runs in countries like Britain, Germany, Poland and Italy.

She has also volunteered for 180 parkruns, often acting as ‘tail walker’ on the event she had entered.

UNHAPPY: Several jarveys, including Dan Doona, Patrick O’Sullivan and Mike Griffin, as well as Cllr Donal Grady, are not happy about the current works on Kenmare Place.

RECORD: Stephen Byrne, the man who introduced Majella Moloney to parkrun, was at the finish line in Borrisokane to present her with a certificate to mark her achievement.

TRIBUTE: The late Donie Courtney introduced Michael Fassbender to acting when the now Hollywood star was just 17-years-old. Photo: The Gaiety School Of Acting

Miss Keane closes her school books after 43 year’s dedicated service

| By Michelle Crean

From days of “chalk and talk” right through to today’s modern and sophisticated technologies - one teacher has inspired thousands - but today (Friday) she officially closed her books after 43 years.

After 43 years, teacher Marcia Kissane (nee Keane) who is described as “a brilliant teacher” and “highly respected” is leaving Killarney Community College (KCC) ready to take on a new life challenge.

From the moment she entered the old Tech in New Street in September 1979 she said she received a warm Killarney welcome.

“I felt and knew I had found my spe-

cial work place,” she told the Killarney Advertiser.

“For me, Killarney Community College is a place rich in experience where I have had the pleasure and privilege of knowing and working with the most wonderful people with students and colleagues.”

In teaching, as in life, the one constant is change, she added.

She taught the old Group Cert and Inter Cert through to the latest modes of assessment in the new Junior Certificates and Leaving Certificate.

Marcia also made GAA history in May 1992 as a selector on the Kerry VEC football team that won the All-Ireland inter-county series. She was the first female selector in an all-male management team to win an All-Ireland inter-county football final at Croke Park.

Tributes to ‘The Boss’ Sean Coyne

| By Michelle Crean

Tributes have been paid to the late Seán Coyne, a very prominent local businessman, who passed away last Friday.

The popular Mr Coyne was best known for his auctioneering and hotel businesses, but he also laid the foundation for what is now known as Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce.

He was also a hugely charitable man and was a founding member of Kerry Parents and Friends

In sporting circles he was a life-long member of Killarney Golf and Fishing Club and served as its captain on two occasions.

“We are heartbroken at the loss of our adored dad and husband, and he has

left a gaping hole in our lives as well as our hearts, not to mention the huge boots he has left for us to collectively fill. We will do our best,” his daughter Tracy told the Killarney Advertiser.

Killarney recognises one of its most famous daughters

| By Michelle Crean

A Killarney woman responsible for saving countless lives during World War 2 was honoured on Tuesday afternoon during a special ceremony and plaque unveiling on Mission Road.

Janie McCarthy, born in 1885 at Bohereen na Goun, New Street, played

a key role in opposing the Nazi occupation of France during World War 2 and her heroic efforts are akin to those by Monsignor Hugh O’Flaherty in Rome.

Mayor Marie Moloney had, in the past, called for Janie to be honoured in a similar way to the Monsignor who has a life sized statue erected in his honour on Mission Road.

Sadhbh is hoping she can make the cut!

| By Michelle Crean

From 400 entrants down to 40 - a Killarney stylist is hoping that she can make the cut this coming Monday at a major hairdressing competition.

Peter Mark stylist Sadhbh Clifford is a finalist in the L’Oreal Colour Trophy Awards - and on the day is hoping that the overall award will be within her reach.

Sadhbh will go head to head with the 40 others from around the country in the The Round Room at the Mansion House in Dublin. And the pressure will be on as judges will be watching their every move all day as they colour and style their models.

Later there’ll be a fashion show and the winner will be revealed.

Sadhbh from Firies completed the Peter Mark four year apprenticeship programme last year after joining the East Avenue Road salon in 2017.

She then studied the Colour Specialist Course which she recently completed. Then it was time to challenge herself by entering the upcoming competition - and now the nerves are setting in.

“I am nervous,” Sadhbh told the Killarney Advertiser.

“This is my first time and it’s all a learning curve.”

She added that there are many different categories but she’s keeping her fingers crossed!

THE BOSS: Sean Coyne, a prominent and popular businessman was laid to rest this week.

FINALIST: Peter Mark stylist Sadhbh Clifford is a finalist in the L’Oreal Colour Trophy Awards.

43 YEAR’S SERVICE: Teacher Marcia Kissane (nee Keane) said farewell after 43 years inspiring students at Killarney Community College.

UNVEILING: Mayor of Killarney Marie Moloney unveiled a plaque on Mission Road on Tuesday afternoon in honour of Killarney native Janie McCarthy recognising her heroic work saving lives during World War 2.

Photo: Michelle Crean

Major investment announced for Holy Cross Mercy School

| By Michelle Crean

An ambitious state-of-the-art building project, which will include four new special education classrooms, has been announced for Holy Cross Mercy School Killarney.

Minister for Education and Kerry TD Norma Foley made the announcement.

As part of the major additional accommodation programme four new special education teaching rooms will also be created while two rooms to deliver English as an additional language will be created from two ex-

isting classrooms. A withdrawal room and an additional bathroom are also included in the plans.

“I am delighted to announce this significant building project which will provide state-of-the-art facilities and further enhance the provision of special education at Holy Cross Mercy School in Killarney,” Minister Foley said.

“This major building project is an endorsement of the school community at Holy Cross for their tireless commitment, passion and endeavour to providing inclusive education to the young people of Killarney and surrounding areas and I look forward to this project continuing at pace.”

Swimmers success in national competition

| By Sean Moriarty

Two members of the Killarney Swimming Club were celebrating this week after strong performances in the National Division 2 Competition at the University of Limerick.

Ella Cremin (13) from Lisivigeen came home with two gold medals and one silver. Ella came first in the 100 metres Backstroke and the 50 metres Freestyle, and also came second in the 200 metres.

Ian Coffey (16) from Muckross had two excellent swims where he got two Personal Bests in the 200m Freestyle and 100m Breaststroke.

This is a huge achievement for Ella and Ian and for Killarney Swimming Club,” said club member Elaine O’Donoghue.

medals in Limerick.

Headford student researching cancer treatments

Five third level students, including a student from Headford, Killarney, will spend the summer researching increased understanding and possible new treatments for cancer patients in Ireland.

Their research, across a range of cancers, is being funded by Breakthrough Cancer Research Summer Scholarship Programme. The charity strives to ensure that patients have access to the best treatments for cancer and never have to be told that there is “no hope”.

Among the students are Headford’s Jessica Walsh of University College Cork.

She will research the effects of particular molecules on Vitamin D receptors in oesophageal cancer. In Ireland, approximately 500 people

RESEARCH: Nina Zumbrunn, Jessica Walsh, Tim Cronin and Sarah Badar are hoping to find breakthroughs in cancer care treatments this summer. Their research is being funded by Breakthrough Cancer Research Summer Scholarship Programme.

are diagnosed every year with this disease and if current projections continue, by 2045 annual cases of oesophageal cancer in men will increase by 115% and 109% in women.

David Clifford named Player of the Year

Kerry’s triumphant win over Galway in Sunday’s All Ireland Football final was watched by an average of 862,000 viewers and a share of 75% of those watching TV at the time.

Viewing numbers on RTÉ2 peaked at 5.03pm with 960,000 people watching as referee Sean Hurson added five minutes of extra time. There were 131,000 live streams on the RTÉ Player.

Following a tight match, the Sam

Liam O’Connor to headline RTÉ’s ‘Up For The Match’

Internationally

way will be broadcast by RTÉ on Saturday, the eve of the epic Sam Maguire clash.

The curtain-raiser for the All-Ireland Football Final between Kerry and Gal-

O’Connor, who has appeared on ‘Up For The Match’ several times before, will be opening the show with The Artane Band who are celebrating their

150th anniversary this year.

O’Connor will be accompanied by members of his own musical family, Saoirse, Oisin and Cillian. They will also close the show with a Galway band called Back West “‘Up For The Match’ has the great

Maguire Cup returns to the kingdom for the first time since 2014 after Sean O’ Shea received the cup from GAA President Larry McCarthy. Yesterday marked Kerry’s 38th Senior Championship title.

It was a momentous day for Kerry’s number 14, David Clifford, finally achieving his dream of winning his first Senior All-Ireland medal. During The Sunday Game he was firstly named ‘Man of the Match’ and RTÉ’s team of panellists also awarded him ‘The Sunday Game Player of the Year’.

knack of capturing the pre-game tensions and the general good-humour that shows the positive side of GAA football. It’s an honour to be part of it with members of my own family as well as the legendary Artane Band who have played for every one of our Presidents and adorned countless national occasions over the years,”

renowned Killarney musician Liam O’Connor will open RTÉ’s ‘Up For The Match’ on Saturday night.

TRIPLE: Ella Cremin won three

PLAYER OF THE YEAR: David Clifford celebrates with coach Paddy Tally and Kerry fans at Monday night's homecoming at Fitzgerald Stadium. Photo: Marie Carroll-O'Sullivan

Photo: Gerard McCarthy

Gardai appeal for information to help solve murder case

| By Michelle Crean

The 75-year-old mother of four and grandmother and was found dead at her home lunchtime on Monday by neighbours after her son Shane in Australia failed to make contact with her.

The devastating news sent shockwaves through the quiet estate, the whole town and beyond.

Garda Forensic Officers conducted a technical examination on Monday evening and again on Tuesday morning, while searches also took place along the Ross Road area.

A post-mortem examination was conducted on Tuesday afternoon at University Hospital Kerry by State Pathologist Dr Margot Bolster, the results of which were not released for operational reasons but Gardaí launched a murder investigation and shortly after a man in his 50s was arrested.

However, he was released from Garda custody without charge. A file is now

being prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Now Gardai are appealing to members of the public who were in the Ardshanavooley area between 5pm on Friday and 1pm lunchtime Monday to come forward.

“An Garda Síochána would like to express our sincere condolences to the family and friends of Miriam Burns,” Superintendent Flor Murphy told the Killarney Advertiser.

|

Construction of Kilcummin Water Scheme finally underway

By Michelle Crean

Irish Water, working in partnership with Kerry County Council, has today commenced works to provide a new sewer collection system for Kilcummin village. This project will reduce the reliance on on-site treatment systems such as septic tanks and package treatment plants. Coffey Construction was appointed to deliver the works on behalf of Irish Water.

Once complete, the scheme will pro-

vide a new sewer collection system for Kilcummin village, that will ensure wastewater from the village is treated appropriately.

David Shalloo, Wastewater Regional Delivery Lead with Irish Water, said: “Today signals a new beginning for the people of Kilcummin. All new infrastructure has been sized to accommodate future population growth and the project will enhance the local environment and provide a platform for social and economic development well into the future”.

Safety warnings issued as temperatures expected to soar

| By Michelle Crean

With temperatures set to soar up to 29 degrees in the coming days, sun seekers sizzling in the heat are being urged to be cautious to avoid heat stress, dehydration and severe sunburn.

A Status Yellow High Temperature warning has been issued by Met Éireann for the whole country which could see temperatures potentially reach 30 degrees Celsius over the weekend.

While the county is enjoying the much needed sunshine, many groups are advising caution including limiting their time outside to avoid serious sunburn, the risk of water related incidents, and to keep an eye on the vulnerable in the community, while the National Parks and Wildlife Service is appealing to the public about the risks of fires and the use of BBQs in Killarney National Park.

According to Met Eireann’s warning conditions are set to be very warm or hot with maximum temperatures generally of 27 to 29 degrees and locally higher. They said it will also be warm overnight with minimum

temperatures generally around 15 degrees.

“Members of the public intending to visit National Parks and Nature Reserves are reminded to adhere to regulations regarding the lighting of fires,” the NPWS said.

“It is an offence under the Wildlife Act 1976 to light of any fire which causes or is likely to cause the burning of any vegetation within one mile (1.6km) of a woodland or nature reserve, and those doing so may face prosecution. The use of BBQs or open fires is strictly prohibited.”

Planning for large-scale development refused

|

By Sean Moriarty

An Bord Pleanála has refused planning permission for a large scale development on Port Road - as it could potentially impact the Lesser Horseshoe Bats.

Portal Asset Holdings wanted to build 228 residential units consisting of 76 houses and 152 apartments, crèche and all associated site works between Port Road and St Margaret’s Road. The proposal was met with wide-

spread opposition from residents in the area and was referred to the planning board. A total of 50 observations were submitted to An Bord Pleanála. A decision was taken to refuse the application after concerns were raised about local wildlife habitats.

“Having regard to the proximity of the subject site to the Killarney National Park, MacGillycuddy’s Reeks and Caragh River Catchment candidate Special Area of Conservation it is considered that the proposed de-

velopment may result in increased artificial lighting generated at both the construction and operational phases of the development and that may impact on Lesser Horseshoe Bats that commute along routes to the west of the Port Road/Deenagh River. The submitted Appropriate Assessment Screening does not provide sufficient scientific reasoning to clearly eliminate the likelihood of significant adverse effects,” said Planning Inspector Paul O’Brien.

COOLING DOWN: Jarvey Billy Tagney looking after Dolly at The Hahah. Photo: Sean Moriarty

SHOCK: The late Miriam Burns who was found dead at her home in Ardshanavooley.

MAP: An overview of the scheme.

Killarney Gardai investigating the horrendous murder of Miriam Burns (née Kelliher) at her home in Ardshanavooley say they are totally committed to finding justice for her family.

Donie’s niece follows in his talented footsteps

| By Michelle Crean

The wonderful talent of the late Donal Courtney lives on through his beloved niece who has had her short film accepted for its US debut this October.

Jessica Courtney Leen’s second short film ‘Not My Sister’ will feature at the prestigious Newport Beach Film Festival in California.

The film, shot on location in Cork, sheds a light on the burden of societal expectations and the pressure they have historically put on women. With a nod to the lasting trauma of moth-

er and baby homes in Ireland and the taboo of sex in Irish society in culture, ‘Not My Sister’ captures the story of three women entangled in a web of societal shame and secretive survival.

“Donie was much more than an uncle to me,” Jessica, who trained at The Gaiety School of Acting in Dublin, told the Killarney Advertiser.

“He was my teacher and my connection to the arts, my continued professional mentor who taught me everything I know and practice, and a friend who called me every day just to check in. My work will always be because of him.”

Frustration as Outdoor Dining project further delayed

| By Sean Moriarty

Kerry County Council will be asked to explain why plans for the construction of the outdoor dining public space in Kenmare Place is falling so far behind.

The latest completion date promised by the Council is the end of September but one elected councillor believes this is unrealistic given the amount of work that remains on site.

Construction of the project, which is

funded by Fáilte Ireland, began in May this year with a three to four-month timeframe promised.

Late last month elected councillors were informed by email that the project will be completed by the end of September this year – just over two weeks away.

A lack of construction materials is the cause of the latest delay.

Cllr Brendan Cronin is going to raise the matter at next week’s Killarney Municipal District meeting.

Niall retires from The Gleneagle after 51 years’ service

| By Michelle Crean

For over five decades he has been the friendly face at The Gleneagle Hotel - and there’s not many he hasn’t met from around the country or the world - but this week it was time for Niall Doherty to say a final farewell.

Friends and colleagues gathered together to say goodbye to Niall who dedicated 51 years of his career to the hotel.

Niall began in hospitality in Jackson’s Bar in his native Ballybofey, Co. Donegal. In 1968 he moved to Killarney to take up a post as a barman at The Three Lakes Hotel. For the following three years, he divided his time between summers in Killarney and win-

ters in London but love intervened and had him settle in Killarney for good. Niall met his wife, Greta Breen from Glencar, in Killarney and by 1975 they were married.

Could Fitzgerald Stadium be in line for a major redevelopment?

| By Sean Moriarty

Fitzgerald Stadium could be in line for major Government funding.

A huge redevelopment project looks likely to be announced and there are already political moves, both nationally and locally, to secure funding for such a development.

During a recent visit to Kerry, Tánaiste Leo Varadkar and local Fine Gael TD Brendan Griffin visited the stadium as part of a day-long tour of the county.

A week later, Deputy Griffin referenced the visit during a Dáil debate.

“The Tánaiste saw the condition of the stadium, which requires substantial investment. In that context, I want to ask him when the next round of the large-scale sport infrastructure fund will open. It is an excellent fund for projects of that scale and a stadium such as Fitzgerald Stadium in Killarney, the home of Kerry football, certainly would be in line for an application under the fund. It is important that the next round be progressed.”

Family praise neighbours and Emergency Services after woman saved from house fire

| By Sean Moriarty

The twin sister and son of the woman who was rescued from a house fire in Killarney have praised the fast action of neighbours and Emergency Services.

Nora Duggan told the Killarney Advertiser that her sister, Margaret Moore would “not be here today” if two neighbours had not responded so quickly

last Friday night.

Emergency Services were called to reports of a fire at Arbutus Grove at 9.20pm.

On arrival to the scene, Emergency Services did not observe any obvious signs of a fire. However, when they reached the back of the house, they could see smoke billowing from a window.

“Theresa and James, they live each side of my sister, they made the first

calls,” Nora told the Killarney Advertiser. “I don’t know these people very well but they are always very good to my sister.”

There was reason to believe that the homeowner was inside so an attempt was made to enter. Efforts to gain entry through the front door were unsuccessful. A small window was then smashed, and Gardaí managed to unlock the door.

FAREWELL: Niall Doherty (right) pictured with Patrick O’Donoghue (Managing Director of the Gleneagle Group) as the hotel marked his retirement after 51 years’ service.

FILM: Niece of Killarney actor Donie Courtney, Jessica Courtney Leen, has had her film ‘Not My Sister’ accepted in the Newport Beach Film Festival in LA.

REDEVELOPMENT: Political moves in the background suggest a major redevelopment of Fitzgerald Stadium is on the cards. Photo: Tatyana McGough

LUCKY ESCAPE: Margaret Moore is recovering in hospital but her story could be a lot worse only for the quick action of her neighbours and the Emergency Services. Photo with kind permission of the Moore family

“The system is broken”

| By Michelle Crean

• 135 woman and children given 48 hours notice to move 300kms across the country

• Reversal of the decision to move made at the last hour

• Education Minister says reversal is “the right decision”

• 192 male asylum seekers arrived to the Hotel Killarney last week

• 25 male asylum seekers arrive to Hotel Killarney Tuesday

• 100 more women and children arrive to Hotel Killarney

• System at breaking point - KASI

The 135 Ukrainian women and children - who were given just 48 hours to pack their lives up and move

300kms across the country - now face further upheaval as they have no idea if, or when, they’ll have to pack up and move again.

The war-torn refugees were relieved and emotional to hear at the last hour that they could stay in Killarney.

The 48 hour notice to leave by letter came after the unexpected arrival of 192 asylum seekers to the Hotel Killarney at 11am one night last week which left the women and children shocked. It was decided by the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth that the Ukrainian women and children, who have been settling into life in Killarney, including securing jobs and school places since last March - would have to move out of the county.

Graveyard stabbing

| By Sean Moriarty and Michelle Crean

Gardaí are expected launch a formal murder enquiry after a Killarney man was killed while attending a funeral in Tralee on Wednesday afternoon.

Thomas Dooley, from Hazelwood Drive, suffered fatal stab wounds while attending the funeral of Killarney woman Bridget O’Brien, at Rath Cemetery on Wednesday - and was pronounced dead at the scene shortly afterwards.

Ms O’Brien, a mother of five who lived in St Michael’s Road Killarney and Rathass, Tralee, died suddenly in her sleep in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Mr Dooley and his wife Siobhan were attending her funeral when the attack occurred in Rath Graveyard during the burial. The victim’s wife, also aged in her 40s, suffered upper body stab wounds and was rushed to University Hospital Kerry where she underwent

surgery.

Gardaí and Emergency Services rushed to the scene which was preserved shortly afterwards by the Kerry Divisional Scenes of Crime Unit for a full technical examination.

Mr Dooley’s body was removed to University Hospital Kerry. The Coroner was been notified and a State post-mortem has been requested. The results of the post-mortem will determine the direction of the investigation.

€1.26m distributed to many worthy charities

| By Michelle Crean

A whopping €1.26 million was distributed to multiple charities on Friday evening last in Fossa.

Those in charge of the Ring of Kerry Cycle were delighted to invite representatives from the many charities benefitting from the event which took place in July after a two year absence due to COVID.

“The event turned out to be a great success despite inclement weather especially down south,” PRO for the Ring of Kerry Cycle, Cathal Walshe, speaking about the summer event, said.

Charities from all over came to join in

BBC appearance for Kilcummin man and his sheepdog

| By Michelle Crean

They say “a dog is man’s best friend” and for one Kilcummin man nothing could be more true as they compete this Sunday on one of the UK’s most popular weekly factual TV programmes.

Countryfile, which pulls in six million viewers a week will feature Tom O’Sullivan and his beloved award winning sheepdog ‘North Hill Tess’. After winning the International Supreme Championship last year - they

were invited to take part in the prestigious BBC1 ‘One Man and His Dog’ show.

However, he’s not revealing the outcome of the TV trials just yet, saying viewers will have to tune in this Sunday when the programme airs on BBC1 at 4.45pm.

“I haven’t competed on this programme before, the prize is ‘One Man and His Dog Champion 2022’ and a trophy will be presented on the show on Sunday night,” Tom, who has travelled all over Ireland and the UK with his dog, told the Killarney Advertiser.

€1.26m has been

the celebration at the weekend. The main beneficiaries were Ard Chúram Listowel, Banna Search and Rescue, Cunamh Iveragh, Cahersiveen, Down Syndrome Kerry, Irish Community Air Ambulance and Breakthrough Cancer Research.

“In addition we had the Irish Red Cross, South West Counselling Service, Killarney Water Rescue, Irish Pilgrimage Trust, Enable Ireland and Brú Columbanus, all of whom received €8,000,” Cathal added.

“€2,000 was allocated to 22 other charities throughout the county. The overall figure for this year came to a whopping €1.26 million an increase of €150,000 on the 2019 running.

SCENE: Gardai conducting a search of Rath Graveyard on Wednesday.

RELIEF: There was a large gathering at the Hotel Killarney to support the 135 Ukrainians who were being moved to Mayo. Photo: Michelle Crean

WORTHY CAUSES:

given out to many local charities due to the success of this year’s Ring of Kerry Cycle. Pictured were: Denis Cronin, Paul O’Sullivan (O’Sullivan Cycles) and Cathal Walshe.

TV APPEARANCE: Tom with his two daughters, Aoibhe and Kayleigh and his wife Mairead pictured on set for the BBC1 Countryfile programme.

Áras Phádraig masterplan approved by councillors

Plans for the redevelopment of Áras Phádraig on Lewis Road, were given the go ahead by elected councillors this week.

However, some had reservations about the inclusion of a HSE Primary Care Unit within the project.

Plans for the site, which has been idle since the Franciscan Friars donated it to the people of Killarney in 2009, were approved by elected members at Wednesday’s Killarney Municipal District Meeting.

Councillors were told that the inclu-

sion of the Primary Care Unit was a redline issue as without it funding under the Urban Regeneration and Development Fund would not be forthcoming for the entire project.

This did not sit well with elected councillors. Many felt that the HSE had enough of land lying idle within the town already. St Finan’s was given as an example.

They even sought to delay voting on accepting the masterplan put forward by Kerry County Council on Wednesday to allow more time to discuss issues with the HSE.

Residents to appeal glamping decision

| By Sean Moriarty

Residents have been left feeling angry and fear a surge in anti-social behaviour in their area after a glamping site was granted planning permission.

The Castle Falls Residents Association swept into action and organised a meeting on Thursday evening last in The Killarney Avenue Hotel to air their concerns when they learned that Kerry County Council gave the green light to Killarney Glamping of Ballycasheen to build 15 glamping pods within the

grounds of Killarney Racecourse. They now plan to lodge appeals to An Bord Pleanála.

The planning includes permission to build a parking area, an office and other associated site services like a recycling and rubbish enclosure.

There are 13 conditions attached to the planning including that a staff member or security staff needs to be on site every time the pods are occupied.

The residents are worried about anti-social behaviour, particularly late at night and other issues that they feel could devalue the worth of their properties.

The landmark Presentation Convent in Cathedral Place, has been sold for well in excess of its €1.5m asking price.

The property went on the market last month and estate agents Sherry FitzGerald Coghlan on New St have confirmed that the 1,411 sq. m building has been sold for an undisclosed sum after “exceptional” interest in the bidding process.

Estate agent Michael Coghlan was not

in a position to say who bought the building and what it will be used for going forward.

“It will end up coming to a very good use for the town,” he told the Killarney Advertiser. “It sold for well in excess of its asking price and we are very happy with the result.”

The sale heralds the beginning of a new era for that area of town.

Regardless of what plans the new owners have for the building, there is a lot of development set to take place in that area in the coming months and years.

Pretty Polly site to be transformed

| By Michelle Crean

The former Pretty Polly site, which has been derelict for years, is to be transformed into a major state-of-the-art educational facility.

On Monday morning, Kerry Education and Training Board (KETB) received approval to proceed to the next stage in developing a College of The Future (COTF) in Killarney.

The project proposed involves overhauling an existing factory site, includ-

ing the existing on-site buildings and transforming it into a state-of-the-art campus.

The intention is to transform the existing site it into a state-of-the-art campus to develop a Centre of Excellence in Hospitality Training, a Centre of Excellence for Renewable Energy and Sustainable Green Technologies and a Regional Centre of Excellence for Lifelong Learning.

The Killarney Campus will deliver training to 3,573 in the first year, 3,591 in year two and 3,609 in year three.

BIG NEWS: Cllr Brendan Cronin, Brendan Griffin TD, Education Minister Norma Foley and Jim Finucane (Chairman Kerry ETB) pictured as Minister Harris announces significant milestone for Kerry Education and Training Board at the former Pretty Polly site. Photo: Domnick Walsh

OLD: The Presentation Convent has been sold for well in excess of its €1.5m asking price.

| By Sean Moriarty

MEETING: Castle Falls Residents Association met last week to discuss their concerns on the new glamping project.

MASTERPLAN: The Áras Phádraig masterplan was approved by councillors.

Homing refugees worth almost €14m

| By Sean Moriarty

Hotels, B&Bs and other accommodation suppliers in the Killarney area have secured contracts in excess of €13 million to accommodate Ukraine war refugees.

The Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth released figures to the Killarney Advertiser.

Documents show that contracts totalling €13,852,255.00 are being shared between 13 premises in the Killarney urban area.

However, the department warned these figures are “indicative” only and the full value of the contracts depends on “occupancy and actual usage”.

The Eviston Hotel has secured a contract worth €5,727,590.00, the Innisfallen Hotel in Fossa for €2,404,620.00 and The Hotel Killarney signed a deal worth €1,701,000.00. These are the three biggest contracts published in the documentation.

This is only the tip of the iceberg, and Department officials say more contracts could come on stream. Figures seen by the Killarney Advertiser only cover contracted premises up to the

end of September this year and updated figures are only released every three months.

“We are in contract with far more, but the formal exchange of contracts can take place sometime after the service commences,” a department spokesperson told the Killarney Advertiser.

“The values of the contracts shown are estimates; the actual value materialises upon occupancy and actual usage. Standard contracts have no-fault break clauses available to both parties so again, the figures are indicative rather than actual.”

These figures only cover Ukrainian refugees fleeing the war and do not include International Protection Applicants.

New nursing home to be built on grounds of St Finan’s Hospital

| By Sean Moriarty

Construction will begin on a new 130-bed nursing home in Killarney before the Christmas break.

In what is a double boost for Killarney, the new Community Nursing Unit will be built on the grounds St Finan’s Hospital and while the new build is not an overall solution to the site that is vacant since 2012, it is a step in the right direction.

The Killarney project is one of seven announced this week by the Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly TD and the Minister for Mental Health and Older Persons, Mary Butler TD. They have announced that the seven Community Nursing Units will be built to HIQA standards and will be delivered as a Public Private Partnership.

The Killarney unit will be made up of a number of 25-bed households including single and twin bedrooms en-suite.

Three 10-bed dementia specific rooms are included in the Killarney project.

In addition, shared areas and therapy spaces are included with facilities such as a family overnight stay room, clinical treatment rooms, physiotherapy and occupational therapy rooms and hairdressers’ rooms.

“This is an exciting, state-of-the-art development for older people and their families. It represents a significant part of the HIQA programme, and the mix of long and short-term beds will enable a person-centred approach to support older people’s quality of life,” said Minister Donnelly.

Who’ll get ‘The Bono Bit’?

| By Michelle Crean

They’ve spent the week bribing, sweet talking and pleading - but it still remains to be seen who’ll get ‘The Bono Bit’ in a school charity song.

Not only is it the staff of St Oliver’s National School who are fighting over a prestigious musical part in Band Aid’s ‘Do They Know It’s Christmas Time’but Oscar nominated actor Michael Fassbender and Best Irish Male Singer Paddy Casey - are all in it to win it too.

Everyone wants to be the star but only one can have the part - and all will be revealed today (Friday) when part two of a comedy sketch is released by St Oliver’s on their YouTube channel.

Teacher Noel O’Sullivan, who is an accomplished musician, teamed up with Principal Colm Ó’Suilleabháin, and Oisín O’Connor, son of well known local musician Liam. They made a comedy sketch to raise awareness about the charity song and so far it has almost 2,500 views in just three days online.

Teacher Noel O’Sullivan and SNA Elaine Price pictured holding auditions in St Oliver’s as everyone wanted ‘The Bono Bit’.

SITE: The nursing home will be built to the rear of the old St Finan’s Hospital: Photo: Grigoriy Geniyevskiy

Wander Wild Festival springs into March

A unique adventure and wellness festival has doubled in scale with exciting new additions this year.

Set in the lakes and mountains of Killarney National Park the Wander Wild Festival, which takes place from March 24 to 26, will have a host of outdoor events for the body, mind and soul. This year's programme includes taking a dip in a natural lake ice-bath, immersing in a 3D sensory tour of the Blue Pool Nature Reserve, a gourmet food trail, and an expanded children’s activity camp.

Thrill seekers can scale Carrauntoohil, test their endurance on a trail run through the Gap of Dunloe, enjoy a night trail run on the Old Kenmare Road, rise to new heights with rock climbing and abseiling, or join an outdoor classroom and learn how to move off the beaten track with a Steep Ground Masterclass. The festival offers something for all

outdoor lovers, ages, and abilities, with a myriad of unique experiences for those who seek out the rare or unusual.

Paddle back in time on a Kayak Tour to Innisfallen Island - home to a monastery dating back to 640 AD, or start the day with a sunrise dip at Dundag, float in nature with an enchanting forest bath, discover the power of breath with a Wim Hof Method Workshop, or savour a warm recovery with a Samhradh Sauna Experience.

You can also nourish your inner self with a range of culinary and cultural experiences unique to the area.

For those who want to explore the National Park with the benefit of local knowledge, there are guided hikes, night walks, and pony treks, urban orienteering, photo exhibitions, and

self-guided loop walks for families. Wellness enthusiasts can experience Yoga & Light Therapy, Reiki, Yoga, Sunrise Vinyasa, workshops on Handstands, Yin Yoga, and a Strength and Conditioning for Hiking for over 55s.

One of the best things about the festival is that you can experience complete remoteness by day, and a town buzzing with entertainment at night! A spectacular opening Spring Equinox parade will take place through the streets to celebrate the end of winter and the rebirth of spring, and there will be a Beat Party Workout and Dance Party, and live music and entertainment in local bars over the weekend.

“This is a fantastic chance to explore the stunning Killarney National Park, its lakes and its mountains, in a unique way," Pat Chawke, Chairperson of Wander Wild Festival, said.

"From solo travellers to families and groups of friends, from ardent adven-

turers to those who just love the great outdoors, we have something for everyone, whether that’s wilderness, wellness or wanderlust! There are also great deals over the weekend as the festival kick starts our tourism season, so it’s a great time to explore and enjoy everything that Killarney town and the National Park has to offer.”

There’s a plentiful and diverse range of accommodation options in Killarney with something for every budget, from hostels and self-catering to fourand five-star hotels. Shuttle buses will transfer people from the town centre to all the activities making the connection from vibrant Killarney to the majestic wilderness of the surrounding natural landscape, quick and convenient!

Many events are free, and some are ticketed, see wanderwildfestival.com, follow WanderWildFestival on Instagram and Facebook or email info@ wanderwildfestival.com.

Celtic organise World Cup blitz

| By Michelle Crean

Young soccer players took inspiration from the recent World Cup games and brought that excitement to the pitch on Friday last.

Killarney Celtic organised a mixed blitz for U10s, U11s, and U12 players made up of youngsters from all around the county. They also had a bake sale with the €1,000 raised going towards taking their U11 team to an international youth football tournament in Barcelona this Easter.

"They travelled from Tralee Dynamos, Killorglin, Ballyhar, QPR, MEK, Mastergeeha and Killarney Athletic. There was a total of 91 kids who played on the day who made up eight teams," Mikey Lyne from the club said.

"It was a World Cup themed blitz with

kids playing as Brazil, Argentina, France and more top countries. England beat France in one final and Croatia beat Denmark in the other final. A great day was had by all."

He added a big thanks to the organisers and parents for helping out.

"We got very lucky with the weather, there wasn't a drop of rain."

Celtic members have organised a fundraising draw to help pay for the upcoming trip. Prizes include match tickets for the UEFA 2024 qualifier Ireland V France as the 1st prize, and there's also a one night stay in the 4 star Herbert Park Hotel up for grabs. The draw was to take place on Monday of this week but due to 10 more prizes being added it's now extended by a month. Tickets are €5 each or three for €10.

WELLNESS FESTIVAL: Nicole O’Brien (right), Claire Tangney and Donal O’Donoghue, and their faithful companions - Bob and Marley, on board the traditional ‘Killarney Gap of Dunloe Boats’ launching this year’s Wander Wild Festival. Photo: Valerie O’Sullivan

BLITZ: Children from across Kerry enjoyed a World Cup blitz at Killarney Celtic on Friday.

REVIEW

In October, the St Paul’s women’s team played their first game of the 2022/23 season – 10 years on from their last fixture at this level

Word around town was that St Paul’s had assembled a squad capable of challenging for silverware but no one predicted a 40-point victory away from home in their very first game of the season. Paul’s are back in the big leagues after a 10-year absence and last weekend’s facile win in Kilkenny

St Paul’s women make longawaited National League return

against the Marble City Hawks was eye-catching to say the least. American Yuleska Ramirez Tejeda and Canadian Sofia Paska finished with 35 and 23 points respectively for the Killarney outfit as they ran out 82-42 winners. Kerry footballer Lorraine Scanlon chipped in with 11 while vet-

eran Lynn Jones added 9. With accomplished coach James ‘Boo Boo’ Fleming at the helm, the team are clearly aiming high. They have signed a number of players who previously lined out with St Mary’sthe Castleisland club withdrew from the Super League last season.

SQUAD: The St Paul's team who defeated Marble City Hawks 82-42 in the first game of the 2022/23 season.

Speaking to the Killarney Advertiser this week local player Rheanne O’Shea said the team’s primary goal is promotion to the top table.

“With the calibre of players we have, winning the league out and getting promoted to the Super League is top of our list of priorities.”

New Legion officer Joanne wants safe space for all

In November, the Killarney Legion unveiled Joanne O’Riordan as the club’s new Diversity and Inclusion Officer

The Killarney Legion’s new Diversity and Inclusion Officer Joanne O’Riordan has set her sights on creating a safe space for everyone who wants to join the club, including wheelchair users, asylum seekers and members of the LGBT community.

O’Riordan, a 26-year-old journalist from County Cork, is a wheelchair user herself and is widely know in Irish sporting circles for her work as an inclusivity advocate. As well as writing for the Irish Times, she also presents A Sporting Chance, an RTÉ documentary exploring women’s sport in Ireland. She was given a lifetime membership of the Legion in 2014 after a chance meeting with club legend and Radio Kerry broadcaster Weeshie Fogarty.

Speaking to the Killarney Advertiser this week, O’Riordan said she is “de-

lighted” to be taking up this new position with her adoptive club.

“For me, what it’s about is trying to get more people involved in Legion GAA, and it’s not just people in wheelchairs,” she revealed. “It’s about creating a safe space for LGBT players, refugees, asylum seekers, a whole spectrum of people.

“We’re very fortunate [in the media] that we get to meet an incredible amount of people who do incredible work every day, so I don’t have to reinvent the wheel. I just have to reach out to these people and hope that they can share their expertise and their experiences. Maybe I can rob some of their ideas!”

Although O’Riordan believes that progress has been made in recent years when it comes to inclusivity in the GAA,

she still feels there is room for improvement.

“I think the GAA are trying but where they fall down is they literally have one person for this entire job on a national level. That’s very hard for one person to do. I think we fall down there in that regard.

“These messages like ‘give respect, get respect’ and ‘say no to racism’ get lost. They’re all just taglines that have no real back-up.

“My niece plays U12 with our local club, Dromtariffe, and she doesn’t see any differences [in people]. It’s actually when she goes outside the pitch and she listens to adults talking, she learns

that differences do exist and she starts picking up casual remarks. I think that’s really unfortunate.

“It’s about tackling people’s perceptions really, and that’s a very hard thing to do. When you go to a GAA match you don’t expect to hear a racist or homophobic comment on the sideline… It’s really hard to tell someone that they have an unconscious bias because people don’t like to hear it. They like to believe that they think everybody is equal. It’s about raising awareness from that perspective.

“I think having a safe space to call it out is important too.”

CLUBMATES: James O'Donoghue with Joanne O'Riordan at Legion GAA grounds in Derreen. Photo: Diarmuid Greene/Sportsfile.

Introducing Sarah Leahy, Kerry’s fastest ever woman

In March, Adam Moynihan had the honour of informing Sarah Leahy that she is officially Kerry’s fastest ever woman

Solo athletes aren’t always noted for their humility, at least not outwardly. Operating as an individual requires a lot of self-belief. When you only have yourself to depend on, you need to have absolute faith in your abilities at all times.

While those involved in team sports tend to deflect praise and extol the talents of their colleagues, solo sportspeople project a type of confidence that can sometimes border on arrogance. We often hear pro boxers, golfers, and track and field stars banging on about how great they are (the best, even), conveniently ignoring any statistics or rankings that might suggest otherwise.

Tom Doherty samples success on disabled golf tour

Former town mayor Tom Doherty says awareness around disabilities is “springing forward” as sporting bodies, businesses and communities strive to become more inclusive. Doherty, who suffered a spinal injury when he was 15 and now walks with the assistance of a cane, is witnessing this trend first-hand as a member of Ireland’s blossoming disabled golf scene.

The Killarney native recently took part in the Disabled and Inclusive Golf Association of Ireland outing at Slieve Russell Golf Club in Cavan before flying out to England for a European Disability Golf Association tour event at Stoneleigh Deer Park Golf Club. Doherty claimed first place in the stableford category at the Royal Leamington venue.

larney Advertiser. “They’re putting a lot of time into it.

“Clubs are opening up and people are getting more educated about disabilities and access. If you can help someone to overcome whatever barriers they have, golf is open to everyone.”

Golfers with visual impairment, cerebral palsy, spinal injuries and those who are amputees all compete on the Irish circuit.

“There’s specialised equipment out there,” Doherty explains. “A person who is a full-time wheelchair user can get a specially designed ‘Paragolfer’ machine that is fully adaptable, and that can carry them around specifically on a golf course. It will raise the golfer, according to the level of their disability, to take their shot, and away they go.

there supporting me, and it’s kind of a big deal. But I feel like I’m just there to run and enjoy it.”

She certainly enjoyed her most recent outing, the National Indoor Championships in Abbottstown. Having taken silver in the 200m on Saturday, she capped a fine weekend for local athletics by securing bronze in the 60m on Sunday.

Her coaches say they are impressed with her progress but not one bit surprised. She had been singled out as a major prospect as a teenager. Now that she is “all in” on her chosen disciplines, they are confident that she can take it to the next level and compete internationally.

He is now looking forward to the inaugural Irish Open for golfers with a disability, which will take place in Roganstown Country Club in Dublin at the beginning of July.

“Golf Ireland are doing a lot of work behind the scenes for inclusivity, which is great,” Doherty told the Kil-

SPORT

GOLFER: Killarney man Tom Doherty was victorious at the European Disability Golf Association tour event in England.

“There are special rules for golfers with certain disabilities – for example if a bunker is a certain size and their buggy is too big for it, they’ll get a drop. Still under penalty. A bad shot is still a bad shot!”

But how about an athlete who’s the best without even knowing it?

This week I had the honour of inadvertently informing Sarah Leahy that she is the fastest Kerry woman of all time. Yes, you read that right. The 22-year-old Killarney sprinter was caught off guard when I asked her how it felt to be the county’s fastest ever woman. Speaking via phone from a quiet corner of UL’s Glucksman Library, Leahy sounded genuinely surprised when I clarified that her Killarney Valley AC clubmate Jerry Griffin had provided the information. “Oh… I hope he did the research on that, because I didn’t!

“I sometimes forget about things like that. I know I’m there for the club and I have my family and other people

For Leahy’s part, she feels as though is she is “slowly but surely” finding her feet at the highest level of Irish athletics. Not so long ago she was the new girl. Now she’s starting to feel like she belongs.

“It used to be a lot more intimidating but now a lot of the girls talk to me.

I’m kind of getting to know more people and they’re all very nice, and very chatty. Some people tend to be very focused all day but I feel like I do better when I’m having a laugh and making friends.

“I was a bit starstruck when I saw Phil Healy. I haven’t got the courage to talk to her yet! But in general I’ve learned to deal with it more. I just enjoy it, put on a smile and chat away.”

In May, Tom Doherty spoke to Adam Moynihan about the importance of visibility when it comes to disabled people embracing sport

SPRINTER: Sarah Leahy at the Killarney Valley AC Arena.

Brian Clarke: A Kerry career less ordinary

Sitting in his living room, 25 years on from his best run in green and gold, does Clarke have any regrets when he reflects upon his Kerry career?

“No, I think I walked away at the right time for me,” he insists. “You can’t keep everyone else happy when you’re disappointed and annoyed about things yourself. I felt it was the best thing for me to do. There was no such thing as a retirement back then. I was surplus to requirements, and I felt that way. I didn’t want to rot on the bench. “Overall, having started with the seniors in ’93 and having played minors and U21s as well, I have a lot to be proud of really.”

Clarke continued to play basketball with Paul’s and club football for the Crokes, although it wasn’t all smooth sailing with the latter.

“I’m a controversial character,” he declares, with more than a hint of humour in his voice. “There was a small falling out within the club in 2000, so I decided it was best to stay away from the team. It was great for Crokes to win the County Championship that year but I wasn’t involved towards the end of the season. I played again in 2001 and then I moved from senior to junior for seven or eight years. I enjoyed playing at that

level at that point because I was still keeping in touch with the game and still keeping in touch with the club, but it was on a more leisurely basis. Which suits me.”

Nowadays he gets his sporting fix at the picturesque Killarney Golf and Fishing Club. “I love the golf. There are good characters back there and a great club spirit. The golf to me is an extension of being competitive. That’s what I miss most of all.”

Does that competitiveness sometimes spill over on the course in the same way it did on the football field?

“Moreso when I was starting out. I suppose I realise at this point that I’m not going to make any money out of it!

When I started out, an odd club went flying left or right. But now I’m much more settled and I can appreciate that I will hit the occasional good shot, rather than expecting every shot to be good.”

Whether he’s talking about the good or the bad, his achievements, his talents or his moments of indiscipline, Clarke seems quite happy to accept that it’s all part of what makes him.

As he says himself, “that’s just who I am”.

You get the impression that he wouldn’t have it any other way.

‘And Barrett’s given herself a chance here…’

In October, Amber Barrett’s wonderful goal sent the Ireland women’s team to the World Cup for the very first time

As a footballing people, our happiest memories together have almost exclusively been narrated by RTÉ’s Belfast-born commentator George Hamilton.

From a nation holding its breath in Genoa to Ray Houghton doing the job for Jack in Giants Stadium, from getting no more than Ireland deserved in Kashima to Robbie Brady bringing us all to our feet in Lille. Hamilton has always been there, first to savour the moment and then to convert the pictures into words, at manic junctures when the best the rest of us can muster is a guttural, drawn-out ‘yes’. Thankfully, and fittingly, Hamilton

was on the mic in Glasgow on Tuesday night to once again lend his voice to another iconic moment in Irish football history.

“Fahey standing firm. Now it’s O’Sullivan. And there’s the run of Barrett… And Barrett’s given herself a chance here… Amber Barrett in on goal… Amber Barrett makes the breakthrough!

“That was sheer brilliance from Amber Barrett. The first touch to take her clear was absolutely terrific. And Amber Barrett kneels in celebration in honour of the Donegal folk who passed away in the disaster in Creeslough. What a moment for the Donegal girl.”

I’m not sure if anything I’ve ever writ-

ten in these pages has brought a tear to someone’s eye; that transcription is probably as close as I’ll get.

The goal itself was superb. Niamh Fahey’s cushioned header scuppered a Scotland attack and regained possession for the Irish. Denise O’Sullivan’s turn and pass lit the fuse. Barrett’s first touch with her left was like something out of a video game. Inch perfect in its execution, it rapidly propelled the Potsdam striker from a threatening position into a deadly one. Amber Alert to Red Alert in an instant.

The second touch with the right improved the angle and settled things down. And then the finish… The finish was world class. An impudent toe poke that left the unsuspecting keeper flat-footed, a flash of brilliance that could easily grace any of Ronaldinho’s highlight reels.

From beginning to end, the move was perfect. Unstoppable. Unbelievable. Unforgettable.

GREEN AND GOLD: Brian Clarke celebrates a Kerry score during the All-Ireland semi-final victory over Cavan in 1997.

Photo: Matt Browne/ Sportsfile.

MOMENT OF MAGIC: Amber Barrett pokes home the winning goal in Ireland's World Cup playoff against Scotland. Photo: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile.

In March, Adam Moynihan met Brian Clarke to discuss the highs and lows of his Kerry career.

Brilliant Kerry book spot in All-Ireland final

They were considered rank outsiders at the start of the season but the Kerry ladies are now just 60 minutes away from All-Ireland glory for the first time since 1993.

The Kingdom dominated Saturday’s semi-final against Mayo as first-half goals by Síofra O’Shea (two) and Aishling O’Connell sent them on their way.

Darragh Long and Declan Quill’s side led by seven points at the break (3-6 to 0-8) and an assured second-half performance eventually saw them run out nine-point winners.

Paris McCarthy’s

minute goal and five points from the irrepressible Louise Ní Mhuircheartaigh were significant, but overall it was a strong team display from start to finish. With Ciara Butler commanding in goal, Laoch na hImeartha Kayleigh Cronin and Emma Costello strong at the back, and Cáit Lynch and Niamh Carmody pulling the strings offensively, the girls in gold were certainly good value for their 4-10 to 0-13 win. Defending champions Meath await in the final, which takes place on July 31.

Dan Favier gave a lifetime of service

Dan will be mourned, not just at the Fitzgerald Stadium but at venues throughout East Kerry and further afield.

The sun wasn’t shining too often yet Dan and volunteers of his ilk were prepared to put up with the vicissitudes of the Kerry climate. Imagine standing at pokey turnstiles at the Fitzgerald Stadium, not just for one hour but anything up to three hours in the draftiest of places as the heavy rains and bitterly cold November winds whipped through the gap. How do they keep warm? How did they put up with the elements at venues where there was no shelter whatsoever? Dan Favier never shunned the less attractive venues in the county, where

he was exposed to the elements yet was as patient and as diligent as ever in collecting the cash. That money will keep the East Kerry Board alive and well-positioned to run off its competitions so efficiently in all grades

So the message is simple: be grateful for the volunteers, who make it all possible for supporters to enjoy the games. Too often are these unpaid officials undervalued.

Dan was one such volunteer, who gave a lifetime of service in his own unassuming way. We can be assured that when he reached the gates, there was no need for identification or scanning the entry ticket.

Tar isteach Dan. Tá fáilte romhat. Go gcúitítear do shaothar leat ar Neamh.

In November, Eamonn Fitzgerald paid tribute to a gentle Glenflesk man who manned the turnstiles with courtesy and patience

PRIDE: Kerry player Danielle O'Leary hugs her father Dan after the final whistle. Photo: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile.

43rd

SERVANT: The late Dan Favier with East Kerry Board chairman Johnny Borsnan. Photo: Séamus Healy.

In July, the Kerry ladies defied to odds to reach their first All-Ireland final since 1993

A new dawn: Kerry FC confirm LOI status

Tralee man Billy Dennehy has been officially unveiled as the first ever manager of Kerry FC.

Dennehy had previously been in charge of the Kerry U19s and he was initially listed as the fledgling club’s Director of Football, but his League of Ireland experience as a player makes him an obvious candidate for the senior management role. It is expected that a number of players from this year’s U19 team will graduate alongside their manager to the newly assembled Kerry senior squad.

After his appointment was made public on Monday morning, the former Sunderland, Shamrock Rovers and Cork City footballer wasted no time in announcing his first two signings. Ex-Killarney Celtic and Treaty United midfielder Matt Keane and Seán McGrath – the ex-Park player who lined out for Cobh Ramblers in 2021 and 2022 – were presented to the media on Monday evening.

Killarney Advertiser readers may recall that Keane gave an interview in these

pages earlier this year in which he said Kerry needed a League of Ireland team and that he hoped it would happen “sooner rather than later”. This was several months before Kerry FC announced that they were applying for a licence. Now, the Killarney man has got his wish.

“I am over the moon to sign for Kerry FC and to be able to play First Division football at home is something I have

dreamed about for a long time,” Keane said. “I have been following the project very closely and when I got the call from Billy, it really was a no-brainer.”

Keane revealed that it took Dennehy “about 30 seconds” to convince him to sign.

“It’s a proud moment. Wearing the Kerry jersey in any code is a great honour. Every week you’re going out and you’re representing your family and

your friends and the people of Kerry. “I’m living in Killarney and working in Tralee so it all makes sense to come home.”

For his part, Dennehy said he was “delighted” to welcome Keane and McGrath on board.

“I couldn’t have asked for two nicer players to announce as my first signings as manager of Kerry FC. These are two players who are from the area and who carry valuable experience at this level. To have their signatures secured for the upcoming season is a huge boost to everyone at Kerry FC. Time now for the hard work to begin.”

Kerry’s debut campaign will get up and running with a home game against Cobh Ramblers on February 17. Works are ongoing at Mounthawk Park before the big kick-off. New seats have arrived for the Main Stand and are expected to be in place before the New Year. The club say that season ticket sales to date have been “strong”, despite shipping initial criticism over their pricing strategy.

BOSS: Billy Dennehy became Kerry FC's first ever manager in December.

Kerry down dubs thanks to ‘unkickable’ Seánie Shea free

In July, Kerry forward Seánie O’Shea scored one of the all-time great points to end Kerry’s dismal run against Dublin. The Kingdom would go on to win their first All-Ireland since 2014.

Speaking to the media after the game, Jack O’Connor admitted that he didn’t think it was kickable.

77 minutes on the clock. Draw game. 54 metres out.

A place in the All-Ireland final on the line. Deafening noise from Hill 16. A stiff wind coming the wrong way. A decade of Dublin dominance hang-

ing in the air.

Seán O’Shea, who had fluffed a penalty in the first half, stands upright, draws one last deliberate intake of breath, strides, and strikes.

It wasn’t kickable. Until it was.

O’Shea’s point – the final, killer blow in what was an absorbing slugfest – will surely go down as one of the

greatest acts of individual brilliance in the history of Kerry football.

Joyous scenes followed the final whistle as Kerry booked a spot in the All-Ireland final, where they will face Galway. That’s two weeks down the road. For now, players, management and supporters can bask in one of the county’s most famous wins.

away Home

INSPIRED BY DANNY CASEY

Kerry connections to New York hurling

Hurling history is being made this month as a New York team contests the Connacht Hurling league for the first time.

The week-long competition got underway on Monday and could pave the way for New York’s inclusion in the All-Ireland championship for the Lory Meagher Cup for third tier teams.

And as with all things Irish in the Big Apple, there is a huge Kerry connection to the New York hurling team.

The county board is led by chairperson Joan Henchy from Tarbert. Selectors and coaches include Eamon Fitzgerald from Causeway and Tralee

man Sean Kelly.

New York’s manager is Ballyheigue’s Richie Hartnett. He played underage hurling for the Kingdom before he moved to New York 14 years ago where he has since been a central part of the local GAA scene.

Hartnett’s squad have already beaten Longford in the league and by the time this week’s edition of the Killarney Advertiser is in the shops they will have met a Galway development side too. Other teams include Leitrim, Mayo, Roscommon and Sligo.

"The Lory Meagher is the competition we want to get into," Hartnett told RTÉ Sport.

"They had mentioned that the Connacht League would be a great way to dip our toes back into the action in Ireland. We jumped at the chance. There have been an awful lot of guys pushing for New York to be involved in these competitions. We're entering this [league] to compete not to take part and we hope this will get us into the Lory Meagher competition." New York’s last hurling championship game at senior level came back in 2006 when they participated in the Ulster Championship.

They beat Derry in an opening match in The Bronx. However, further participation was not possible at time due to visa issues.

80 years of wedded bliss!

Imagine being married for 80 years - well that's what one American couple celebrated last week.

Robert and Edith Mae Schaum from Pennsylvania - celebrated the very rare milestone on December 26.

The couple first met in high school in 1936 and their first date was to a football game. They got married in 1942.

Both are now 102-years-old and, believe it or not, have not made it into the Guinness Book of Records yet. While they are one of the oldest couples married - there is still a record to break as North Carolina couple, Zelmyra and Herbert Fisher, were married for 86 years and 290 days until Herbert died in 2011 aged 105 years.

Robert and Edith from Lancaster County said their secret to a staggering eight decades of wedded bliss is that they "hold each other up”.

“I guess the secret would be don’t go to bed mad,” Robert said.

Reminiscing about their first date Edith said that “his dad took us".

“I thought, ‘Oh my, that’s the girl',” Robert added.

Dan Tim’s first CD launched in London and Killorglin

London-based South Kerry businessman Dan Tim O’Sullivan launched

cie Sheahan's Pub in Killorglin on St Stephen’s Day.

'Memories of Ireland' is a collection of songs the Kells Bay man likes to sing at functions in London or on trips home to Kerry.

Proceeds from the sale will be donated to Edel O'Sullivan 'Edel's Road to Recovery' GoFundMe, which is raising money to help the Valentia woman who is recovering from a serious type of brain tumour.

She was lucky to find accommodation in a specialist London rehabilitation clinic before Christmas.

The CD was produced with help from well-known balladeer PJ Murrihy and London-based Killarney pianist Jack Patrick Healy.

Murrihy also performs on the CD. He sings a song called ‘Kerry Man of The Year’ in recognition of Dan Tim being named the Kerry Association London Person of the Year in 2004.

A London launch took place in Kilburn in early December.

his first music CD at Fran-

BIG APPLE: New York has fielded a football team in the Connacht championship for years, now they are set to be joined by a hurling team.

LAUNCH: Members of the Kerry Association London at Dan Tim’s CD launch in London.

Deaths of three world icons

Three icons, who transcended their respective fields, passed away over the last week.

Pele, the greatest footballer of all time, was the only player ever to win the FIFA World Cup three times, the first in 1958 when he was just 17-years-old. He died on Thursday last aged 82 after a long illness.

On Saturday, Pope Benedict XVI, the only Pope in living memory to retire, died after suffering from an illness.

Pope Benedict XVI served as head of the Catholic Church between April 2005 until he resigned in February 2013.

At the time of his resignation he was 85 years and 318 days old and the fourth oldest person to hold the Papal office.

The New Year was barely two days old when news that YouTube sensation and rally driver Ken Block was killed in a snowmobile accident in Utah.

Block was best known for his ‘Hoonigan’ series of car videos but was also the co-founder of cult brand DC Shoes.

Ken Block

Hints that Joe Biden will visit Ireland in 2023

Claire Cronin, the US ambassador to Ireland, has given the strongest hint yet that Joe Biden will visit Ireland some time in 2023.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement and the current US president is a huge supporter of the peace treaty.

Biden can trace his family history to counties Louth and Mayo and has, since his election last year, said many times

that he would like to visit Ireland.

Outgoing Taoiseach Micheál Martin has already issued an invite but nothing official has been announced yet.

“I have no doubt that President Biden will be coming to Ireland at some point in 2023," Ambassador Cronin said in a recent radio interview.

"I don’t know when, but he has expressed a strong desire to do so, but I have no clue when that might be.”

Kerry Dark Sky Reserve named top stargazing destination

While astronomy has been around since ancient times, gazing up to the sky for a little bit of solace or escapism from our busy lives has continued to rise in popularity.

Astro tourism sees travellers venturing to breath-taking off-the-grid destinations to experience the unparalleled beauty of our galaxy.

So, whether you’re an amateur astronomer or a cosmic expert, the travel experts at Scott Dunnhave rounded up the best European destinations for unforgettable astral adventures this winter.

1. BRANDENBURG, GERMANY –Westhavelland

Westhavelland Nature Park, in Brandenburg, is about two hours' drive from Germany’s capital city, Berlin. The spot is a dark sky region, a protected area, officially recognised for its low levels of pollution. The best time to go is in early spring and late autumn, especially the days before and after each new Moon, as that’s when the sky is darkest and it can help see the stars clearly.

2. NORTHUMBERLAND, UK –Kielder Forest Park

Another region awarded Dark Sky status by the Dark Sky Association, Kielder Forest Park is the largest Dark Sky Park in the whole of the UK and the second largest in Europe. The best time to go is in autumn and winter when the skies are darker for longer and you are more than likely to see an array of stars, the Milky Way, and the Andromeda Galaxy. It is easy to get to by public transport with strong rail links to connecting bigger cities as well as by car.

3. COUNTY KERRY, IRELAND –Kerry International Dark Sky Reserve

The Kerry Dark Sky Reserve is one of only three Gold Tier Reserves in the world. This is the highest tier that can be awarded by the International Dark-Sky Association. Kerry Airport is the best place for visitors to fly into and car hire facilities are easily accessible. The best time to arrange a visit is around the time of meteor showers and when the moonlight is least likely to affect your view, as with the other reserves.

4. EAST OF REYKJAVIK, ICELAND –Thingvellir National Park

One of the most famous tourist destinations in Iceland, Thingvellir National Park gets extremely dark at night, making it a popular spot to see the Northern Lights. Tourists will want to fly into Reykjavik Keflavik airport. It takes about an hour from there whether you take the bus and taxi or drive yourself. September to March is the best time to see the northern lights and stargazing due to the long nights.

5. LA PALMA, SPAINMirador Llano del Jable

La Palma is one of the Spanish Canary Islands and Mirador Llano del Jable is said to be one of the best places in the world to see the Milky Way. With streetlights specifically designed to avoid light pollution and the island being protected by law, La Palma is recognised as a starlight reserve due to the quality of its skies and is extremely well-placed for stargazing. January is the ideal time to go just after nightfall. Easily accessible by car, Mirador Llano del Jable is favoured by tourists from all over the world.

Pele

Pope Benedict XVI

Conference to mark centenary of Civil War

A three-day conference in February will mark the centenary of the Civil War and will bring together a wide range of local, national and international experts, historians and academics to discuss the conflict and its legacy.

The conference will be held at the Siamsa Tíre Theatre from February 23 to 25. It will form part of the State’s Decade of Centenaries Programme for 2023 and is supported by Kerry County Council and the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht Sport and Media.

Involving expert speakers and academics from a broad spectrum of relevant disciplines, the centenary conference will present the events of 1922-1923 to a wide audience, with a particular focus on Kerry where the conflict was extremely visceral, violent and protracted.

The History, Memory and Legacy conference is presented by a team of experienced historians and event organisers including Dr Mary McAuliffe, Bridget McAuliffe and Owen O’Shea.

It will analyse, debate and embrace the complexities, contradictions and nuances of this extremely turbulent, divisive and traumatic period, both in the local context of war in Kerry and in the broader context of Irish Civil War history.

“The objective of the conference is to set what occurred in Kerry in wider national and international contexts through the presentation of new research, archival testimonies and the accounts of combatants, as well as civilians, so that, a century later, the Irish Civil War can be considered and understood afresh,” Dr McAuliffe said.

“As part of the conclusion to the Decade

of Centenaries, 2012-2023, the conference will also consider the impact of commemoration on history, memory and politics over the last decade,” she added.

Keynote speakers will include Professor Diarmaid Ferriter of UCD, Professor Bill Kissane of the London School of Economics and Dr Leeann Lane of Dublin City University. Papers will be presented by a wide range of Kerry historians including Dr Richard McElligott, Dr Helene O’Keeffe, Dr Dáithí Ó Corráin, Helen O’Carroll, Owen O’Shea and Kieran McNulty. A roundtable discussion on the legacy of the Civil War in Kerry and beyond will be chaired by Dr David McCullagh and will feature a wide range of experienced historians and authors.

The conference, which is supported by Kerry County Council, will be a key event under the Community Strand of the State’s 2023 Decade of Centenaries Programme. It is presented in association with University College Dublin Gender Studies and the Department of Computing, Creative Media and Information Technology at the Munster Technological University, Kerry.

The event will feature a project presented by students at MTU Kerry. 'Is Mise, Le Meas' focuses on creating a set of inspiring visual responses to Civil War narratives, drawing on original documentation and poignant letters sent and received during this tumultuous and formative period in Irish history.

Other ancillary events, including a concert of song, poetry and letters from the period, are also being organised and the details will be announced shortly.

For more information, see www.kerrycivilwarconference.ie.

Fossa children go on a magical adventure

Their teacher Fiona Hallissey organised an Elf Hunt in the woods before Christmas.

Ellie the elf had been watching the children and awarding stars for good behaviour. She took a photo of each child and she was on her way to Santa to give him her report when she went missing up the woods.

The children set off on a hunt to find Ellie and on the way they met a few characters - Wonder Woman, Big Bird, a Garda, a

dinosaur, a story book queen, Cinderella, Batman and Mrs Claus - who couldn’t stop baking cookies and offered the children some! They had all met Ellie on her travels and helped the children to follow her trail. Eventually they arrived at Killarney Hostel and who should they find but a very apologetic Ellie. She opened the door of the hostel and Santa appeared. What a day! Everyone enjoyed hot chocolate and a selection box.

CIVIL WAR: Organisers of the forthcoming conference to mark the centenary of the Civil War in Kerry include Bridget McAuliffe, Owen O’Shea and Mary McAuliffe.

Classic club donates over €60k to local causes

Killarney Valley Classic and Vintage Club handed out a total of €61,750 to four worthy causes just before the Christmas break.

Club members raised the money after they restored and raffled a 40-year-old Toyota Starlet.

Each charity or community group got an equal share of the profits. They were the Kerry branch of the Irish Kidney Association, Killarney Valley Athletic Club, Recovery Haven, and Cuan Mhuire. “We are so proud of our club and our members for what they have done with

this project and the much-needed funds they helped raise for local charities,” club secretary, Richard O’Donoghue, said.

The car was won by Mary Terry of Fossa and on the same evening, her daughter Mave Swarbrick and her two grandsons Finian and Keelan were presented with the keys of their newly acquired classic car.

The local motoring club remained active over the holiday period and its eighth annual car meet and walk on December 28 raised funds for the local branch of the Order of Malta First Aid service.

WINNER: Mave Swarbrick and her two children Finian and Keelan on behalf of her mother Mary Terry received the keys to the classic Toyota Starlet from Michael Buckley surrounded by Killarney Valley Classic and Vintage Club members who worked on the restoration of the car.

115 Auto Black 19Km €36,900 211 GrandScenic dci 120 Signature Nav 7 Seats Blue/Black 21Km €35,900

211 Audi Q5 35 TDI SE Auto Blue 32km €57,900

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

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

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

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‘Bones’ presented with prestigious rally trophy

The Caherdaniel-based Killarney and District Motor Club member was presented with the Paudie Casey Memorial Trophy which is awarded to the person who has made the biggest contribution to motorsport in the county over the last 12 months.

The winner, as judged by championship organisers after receiving nominations from Kerry Motor Club and Killarney and District Motor Club, is a closely guarded secret until the announcement is made. ‘Bones' as he is affectionately known, has been involved in motorsport for most of his life. He was the second-ever Clerk of the Course for the West Cork Rally over 40 years ago.

In 2022, he volunteered to marshal at over 25 events, often taking on jobs that are well out of the limelight like stage en-

trance or exit marshal and when the long day is over he is one of the last to leave as he stays on to help with a litter pick.

“This is the first awards ceremony I have attended this millennium,” said a clearly surprised ‘Bones’, “But it is an honour and a privilege to accept this trophy.”

World Rally Championship star driver Craig Breen was the guest of honour on the night. He presented many of the awards for both the 2022 championship and the delayed 2021 series.

Other guests included Muckross man Noel O'Sullivan who won the British Rally Championship last year and Aghadoe co-driver Mikie Galvin who was runner-up in the same competition.

Last year’s award winners were: Megan Costello, Kerry Motor Club (Ladies Champion); Jason Farrell Killarney and District

Motor Club (KDMC), (Junior Champion); Fergus O’Meara KDMC (Historic Champion); Bob Moran KDMC / Kevin Doherty KMC (third overall); Alan Ring KDMC / Damian Fleming KDMC (second overall); and champions Darren Young Kerry Motor Club and Ger Conway KDMC. Award winners for the 2021 series included Alan Ring, KDMC and Paul Nagle, KDMC, (Historic Champions); Ray O’Neill, KDMC / Ger Conway, KDMC (third overall); Aidan Buckley, KDMC / Denny Greany, Kerry Motor Club (second overall); and champions Mark Murphy, Kerry Mo-

tor Club and Shane Buckley, KDMC. The Kingdom of Kerry Rally Championship was first run in 2018 and is open to members of both Kerry and Killarney and District Motor Clubs. Since its inception, it has been sponsored by Moriarty’s Centra in Farranfore.

Former proprietor Mike Moriarty retired from the supermarket business in December but will continue to support the championship through his Moriarty’s Central Car Sales operation in the mid-Kerry village.

RECOGNITION: Michael ‘Bones’ O’Connor with the Paudie Casey Memorial Trophy. Photo: Ted O'Connell

AWARDS: Alan Ring who finished second in the County Rally Championship and Craig Breen at the Kingdom of Kerry Rally Championship awards night in Keel last Friday. Photo: Ted O'Connell

Michael ‘Bones’ O’Connor was presented with one of the most prestigious trophies in Kerry rallying at the County Rally Championship awards night in Keel last Friday night.

The chronic undersupply of properties will continue into 2023

Firstly, happy New Year to all our readers, it has been a great privilege for me to contribute here on property related matters every fortnight and I hope that it has proved insightful.

As we begin a new year it is always beneficial to look back before we look forward. The past 12 months in the property market have certainly been eventful. We experienced unprecedented activity post pandemic lockdowns with demand far exceeding supply in all areas. This saw strong prices being achieved in record time frames in the first half of 2022.

The latter half of the year saw dramatic changes in the world economy with the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and rising energy costs, inflation and interest rates. Despite these dramatic events we have not experienced a significant hit to housing demand.

The myhome.ie Q4 Property report, published this week, shows that while asking price inflation may have dropped in Q4, just 3% of homes listed for sale in this period saw asking price reductions

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which demonstrates a resilience in the market. That said, this resilience will be tested in 2023. Current buyers in the market are now stretched to the largest extend in over a decade, with the average residential purchase now running at 7.7 times’ average wage.

The report shows that asking price infla-

room. Private parking. Rent €650/month includes internet & bins. Electricity/Oil not included. Text: 089 400 9226.

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tion has continued to slow, the annual figure is now running at 6% nationally. It is important to note here that while price inflation has slowed, we are not talking about price falls but a slowdown in the level of price increases. The data shows that while there has been some cooling in demand and increased asking price reductions, trading has continued to be resilient with premiums still being paid over and above asking prices. A very interesting feature of the report is that the average time to 'Sale Agreed' in Q4 was 2.7 months nationwide, which is indicative of a very tight housing market.

MORTGAGE APPROVALS

Average mortgage approvals were up 4.3% on the year. We expect 2023 will see a further slowdown in asking price inflation, although the imminent change in the Central Banks lending rules to allow for borrowings of four times income will provide the market with a boost. The continuation of supports such as the First Home and Help To Buy Schemes will also help first time buyers in a market that still requires much more stock.

CLASSIFIEDS

FOR SALE

FOR

ANIMALS

ANIMALS:

While those stock levels are improving gradually on a national basis, they are still not running at levels required to satisfy demand.

On a local level, the Killarney property market has certainly proved resilient. The past 12 months has seen record prices achieved for varying property types, from three bedroom semi-detached houses to four/five bed detached family homes.

The chronic undersupply of properties to the market will continue in 2023 with demand far exceeding supply. The lack of availability of new homes is a cause of concern. Proposed changes to planning legislation may speed up the planning process but build cost inflation and rising interest rates may weigh on activity.

We expect to see continued demand for properties in the Killarney area from a host of purchasers from first time buyers, retirees, right sizing buyers, holiday home buyers and family home purchasers.

At DNG Ted Healy, we are currently looking for properties in the Killarney area to satisfy these house buyers. The end of 2022 saw us successfully close a large number of sales and we now seek stock for our 2023 purchasers.

If you are considering selling your property in 2023, please get in touch. We would be delighted to meet and speak to you to guide you through the process and advise you on how to best maximise the price of your property.

kinds of clear-outs etc. Call 087-2600407.

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AVAILABLE: Childminder available in Glenflesk, Tuesday to Friday in the childminder’s own home. Call 086-8198465.

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WANTED: Local Music Teacher, specialising in piano and/or tin whistle in the Currow/ Castleisland area. Please apply to box no. 3404.

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fiddle,

banjo. Garda vetted. ONLINE OPTION ALSO AVAILABLE. Tel John: 0876801392 or Maggie: 087-6961681.

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WANTED: Childminder for two children, aged 6 and 10 years. Pickups required from St. Oliver’s Primary School, Killarney. Phone 087-6736737.

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

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

TED HEALY | ASCSI ARICSDip AVEA DNG TED HEALY 11 New Street, Killarney, Co Kerry

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

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

2022 was a remarkable year for the Irish Exchequer on the tax receipts front

"Income tax figures for 2022 were robust. Wage inflation trumped what seems to have been relatively modest job losses in the technology sector, leaving income tax receipts buoyant and over 15% ahead of 2021.

Perhaps surprisingly, VAT receipts also remain strong, with full year figures almost 21% ahead of 2021. It’s worth noting however that it will be next month before we see the returns for the crucial Christmas period.

The higher VAT receipts are driven by a combination of factors, including price inflation, higher disposable incomes and a slight dip in savings levels as the year progressed. Looking ahead, it’s likely that higher mortgage interest bills will impact adversely on disposable income and consumer spending, resulting in some pressure on VAT receipts in 2023.

Once again bumper corporation tax receipts are the highlight of the Exchequer figures, despite a small drop in December, with full year returns €7.3bn ahead of 2021. While there will be concern as to our dependence on a very small number of foreign multinational companies for an increasingly significant portion of our overall tax revenues, these figures represent a remarkable turnout for the Exchequer.

Underpinning the strong corporate tax returns are very positive results by large MNCs based here, in both the pharma and technology sectors in particular.

Looking ahead, an increase in our corporate tax rate to 15% (from 2024), together with the expiry of valuable intellectual property allowances, could see our corporate tax take grow further. It’s certainly not a given that we will see a drop in corporate tax revenues. However, corporate tax revenues will be hugely influenced by the global economic environment and the results of certain large MNCs based here, thus uncertainty remains high.

Overall, 2022 was a remarkable year for the Irish Exchequer on the tax receipts front, with record receipts of €83.1bn collected. While the global economic outlook remains uncertain, at this point there should be cautious optimism that we can see these figures maintained in 2023."

Money and time saving tips for the New Year

Happy New Year. A fresh start and a clean slate afford us the opportunity to prepare for the year ahead.

Here are some tips and hints to save you money and time this year on your insurance costs.

• Get your breakdown recovery number now and input it in your phone.

• Diary your insurance renewal dates so you have time to get quotes or if you wish contact a broker (like us!) and we can diary for you and contact you be-

fore your renewal date.

• Ensure your vehicle is taxed and has completed an NCT at least two months before your renewal date as some insurance markets won't quote without confirmation.

• Pay your insurance in one payment if you can. Monthly repayments can add up to 8%

• Your home insurance may have free emergency call out cover. Find out and input the number in your phone.

• Install a monitored intruder alarm in your home. Many insurers will give dis-

counts of up to 15% and you will have added peace of mind.

• Install smoke detectors in your home. Again, a lot of insurers give a discount or quote better rates at renewal with multiple working alarms.

If you are a business owner, review your health and safety statement and update it this January. This document could be vital in a personal injury situation.

If you are shopping around to get quotes, make sure to pick up the phone and discuss your needs with a real person who understands insurance.

John Healy of Healy Insurances.

Peter Vale, Tax Partner at Grant Thornton Ireland.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT & 1ST ANNIVERSARY O’LEARY

In loving memory of Margaret O’Leary

Late of Main Street, Killarney Who passed away in January 2022.

Margaret’s nephew Teddy wishes to thank her many friends, people who sympathised, sent mass cards, phone calls and online condolences. To those who came to the funeral home and attended the funeral mass and burial.

My thanks to the ladies from the Home Help and the Palliative Care Community team. Also, to the nurses and staff of Killarney Community Hospital.

To Fr. Niall Howard and fellow priests, for the celebration of Margaret’s funeral mass and Interment.

Thanks to Mary and Mike O’Shea and staff, whom with their professionalism took care of Margaret.

To the members of the Dr. Croke GAA club for their guard of honour.

Please accept this acknowledgement as a token of sincere gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been offered for your intentions.

Anniversary Mass is on Wednesday 11th January at 6.15pm in St. Mary’s Cathedral, Killarney.

29TH & 6TH ANNIVERSARY MORIARTY

In loving memory of Patrick Moriarty Laccabane, Fossa Who died on 5th January 1994 and Terence Moriarty Who died on 11th January 2017.

If memories bring us closer, We are never far apart, For you are always in our thoughts, And forever in our hearts.

Sadly missed and fondly remembered by all your family.

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

NOVENA TO ST. ANTHONY

O Holy St. Anthony, gentlest of Saints, your love for God and charity for his creatures made you worthy when on earth to possess miraculous powers. Miracles awaited on your word which you were ever ready to speak for those in trouble or anxiety. Encouraged by this thought I implore you to obtain for me my request (request). The answer to my prayer may require a miracle, even though you are the Saint of Miracles, O gentle and loving St. Anthony whose heart was ever full of human sympathy. Whisper my petition into the ear of the sweet infant Jesus who loved to be held in your arms and the gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. Promise publication. M.S.

BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE

O’CONNOR

Birthday remembrance for Our beautiful daughter & sister Amy O’Connor

Late of 8 Whitebridge Manor, Killarney Whose birthday falls on 4th January.

No other time could be as sad or quite as hard to bear as celebrating your birthday without you being there.

You meant the world to everyone and at this time of year your kind and gentle nature was so precious and so dear.

Amy we miss you, every second of every minute, every hour of every day.

We wish you were here to give you a big hug on your 16th birthday xx

Love Mom, Dad & Cian

BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE

O’CONNOR

Birthday remembrance for My beautiful granddaughter Amy O’Connor.

Late of 8 Whitebridge Manor, Killarney Whose birthday falls on 4th January.

No words I write can ever say How much I miss you every day No one knows the grief I bear When the family gather and you’re not there

I laugh, I talk, I play the part But beyond the sorrow is a broken heart The sorrow I feel, I can never explain And the ache in my heart will always remain.

From Nana Winnie x

PRAYER FOR THE EXPECTANT MOTHER

Almighty and everlasting God through the working of the holy spirit you prepared the body and soul of the glorious virgin Mary Mother of God to be a worthy dwelling for your Son. Through the same Holy Spirit you also sanctified St John the Baptist before his birth and now I implore you to hear my humble prayer. Through the intercession of St. Gerard I beg and entreat you to protect her and in motherhood, protect also from the evil spirit the child you have given her so that it may receive baptism by the help of your saving hands. Grant also I beseech you that having lived as good Christians on earth both mother and child may one day be united in the everlasting happiness of Heaven. Amen. T.S.

ST. THERESA

Saint Gerard Mazella

St. Theresa the Little Flower, please pick me a rose from thy heavenly gardens and send it to me with a message of love. Ask God to please grant me the favour I thee implore and tell him I will love him each day more and more. Amen. D.G.

37TH ANNIVERSARY

BARTLETT

In loving memory of Harry Bartlett

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

For someone who meant so much And loved by all he knew Who left behind a trail of tears And precious memories too We loved the sunshine of his smile And kindness in his heart But heaven saw that he was tired This meant we had to part Dear Angels hear our prayer Please guard him with gentle wings And tend to him with care For he was someone wonderful That words cannot convey How much we wish that he was here Once more with us today.

Sadly missed and always remembered by your son David and daughters Helene, Noreen and Majella and his many friends.

15TH ANNIVERSARY

BUCKLEY

In fondest memory of Timmy Buckley

Late of Gortdromakerry, Muckross, Killarney Who left this earth on 10th January 2008.

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 thought

A quiet prayer For a special person in God’s care.

Lovingly remembered and always in our hearts Josie, John & Caroline, John & Karen, Mags & Damien, Trish & Johnny, Tim and grandkids Reece, Oisín, Caolán, Luke, Jack, Ava, Conor, Danny, Darragh, Mia and Kayden.

Anniversary Mass is on Sunday 5th February at 9.30am in Muckross Church.

BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE

SPELLMAN

Birthday remembrance for Conor Spellman

Late of Ballycasheen, Killarney Whose birthday occurs on 7th January.

I woke this morning with a tear in my eye I whispered ‘Happy Biryhday Cons’ And sent you all my love.

Sadly missed, loved forever Shelly, Hollie & Fionn Xxx

2ND ANNIVERSARY DOOLAN (NÉE HANNON)

In loving memory of A Dear Wife

Kathleen Doolan (Nee Hannon) Ballinamanagh, Kilcummin Formerly of the Bronx, New York Who passed away on 11th January 2021.

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

Dearly missed and always remembered by your loving husband Connie x

Kathleen’s 2nd Anniversary Mass will be held on Sunday 8th January at 11.30am in Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Kilcummin.

2ND ANNIVERSARY DOOLAN (NÉE HANNON)

2ND ANNIVERSARY DOOLAN (NÉE HANNON)

In loving memory of a dear mother Kathleen Doolan (née Hannon) Ballinamanagh, Kilcummin Formerly of the Bronx, New York Who passed away on 11th January 2021.

May you see God’s light on the path ahead When the road you walk is dark May you always hear Even in your hour of sorrow The gentle singing of the lark When times are hard may hardness Never turn your heart to stone May you always remember When the shadows fall You do not walk alone.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam

Dearly missed and always remembered by your son Conor

2ND ANNIVERSARY DOOLAN (NÉE HANNON)

In loving memory of a Dear Mother and Nan Kathleen Doolan (Nee Hannon) Ballinamanagh, Kilcummin Formerly of the Bronx, New York Who died on 11th January 2021.

Mom, It broke my heart to lose you But you didn’t go alone Part of me went with you The day God called you home.

Deeply missed and lovingly remembered by your daughter Catriona and son-in-law Ray x ~ ~ Nan

Of all the special gifts in life however great or small To have you as our Nan Was the greatest gift of all. May the winds of love blow softly and whisper in your ear ‘We love and miss you Nan’ And wish that you were here.

Missed and loved always by your grandchildren Cáitlin, Jarlath, Bláithín, Sinéad, Sonny and Cormac xxx xxx

2ND ANNIVERSARY DOOLAN (NÉE HANNON)

In loving memory of Kathleen Doolan (née Hannon) Ballinamanagh, Kilcummin (Formerly the Bronx, New York) Who passed away on 11th January 2021.

A great mother, nan and friend. Missed everyday.

Chroí briste ach cuimhní sona.

Always missed and lovingly remembered by Emmett, Ashling, Laoise and Maeve.

In loving memory of Kathleen Doolan (née Hannon) Ballinamanagh, Kilcummin Formerly the Bronx, New York Who died on 11th January 2021.

My memories of you are special They won’t fade away I think of you always Not just today

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam Sadly missed but always remembered by your son Ciarán.

5TH ANNIVERSARY

MAC SWEENEY

In loving memory of Denis MacSweeney, Late of St. Ann’s Road Killarney

Who died on 8th January 2018.

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

The golden gates stood open God saw you needed rest It’s garden must be beautiful He only takes the best.

Also remembering his wife Joan MacSweeney Who died on 2nd August 2016.

Always remembered by Lorraine and Oliver, Denise and Alan, Noreen and Karl, Louise and Ciarán, David and Kayleigh and grandkids Ella, Oran and Callum.

MCCARTHY

In loving memory of Noel McCarthy

O’Sullivan’s Place, Killarney Who died on 8th January 2022.

His wife Kathleen, sons Mike and Roger, daughter Mags, brother Tadgh and extended family, wish to express our sincere thanks to all who gave their support, kindness and sympathy on our sad loss.

To those who attended his removal and mass, send mass cards, floral tributes and online condolences.

Thanks to Fr. Jim, Fr. Paddy, Maura and anita for the beautiful mass and also, to Tadghie our sacristine. Thanks to Mary and Mike O’Shea and to the grave digger, Seamus.

What a wonderful guard of honour by An Post and his Legion Club, it was very special.

Thanks to Dr. Maura Cleary and to the nurses who called to our home. To Dr. Margaret Clifford and all the staff in the Hospice at UHK, ‘you are all angels’.

The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions.

1ST ANNIVERSARY MCCARTHY

In loving memory of Noel McCarthy

O’Sullivan’s Place, Killarney Who died on 8th January 2022.

You always had a smile to share Time to give and time to care A loving nature, a heart of gold One of the best this world could hold Never selfish, always kind These are the memories you left behind.

Always loved by Kathleen, Roger, Mike, Claire and Fintan and Mags, Colum and Eve.

50TH ANNIVERSARY

DOODY

In loving memory of Garda James (Seamus) Doody Coolgarrive, Killarney and Sundays Well, Cork Whose anniversary occurs on 7th January. May the God of Love and Mercy Care for our loved one who is gone And bless with consolation Those left to carry on.

Sadly missed and always remembered by your brothers Donie and Padraig (Pat) Doody and extended families.

16TH ANNIVERSARY

O’SULLIVAN

2ND ANNIVERSARY O’DONOGHUE

In loving memory of Dan (Daniel) O’Sullivan Tournanaugh, Kilcummin Whose anniversary occurs on 1st January.

Always in our thought and prayers from Mom, Dad, brothers and sisters. xxx

Uncle Dan

A beautiful memory dearer than gold

Of an uncle whose worth Can never be told There’s a place in our hearts No one can fill We miss you Dan And always will.

From all your nieces and nephews. xxx

13TH ANNIVERSARY

O’CONNELL

In loving Memory of Michael O’Donoghue

Late of Gortagullane, Muckross, Killarney Who died on 15th January 2021.

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

So rest in peace dear loved one And thanks for all you’ve done We pray that God has given you The crown you’ve truly won.

Dearly loved and sadly missed by your wife Cecily, sons Stephen, Paul, David and Michael, daughters-in-law Rhonda, Bernadette, Anita, and Breda, your 11 grandchildren and one great granddaughter.

Anniversary Mass is on Sunday 8th January at 9.30am in Muckross Church.

5TH ANNIVERSARY

CROWLEY

20TH ANNIVERSARY

GALVIN

3RD ANNIVERSARIES KELLIHER

In loving memory of Mick Galvin

Late of Ballaugh, Killarney Who died on 8th January 2003.

The ones we love don’t go away They walk beside us every day Unseen, unheard, but always near Still loved, still missed, still very dear.

Lovingly remembered by your wife Ronnie.

Anniversary Mass is on Tuesday 10th January at 9.30am in the Church of the Resurrection.

20TH ANNIVERSARY

GALVIN

In loving memory of Eddie and Mary Kelliher

Leamnaguilea, Kilcummin, Killarney Eddie who died on 9th January 2020 and Mary who died on18th January 2020.

They dwell among the angels now They left us much too soon They glide across a golden field Above the harvest moon.

Sadly missed and fondly remembered by your loving sister Breda, brother-in-law Pat, nieces, nephew, grand nieces and grand nephews.

3RD ANNIVERSARY KELLIHER

In loving memory of Mick Galvin

In loving memory of Eddie and Mary Kelliher

In loving memory of Noreen O’Connell

Late of Eagle’s View, 32 Millwood, St. Margaret’s Road, Killarney Who passed away on 4th January 2010.

Somewhere beyond the sunset Where loved ones never die You reside in God’s garden Beneath a golden sky.

Sadly missed and always remembered by her family.

Anniversary mass is on Saturday 7th January 2023 at 6.15 pm in St. Mary’s Cathedral, Killarney.

25TH ANNIVERSARY

O’DONOGHUE

In loving memory of Geoffrey O’Donoghue

Late of Bishop Moynihan Crescent, Killarney Who died on 12th January 1998.

Those we love remain with us For love itself, it lives on And cherished memories never fade Because a loved one is gone.

Down the path of memories We gently tread today Our thoughts and prayers are with you As life goes on its way.

Always loved and never forgotten by his wife Mary, son Geoffrey, daughter Christine and son Edward.

Anniversary Mass will be held is on Saturday 7th January at 6.15pm in St. Mary’s Cathedral, Killarney.

JESUS

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

In loving memory of A dear husband, father and grandfather Dan Crowley

Inches, Rathmore

Whose anniversary occurs on 5th January. R.I.P.

Quickly and quietly came the call Without farewell you left us all A sudden call from God on high You had no chance to say goodbye Without farewell you fell asleep But memories of you we’ll always keep.

You never failed to do your best Your heart was true and tender You worked and toiled for those you loved And left us to remember.

Sadly missed and alway remembered by your loving wife Margaret, daughters Eileen, Breda and Margaret, sons in-law and grandchildren.

8TH ANNIVERSARY

FORAN

Late of Ballaugh, Killarney Who died on 8th January 2003. We hold you close within our hearts And there you shall remain To walk with us throughout our lives until we meet again.

Always remembered by John, Karen and Nessa.

20TH ANNIVERSARY

GALVIN

In loving memory of A wonderful father Mick Galvin

Late of Ballaugh, Killarney Who died on 8th January, 2003. You were always there When we needed you No task too great or small With loving heart and helping hands For us you did it all.

Always remembered by your loving daughter Miriam, Paudie, Dylan and Gary.

16TH & 14TH ANNIVERSARIES

O’SULLIVAN

Leamnaguilla, Kilcummin, Killarney Whose anniversaries occur on 9th and 18th January.

Deep are the memories

Precious they stay No passing of time Can take them away

They bring a smile Sometimes a tear But always a wish That you were still here.

Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by John, Brenda, Colm, James and Hannah.

First Anniversary Mass will be held on Sundayth January 2023 at 10am in Ballyhar Church.

10TH ANNIVERSARY

O’SHEA

In loving memory of

Who died on 4th January 2013.

At every turning of my life

I came across good friends

In loving memory of Noreen Foran, 43 O’Kelly’s Villas, Killarney

Who died on 7th January 2015.

Those we love don’t go away They walk beside us every day Unseen, unheard, but always near Still loved, still missed and very dear.

Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by daughters Maureen, Noreen, Tricia, sons Dan and John, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, grandchildren, great grandchildren, sisters, brothers, extended family, friends and neighbours.

Noreen’s Anniversary Mass is on Saturday 7th January at 6.15pm in St. Mary’s Cathedral.

In loving memory of Our dear parents, Joan who died on 4th January 2007 and Patrick who died on 5th August 2009 Late of Annaghbeg, Gneeveguilla.

A special day, another year

A loving thought, a silent tear

A little prayer to keep in touch Mum and Dad, we miss and love you so much.

Sadly missed by your loving daughters Breeda, Eileen and families.

Friends who stood by me Even when the time raced by Farewell, farewell my friends I smile and bid you goodbye No, shed no tears, for I need them not All I need is your smile

If you feel sad, think of me

For that’s what I would like

When you live in the hearts Of those you love Remember that you never die.

Love always, Michael, Marion and Elizabeth.

JESUS

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

Vivien O’Shea, Cleeny, Killarney

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT & 1ST ANNIVERSARY O’CALLAGHAN

In loving memory of Peggy O’Callaghan Cloonteens, Kilcummin

Who passed away on 7th January 2022.

The family of the late Peggy wish to acknowledge the many expressions of sympathy and gestures of kindness shown to us following our sad loss.

We offer our heartfelt thanks to the many relatives, neighbours and friends who visited our home, attended the wake, mass and burial, those who sent flowers and cards and who posted messages of condolence.

We would like to thank Fr. Niall Howard who called to our home and provided support and guidance to us and who, together with Fr. Tom Looney, made her requiem mass so special.

We also wish to thank the Officers and Members of Kilcummin GAA Club who formed a Guard of Honour for the funeral cortege and to the many people who lined the route from our home to the church to show their support due to Covid times.

Thank you to Mary and Mike O’Shea and to Gerard Fitzgerald for their sensitive and professional handling of arrangements.

As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgment as an expression of our deepest gratitude. The holy sacrifice of the mass has been offered for your intentions.

Peggy’s First Anniversary Mass is being offered on Saturday 7th January at 7.30pm in Kilcummin church.

1ST ANNIVERSARY

REEN

2ND ANNIVERSARY O’CARROLL

In loving memory of Daniel (Danny) O’Carroll

Crohane, Fossa, Killarney and Late of Kilmorna, Listowel and Leeds Who died on 12th January 2021.

I remember the day I met you The day God made you mine I remember the night I lost you And will until the end of time

I lost my life’s companion My husband and my best friend And when the Lord will call me When my life is through I pray that God will take my hand And lead me straight to you.

Loved and missed always by your loving wife Nora.

First Anniversary Mass is on Saturday 14th January at 7.30pm in the Prince of Peace Church, Fossa.

2ND ANNIVERSARY O’CARROLL

In loving memory of Daniel (Danny) O’Carroll

Crohane, Fossa, Killarney and Late of Kilmorna, Listowel and Leeds Who died on 12th January 2021.

Our hearts still ache in sadness Our silent tears still flow For what it meant to lose you No one will ever know

A silent thought, a secret tear Keeps your memory ever near Death leaves a heartache no one can heal Love leaves a memory no one can steal.

Loved and missed always by Susan, John, Claire, Bryan and Nicola.

2ND ANNIVERSARY O’CARROLL

7TH ANNIVERSARY O’LEARY

3RD ANNIVERSARY

MOYNIHAN

In loving memory of A dear wife, mother and nana Catherine O’Leary Knocklebede, Kilcummin who died on 8th January 2016.

Life is a river, I’ll go with the flow and where it will take us god only knows I miss you sweetheart your kindness and love But I know one day we will sail away on gods ocean above.

Always loved and fondly remembered by your husband Patie, son Ian, daughters Marie and Kayleigh, grandchildren Aimee, Rhea-Kate, Noah and Freddie, son-in-law John and daughter-in-law Aileen.

20TH ANNIVERSARY & BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE

KELLY

Treasured memories of Tina Kelly

Late of Upper Lissivigeen, Killarney Who died on 6th January 2003.

Sadly missed along life’s way Quietly remembered every day No longer in our lives to share But in our hearts you’re always there.

Also remembering Our dear parents and grandparents Dan and Kathleen Kelly Whose anniversaries occur at this time.

Fondly remembred by Anthony, Mary, Donal and family.

10TH ANNIVERSARY

LAWLOR

In loving memory of Michael John Moynihan, Gullane, Gneeveguilla 02/09/1964 – 06/01/2020.

Each day we look to heaven Each day we call your name Each day just feels so different It hasn’t been the same.

We often wonder why? You had to go away from us Our angel in the sky.

We keep you in our memories since we’ve been apart And we’ll always have a part of you Locked safely in our hearts.

Greatly missed and loved always by his loving family, Eileen, Michelle & Aoife, Evie, Fionn, Frankie and Kevin.

49TH & 21ST ANNIVERSARY

LOONEY

In Loving memory of Jack and Alice Looney “Sliabh Luachra” Park Road, Killarney.

Cuireadh na Nollag Ansin chuala an guth ó na flaithis á rá: “Scríobh: Is beannaithe na mairbh a fhaigheann bás sa Tiarna.... i dtreo go scoirfidh siad dá saothar mar tá a n-oibreacha á leanúint.”

“Blessed are those who die in the Lord. Now they can rest after their labours for their good deeds go with them.” Rev. 14:13

Leaba i measc na naomh go raibh acu.

In loving memory of Michael Reen Torc Terrace, Killarney

Who passed away on 4th January 2022.

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.

Sadly missed and remembered by your mother Mary, brothers Jerdy, Sean and Patrick, sisters Mary, Mag, Carmel and Siobhan, sister-in-law, brothers-in-law, nephews and nieces.

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.

In loving memory of Daniel (Danny) O’Carroll

Crohane, Fossa, Killarney and Late of Kilmorna, Listowel and Leeds Who died on 12th January 2021.

Your life was full of love and labour Your love for your family true You did your best for all of us We will always remember you.

Missed by your daughter Teresa, Joe, Louise, Alan and Laura Daly.

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. G.M.

In loving memory of Tady Lawlor

Late of Gullane, Gneeveguilla

Who died on 12th January 2013. Rest In Peace

Time unfolds another year Memories keep you very near No words needed except to say You are loved and thought of everyday.

Sadly missed by Margaret and all the family.

Anniversary Mass is on Sunday 22nd January at 9.30am in the Church of the Holy Rosary, Gneeveguilla.

ST. THERESA

St. Theresa the Little Flower, please pick me a rose from thy heavenly gardens and send it to me with a message of love. Ask God to please grant me the favour I thee implore and tell him I will love him each day more and more. Amen. E.S.

2ND ANNIVERSARY LOONEY

In loving memory of Eileen Looney

Kiltrasna Farmhouse Muckross, Killarney

Who passed away on 7th January 2021. May she rest in peace .

To a mom that was very special who did everything she could while she was with us to make us happy You were in his hands in the end As God wanted you to be with him I love and miss you terribly Mom but I know you are definitely with the man above.

Your daughter Joan

MCAULIFFE

In loving memory of Joe McAuliffe Lissivigeen, Killarney

Who passed away on 1st January 2022. We his family would like to acknowledge and thank all those who helped him during his illness. The nurses, doctors and carers who called and helped us to care for Dad at home during his last few months. Thank you to all those who sympathised, sent mass cards, phoned and attended his funeral, especially our neighbours and friends for all their help.. A special thanks to Fr. Kieran, who visited Dad regularly, and for the beautiful ceremony and all who contributed to it.

Thanks to O’Shea’s funeral parlour for their help and advice. Also, thanks to Lissivigeen NS and Spa GAA for organising the guards of honour.

It is not possible to thank everyone individually, so please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our appreciation.

Joe is forever loved by his wife Eileen, his eight children, Michael, Geraldine, Louis, Anthony, Joey, Fergus, Sinead and Johnny, his sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Gone are the days we used to share But in our hearts you are always there

The gates of memory will never close We miss you more than anyone knows With tender love and deep regret We who love you will never forget.

First Anniversary mass is on Saturday 7th January at 6.15pm in St. Mary’s Cathedral, Killarney.

6TH ANNIVERSARY

LYNCH

In loving memory of Hannah Lynch (Nee Ryan)

12 Dromhall Park, Killarney

Who died on7th January 2017. Aged 87 years. Rest in Peace. You had a smile for everyone You had a heart of gold You left the sweetest memories This world could ever hold. From your nieces and nephews in Kilcummin.

14TH ANNIVERSARY

MCSWEENEY

In loving memory of Denis McSweeney, Late of 22 Dromhall Park, Killarney. Who died on 7th January 2009.

You always had a smile to share A laugh, a joke, a time to care Each of us in our own way Have special thoughts of you today.

Loved and remembered by Noreen, Sandra, Donagh, Sinead, Sarah, Cormac and grandchildren Sadbh, Roisín, Daniel and Liam.

12TH ANNIVERSARY MOLONEY

In loving memory of Bridie Moloney,

Late of Clash, Lissivigeen, Killarney Who died on 12th January 2011.

Those we love don’t go away They walk beside us every day Unseen, unheard, but always near Still loved, still missed and very Dear.

Always remembered by your son Brendan and daughter-in-law Francesca.

12TH ANNIVERSARY MOLONEY

In loving memory of Bridie Moloney

Late of Clash, Lissivigeen, Killarney Who died on 12th January 2011.

Mom if heaven had a number I’d call you on the phone To say how much I love you And tell you to come home

So rest in peace dear Mom And thanks for all you’ve done We trust that God has given you The crown you’ve truly won.

So sadly missed and will never be forgotten, love you always Mom xx

Your loving daughter Patricia, son-in-law Pat, grandchildren and great grandchildren. xx

Anniversary Mass is on Saturday 14th January at 6.15pm St. Mary’s Cathedral, Killarney.

6TH ANNIVERSARY MORIARTY

O’CARROLL

In loving memory of A Dear Husband Terence Moriarty Lackabane, Fossa, Killarney Who died on 11th January 2017.

A bouquet of beautiful memories Sprayed with a million tears Wishing God could have spared you If just for a few more years.

It does not take a special day For me to think of you Each Mass I hear, each prayer I say Is offered up for you.

We cannot bring the old days back When we were all together The family chain is broken now But memories live forever.

May He rest in peace, dear Jesus In Thy heavenly home above With the Sacred Heart of Jesus, In His own eternal love.

Along the road to yesterday That leads me straight to you Are memories of happy days Together we once knew.

A silent grief that’s in our hearts No human eye can trace For many a broken heart is hid Beneath a smiling face. Sadly missed, always loved and never forgotten by your loving wife Helen xxx

Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in Prince of Peace Church, Fossa on Saturday 7th January at 7.30pm.

6TH ANNIVERSARY MORIARTY

In loving memory of Patricia O’Carroll

Woodlawn Park, Killarney

Who died on 8th January 2022.

As we remember our mother Patricia on her first anniversary, we her family wish to thank the following.

We greatly appreciate those who helped Patricia including all at Cahernane Medical Centre, Pharmacist Ian Trant and his team and Our Lady of Lourdes Nursing Home. Special thanks to the extended McCarthy and O Carroll families for their love and support throughout her life.

To Patricia’s circle of friends especially the Woodlawn community for their friendship and support.

To the wonderful carers who ensured Patricia’s comfort at home for as long as possible.

Thank you to those who sympathised, sent Mass cards, phoned, sent messages of condolence and traveled to Patricia’s funeral.

We are ever grateful for the guidance and kindness of O’Sheas Funeral Directors, to Fr. Niall Howard, Fr. Kieran O Brien and Patricia’s cousin Fr. Donie O Connor.

As we cannot thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our appreciation. Mass will be offered for your intentions.

Patricia is missed every day but we take comfort that she is reunited once again with her husband Jimmy O Carroll.

Mass for Patricia O Carroll will take place on Saturday 7th January 2023 at 6.15pm in St. Mary’s Cathedral, Killarney.

15TH, 28TH & 6TH ANNIVERSARIES QUINLAN, HANNON AND BRAY

5TH ANNIVERSARY DOYLE

Treasured memories of Our dear friend Joe Doyle,

Late of Knockeeragh, Killarney.

Who died on 5th January 2018.

No verse can say, no flowers repay How much we lost five years today

To hear your voice, to see your smile To sit and talk with you awhile

To be together in the same old way Would be our dearest wish today You lived your life with little needs Full instead of selfless deeds

For everyone you did your best my God grant you eternal rest.

Sadly missed by the O’Sullivan family, Whitebridge.

Anniversary Mass is on Saturday 7th January at 6.15pm in St. Mary’s Cathedral.

In loving memory of A Dear Father Terence Moriarty

Lackabane, Fossa, Killarney Who died on 11th January 2017.

Today is a special day Like many other days that we live As thoughts of you are shining through The caring things you did.

Today is a reminder That life can be tough Because the time we shared with you Just wasn’t long enough.

For you were someone special Who never wanted praise Who’ll always be remembered With gratitude in so many different ways.

On your birthday in heaven We are sending all our love And hope you know you’re missed More than the words from all of the above.

From your loving sons, Padraig and family, Seamus and family, and Terence Jnr and Kelsey. xx

PRECIOUS MOTHER OF JESUS

Mother of Divine Grace, you can find a way, where there is no way. Please hear my prayer and grant me my request. (Say 6 times daily & your request will be granted).

FOT

In loving memory of Ann Quinlan

Late of 45 St. Brendan’s Place, Killarney

Who died on 16th January 2008.

Annie Hannon who died on 21st Jan 1995 and Annie Bray who died 1st Jan 2017.

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 you’re not there.

We laugh, we talk, we play the part, But beyond the smile is a broken heart. The sorrow we feel, we can never explain, And the ache in our hearts will always remain.

Fondly remembered by Dawn.

JESUS

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

| By Adam Moynihan

SPORT

Adam on Twitter @AdamMoynihan

ADAM MOYNIHAN E: sport@killarneyadvertiser.ie

Mahony takes charge of Dr Crokes hurlers

Ex-Kerry footballer to manage Dr Crokes in senior hurling championship

Former Kerry footballer Aidan O’Mahony has been unveiled as the new manager of the Dr Crokes senior hurling team.

O’Mahony, a five-time All-Ireland winner, replaces the outgoing John Lenihan who led the side during their first two seasons at senior level. Lenihan will now form part of O’Mahony’s backroom team, which also includes Eoin Walsh, Eoin O’Shea and Rob Ryan, as well as statistician Ivan Hurley.

Last year O’Mahony led the MTU Kerry footballers to the semi-finals of the Sigerson Cup before just coming up short against eventual champions NUI Galway. He has also previously worked with the Kerry minors.

Crokes’ cross-code appointment may seem a little unusual at first glance but the Rathmore native had already been involved with the club’s hurlers as a strength and conditioning coach. He also resides in Killarney and his children attend Crokes’ juvenile academy.

Speaking to the Killarney Advertiser, Dr Crokes chair Matt O’Neill explained

that it was the Crokes players who put O’Mahony’s name forward for the position.

“John Lenihan asked to step back from the role and it was the senior hurlers themselves who asked Aidan if he’d take on the job. He then asked to meet with myself and we did. He has very ambitious plans and I jumped at the opportunity [to appoint him].

“His managerial skills are well-proven and his professionalism is second to none. He’s got serious support from the players and the standards that he’s setting are very high. Why wouldn’t you go for a man of his calibre?”

Crokes exited the 2022 Kerry SHC having lost both their group games but the club’s hurling stock is clearly on the rise.

They competed in the 2022 North Kerry Championship, defeating Lixnaw in the preliminary round, and they are the reigning South Kerry hurling champions having defeated Kenmare Shamrocks by 1-20 to 2-13 in November.

Matt O'Neill Dr Crokes chairman

BAINISTEOIR: Aidan O'Mahony is the new manager of the Dr Crokes senior hurling team.

Photo: Piaras Ó Mídheach/ Sportsfile.

Follow

EAMONN FITZGERALD & SEAN MORIARTY

He’s got serious support from the players and the standards that he’s setting are very high. Why wouldn’t you go for a man of his calibre?

MURPHY

Skilful attacker who caught eye in his first year as starter for East Kerry, despite lining out alongside several more established and decorated footballers. Played midfield for the Kerry U20s when they won the Munster Championship in 2022. Has been highlighted as one to watch by numerous observers but might need a little time to settle in.

BURNS

Well-built keeper with an excellent range of kicking. Named on the 2019 Minor Team of the Year. Recently selected as 2022 Munster U20 Footballer of the Year after keeping two clean sheets in two games. Also kicked a free against Clare and against Tyrone in the All-Ireland semifinal.

BARRY MAHONY

DAN O'SULLIVAN

Highly skilled dual player who has previously starred for the Kerry hurlers. Outstanding for Feale Rangers as they unexpectedly reached last year's county semifinal. A stylish kicker who can pick teammates out with pinpoint passes. Played i lár na páirce alongside Diarmuid O’Connor on the 2017 minor team.

One of Dingle's standout performers on their run to the 2022 county final. Made eight league appearances for Kerry under Eamonn Fitzmaurice. Member of Jack O'Connor's All-Ireland-winning minor team in 2014. His father, Bernard, played for Kerry in the early eighties.

Versatile middle third player who starred for East Kerry in their Kerry SFC triumphs in 2019 and 2020. A powerful runner with and without the ball. Already appears to have the athletic attributes to play intercounty.

Lined out in the full back line for Kerry at U20 level (four appearances across 2020 and 2021) but plays centre back for his club. Scored a goal when Kenmare beat Stacks in the last year’s relegation playoff.

Jack adds 10 new players to the mix

This week Kerry manager Jack O’Connor confirmed that he has added 10 players to his extended training panel ahead of the 2023 season, which got underway in earnest with Wednesday night’s McGrath Cup game against Cork. Here, Adam Moynihan takes a closer look at the newcomers, starting with an exciting prospect from the parish of Listry…

Silky forward with an eye for goal and a prolific scoring record. Played 16 games for the Kerry minors and U20s across five seasons, registering 5-49 in total (four points per game). Cousin of Paul.

RONAN

BUCKLEY

Club: Listry/East Kerry Age: 20

Position: Half Forward

All action enforcer who returns to the Kerry fold after previously featuring under Peter Keane. Started at half forward against Cork in 2020 but is perhaps best known as a midfielder. Key figure for East Kerry last season as they secured their third County Championship title in four years.

SPICING THINGS UP: Kerry manager Jack O'Connor has brought a number of new players into his All-Ireland-winning panel. Photo: Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile.

Teak-tough man-marker. Excelled for East Kerry in 2022, emerging as one of the players of the championship. Lined out at full back on the 2017 minor team.

EDDIE HORAN

Club:

Another graduate of the class of ’17. Strong attacker who can win his own ball and pick off scores. Comfortable in a variety of positions. Played for the Kerry U20s alongside twin brother Seán in 2019 and 2020.

What’s Another Year catapulted Johnny Logan into a Eurovision solo career, especially in Europe. It is the same question, in a different context, that many sports clubs and team managers are asking themselves this week as a new year in sport begins.

The vast majority will look back on 2022 with many regrets of losses and the ones that got away (or, more poignantly, were allowed to get away). That elusive silver was like chasing mercury. Blaming the manager when you lose is the usual cop-out. Get a new broom sweeper. Clubs across the sports divide find it difficult to get a manager and their management team. Money becomes the incentive to get a “name” who will be likely to bring home the cup. The worst-kept secret in the GAA, an amateur game that demands far more commitment for players and managers than some other so-called professional sports, is that managers are paid.

Last year Galway topped the GAA by spending over €2 million on their county teams. Kerry’s match expenses were €162,765 with €1,445,730 on team administration expenses. At club level, some clubs had to dig deep into their lotto earnings to pay managers from outside the club.

And with all that, there can be only one winner. Best of luck to all teams in their searches for the winning formula and the person to deliver that cup. The Kerry hurlers and footballers are already in action.

LEADER: David Moran will be a key player for Kerins O’Rahillys when they take on Kilmacud Crokes in Croke Park. Photo: Sam Barnes/Sportsfile.

Eamonn Fitzgerald previews this weekend’s All-Ireland Club semi-finals as Fossa, Rathmore and Kerins O’Rahillys set their sights on Croke Park

Kerry trio hoping for Happy New Year

We had Kerry for Sam in 2022, and now we have the Kerry soccer team worthy of support. I am very much looking forward to the entry of the Kerry soccer team in Division 1 of the League of Ireland.

When the licence came through, Kerry director Steven Conway said it was “a dream come true”.

“From watching my brother David captain Kerry versus Waterford 20 years ago on that historic night, being a former Kerry player for many years, it fills me with immense pride and emotion to fulfil this dream and now give it to every young boy and girl in the county.”

Best of luck to Billy Dennehy - a fine player in his day - and to all those behind the new Kerry senior soccer team. The days of the Kennedy Cup seem so far away. Let’s look forward to the home games on Friday nights under lights at Mounthawk, starting next month.

Spare a thought for the family of the late Pádraig Harnett, a man who did so much to promote soccer in Kerry and at FAI level.

CLUB FINALS

Of immediate interest this weekend are the three Kerry clubs playing All-Ireland semi-finals. the prize for Kerins O’Rahillys, Rathmore and Fossa is the most sought-after accolade for football clubs: being declared All-Ireland club champions. The grade does not matter. Your club stands at the summit.

RATHMORE v FETHARD

First up tomorrow (Saturday) at 2pm are Rathmore who are fortunate to have a short trip over the county bounds to Páirc Uí Rinn.

This Rathmore team has the potential to go all the way and I expect them to take this one in their stride. The referee will be James Molloy.

Playing in Páirc Uí Rinn may well faze the Wexford club side, so Rathmore should capitalise fully on it. Derry-born Chrissy Spears will most likely be Rathmore’s top scorer and may reach double digits again. He is the top scorer in this grade after two rounds in Munster; he scored 12 points in the Munster final and Dapper’s son-in-law is the reliable free-taker to build up a winning lead. No better striker for a goal than Rathmore’s veteran corner forward John Moynihan of Rathmore, who is fortunately injury-free this season.

In contrast, St Mogue Fethard are depending on Cian Byrne and John Tubritt to score. However, their scoring is very modest.

Kenneth O’Keeffe, Andrew Moynihan and Paul Murphy provide a strong spine in defence. Rathmore for Croker.

FOSSA V CASTLETOWN

As a venue, Portlaoise has not been kind to Kerry teams. Too often I have seen U20, colleges and club teams lose at O’Moore Park so this match, which is fixed for 2pm tomorrow (Saturday), will be a test for Fossa.

Referee Niall McKenna will be a central figure in the outcome. No doubt the Cliffords will be doubly marked - at least- but they are so good that it is hard to keep their tallies to single figures. The O’Shea brothers may well slip under the radar to notch those winning scores. Getting the ball in quickly should be the ploy of midfielders Darren Ryan and Cian Doyle.

Yes, Fossa are still good enough to qualify for the final in Croke Park one week later.

KILMACUD CROKES V KERINS O'RAHILLYS

Croke Park, Sunday 1.30 pm, TG4

Kerry clubs have found it very difficult to win the All-Ireland senior club title.

East Kerry won the first title in 1971 yet in the intervening half-century or so only Austin Stacks, Desmonds, Laune Rangers and Dr Crokes have been crowned

champions. Crokes have the best record winning the Andy Merrigan Cup in 1992 and again in 2017.

A 12% return is a poor dividend for a county that leads the way at intercounty level.

Unfortunately, Rahillys will not improve on that. In my book, far better Narries teams did not even win in Kerry. They are very dependent on the powerful David Moran and Tommy Walsh. Three other key players fly home for the games. A trip from Dubai is far from ideal for ace-free taker Jack Savage and reliable half-back Cormac Coffey. Gavin O’Brien will be coming from New York. The wide-open spaces - at what is really a home venue in Croke Park - will suit Kilmacud best of all. They have plenty of scoring power and anything like a repeat performance by Shane Walsh of his day versus Kerry will prove too much for Strand Road. I expect Coffey to pick up Walsh.

Kilmacud are still sore from losing out to Kilcoo in last year’s final. No slip-up this year. So that’s it and you can see both senior semi-finals live on TG4. Maigh Cuilinn (Galway) will play Glen (Derry) at 3.30pm. I expect a Glen v Kilmacud final pairing.

OVER-CONFIDENCE

The summit may be in view, but they are not there yet. Players and management realise there are few kudos for playing well but not winning. Semi-finals are often more of a test of character than even

finals. On provincial form, Fossa and Rathmore will skate into their respective finals, while Rahillys will have it all to do. That’s paper talk. Victories are not paper exercises.

In my view, over-confidence will be the biggest threat of all. Fossa scored 1-17 in their runaway victory in the Munster final. But it was game-on for both sides until Paudie Clifford popped up to score two late points, giving them breathing space at the interval. Then, class told as Fossa chalked up a big second-half score. So easy but remember that the Clifford brothers scored 1-14 of that 1-17. What if either of them goes off injured this weekend, or one is sent off? It’s not beyond the realms of reality, because they will be targeted for special attention. Unless the referee uses common sense and identifies the whodunnit, then innocence and retaliation create the shemozzle of uncertainty.

I still favour Fossa to advance, but the ambush may be just postponed.

So here’s to Fossa and Rathmore making it to Croke Park on January 15 and the Kerry dominance of the junior and intermediate crowns to continue. Not so at senior level.

PELÉ

My all-time favourite soccer star succumbed to the dreaded cancer and died recently. Edson Arantes do Nascimento was too much of a mouthful for the young boys in the Mon, so the abbreviated Pelé was a godsend.

Ironically, the infamous Rule 27, better known as the Ban, was in vogue and in our innocence we believed that by calling him Pelé, that one was really acknowledging a great footballer even if he was from far away Brazil.

That era predated punditry and TV playbacks, so one had to rely on the commentator on the wireless to convey the grandeur, skill and goalscoring ability of Pelé. He reigned supreme and even in his last days as the World Cup reached its final stages, the shimmies and undoubted skill of Messi et al paled in significance with that of the Brazilian.

Stats tell us some of the story: three World Cups, 77 goals for Brazil, and 643 goals for Santos. He did it all with the speed of a gazelle, the heart of a lion and the jumping power of a puma.

The class of Pelé always shone through.

Mighty, mighty Pelé. RIP.

STAR ATTRACTION: Fossa talisman David Clifford will come in for special attention in tomorrow's All-Ireland semi-final. Photo: Michael P Ryan/Sportsfile.

The Big Kerry Football

1. Patrick O'Sullivan returned as Kerry GAA Chairman in 2022. What is his nickname?

A: The Bomber

B: The Bag

C: The Bear D: The Boy

2. What was unusual about the jerseys that Kerry wore in their first 2022 McGrath Cup game against Limerick?

A: The jerseys were worn inside out due to a colour clash

B: There were no numbers on the chest

C: The word 'GROUP' had been removed from the 'KERRY GROUP' logo

D: The crests were back to front

3. Complete the Jack O'Connor quote: 'I enjoyed [managing Kildare], no regrets, but it wasn’t sustainable to keep it going. I’d have had to get __________!”

A: divorced

B: a helicopter

C: a chauffeur

D: a private jet

4. Who was the Man of the Match when Kerry beat Dublin in Tralee?

A: Jack Barry

B: Adrian Spillane

C: Brian Fenton

D: Diarmuid O'Connor

5. Kerry beat Donegal by 1-13 to 0-7 in Round 3 of the league. Where was the game played?

A: Killarney

B: Tralee

C: Ballybofey

D: Letterkenny

6. Which player registered 0-5 (two frees) in the league victory over Armagh?

A: Paul Geaney

B: Jack Savage

C: Killian Spillane

D: David Clifford

7. Darren McCurry scored a brilliant goal for Tyrone in the Fitzgerald Stadium. Who provided the assist?

A: Conor Meyler

B: Mattie Donnelly

C: Kieran McGeary

D: Darragh Canavan

8. How many goals did Kerry score in the league final against Mayo?

A: 1

B: 2

C: 3

D: 4

9. Who was Player of the Game for the Kerry ladies in their Division 2 league final win over Armagh, despite only coming on eight minutes into the second half?

A: Louise Ní Mhuircheartaigh

B: Danielle O'Leary

C: Niamh Carmody

D: Anna Galvin

10. The Munster semi-final between Cork and Kerry could not be played at Páirc Uí Chaoimh because a concert was being staged there. Which artist was performing?

A: Garth Brooks

B: Nathan Carter

C: Dua Lipa

D: Ed Sheeran

11. Who refereed the All-Ireland quarter-final between Kerry and Mayo?

A: David Gough

B: Seán Hurson

C: Joe McQuillan

D: David Coldrick

12. Which Dublin player conceded the free that led to Kerry's winning point in the All-Ireland semi-final?

A: Davy Byrne

B: Michael Fitzsimons

C: Lee Gannon

D: Jonny Cooper

CELEBRATIONS: Paudie and David Clifford embrace after the final whistle on All-Ireland final day. What song was playing in Croke Park at the time? Photo: David Fitzgerald/Sportsfile.

Quiz 2022

2022 was an outstanding year for Kerry football – but were you paying attention?

13. In which minute did Seánie O'Shea kick his match-winning point against Dublin?

A: 74th

B: 75th

C: 76th

D: 77th

14. Soccer star John Egan said he modelled his new haircut on which Kerry player?

A: David Clifford

B: Jason Foley

C: Seánie O'Shea

D: David Moran

15. The 2000 song 'We Want the Sam Maguire' became popular once again in the weeks before the 2022 All-Ireland. Complete the opening line: 'Declan Keeffe is in the goals, he's _____________'

A: always saving shots

B: Kerry's number one

C: solid as a rock

D: from Rathmore

16. Kerry brought on two subs at half-time in the All-Ireland final. Name them.

A: Killian Spillane and Adrian Spillane

B: Jack Savage and Micheál Burns

C: Paul Murphy and Joe O'Connor

D: Gavin Crowley and Stefan Okunbor

17. Shane Walsh kicked 0-9 in the All-Ireland final. What club was he registered with at the time?

A: Moycullen

B: Mountbellew-Moylough

C: Corofin

D: Kilkerrin-Clonberne

18. When Kerry won the All-Ireland, which song was played immediately after the final whistle?

A: The Rose of Tralee

B: An Poc ar Buile

C: We Want the Sam Maguire

D: I Gotta Feeling 19. Where did Kerry hold their official All-Ireland final after party? A: Copper Face Jacks B: Dtwo C: The Boar's Head D: Academy Plaza 20. Templenoe are now the fifth most successful club in the country in terms of football All-Star awards. How many have their players won?

A: 10 B: 12 C: 14 D: 16 21. Gavin White became the third Dr Crokes player to win an All-Star. Who was Crokes' first ever All-Star?

A: Connie Murphy B: Colm Cooper

C: Eoin Brosnan

D: Kieran O'Leary

A: 0-0 B: 0-1 C: 1-0 D: 1-1

Try our tricky multiple choice quiz and put your memory to the test! • Answers on page 70 YOUR SCORE: /25

SPORT NOTES

Killarney Celtic

LOTTO: Numbers drawn 7, 8, 19, 28. No jackpot winner. Match 3 winners received €50. Next jackpot €11,400 on Monday, January 9. Tickets available from The Dungeon Bookshop, Hegartys Park Rd, club members and online through clubforce.com.

REGISTRATION for the 2022/23 season is now open on clubforce.com for all sections from Academy to Adult.

Mastergeeha

LOTTO: There was no winner on Thursday, December 22 of the Jackpot for €6,800. Numbers drawn were 3, 7, 8, 11. Consolation prizes of €50 went to Alan Breen; Joan O’Leary, c/o John Lenihan; Ben Brosnan Jnr, Mastergeeha; Grace O’Sullivan, online. The next draw was on Fridaym December 30 for a Jackpot of €7,000. The numbers drawn were: 11, 14, 18, 21. There was no winner & consolation prizes of €50 went to Sheila O’Leary, Inch; Bertie & Luke Curtin c/o Bertie; Eileen O’Leary, Knocklebede; Áine O’Callaghan, Cloonteens. The next draw will be Friday, Jan 6 for Jackpot of €7,200.

Killarney Legion GAA

HAPPY NEW YEAR: The club would like to wish all our members, supporters, players and officials the very best for 2023. We would also like to acknowledge our sponsors, without whom the running of the club would not be possible. Also we would ask you to continue to support our Club Lotto as it is the lifeblood of the club’s finances. It is imperative as we continue to strive and progress going forwards.

NEW ARRIVALS: Congrats are in order for Eilise O'Donoghue and her husband

Jamie on the recent arrival of baby Lily May. No doubt Grandparents Donal and Linda are proud as punch with the new addition to the family. And also to senior footballer Stephen Flattery and his wife Ellen on the arrival pre-Christmas of baby Billy.

JAMES MIXIE PALMER RIP: The club extends its sympathies to the family of James Mixie Palmer. James was a member of the 1946 Killarney Legion County Championship winning side where he lined out in the centre back position. Born in Kenmare in 1927 he made 20 full championship appearances for Kerry, plus one substitute appearance. Initially picked as a forward he soon made his name as a defender, winning five Munster Championships and two All-Ireland championships in 1953 and 1955. He was ever present at corner back in 1955 in a year where he was joined on the pitch by Johnny Culloty. Interestingly he first appeared on the intercounty scene as a member of the Cork minor football team in 1945 before subsequently winning an All-Ireland Junior Championship medal with Kerry in 1949. He claimed his first All-Ireland title after a defeat of Armagh in the 1953 All-Ireland final. After defeat by Meath the following year, Palmer collected a second winners' medal after lining out at left corner-back in Kerry's defeat of Dublin in the 1955 All-Ireland final. And interestingly he also lined out with Waterford in the 1957 Munster Championship.

DEEPEST SYMPATHIES: The Club extends its sympathies to the family of Brendan O’Brien, Ballydavid Dingle and formerly of Marian Terrace Killarney. Brendan played underage football with the club, his brother in law is former

Club Officer Tom Griffin, his nephew KJ Griffin who played for the club at all grades. May he Rest in Peace. SPEEDY RECOVERY: We would like to wish our former Chairman and Club Stalwart Pat Moynihan a speedy recovery from recent surgery. Glad to report that Pat is on the mend, out and about over Christmas and here's hoping he makes a complete recovery as soon as possible.

Spa GAA

WISHING all our families, friends, neighbours, members, volunteers and sponsors all across the world a happy, healthy and peaceful New Year.

SPA GAA ANNUAL AWARDS NIGHT: A wonderful annual awards night was held in Hilliards on December 29 where a large crowd gathered to honour the worthy recipients. Lifetime Achievement was awarded to long serving member Seamus O’Donoghue. All-Ireland winner Mairead Mangan received the Social/Cultural Award in honour of Neilí & Tadhg O’Sullivan. Young Player of the Year, the Aidan Cronin Award, went to Timmy Moynihan, while Oliver Cremin Mulrey received Junior Player of the Year Award named after Pat Corcoran. Senior players were announced on the night where Mairead Bennett picked up the Senior Ladies 2022 award, chosen by her teammates. The coveted Senior player, named after John Doyle, was received by Shane Cronin. Sam Maguire made a special entrance with the help of senior players Dara Moynihan and Dan O’Donoghue. Entertainment was excellent with a piano bar and followed by Rachel O’Shaughnessy. The staff, food, and venue of Hilliard's was top class and superb. Thanks to the hard working com-

CAIRDE SPA DRAW takes place on February 2 at the clubhouse with special guest GAA President Larry McCarthy. Tickets can be collected from or returned to Andy (087 2236754) or Deirdre (085 1216359) or any of our club officers over the coming weeks.

LOTTO: No winner and next Monday’s Jackpot is €3,600.

CONDOLENCES to the Dennehy and Herlihy families on the passing of Peter Dennehy RIP, Knockanes, Headford. May he Rest in Peace.

COISTE NA NÓG AGM is scheduled for Thursday, January 12 and will take place in the Spa hall at 7pm. All are welcome.

REGISTRATION is now open on our website spagaa.com. Membership rates remain the same as last year.

GOOD LUCK to Dara Moynihan, Dan O’Donoghue and the Kerry team and management this week's in the Munster GAA McGrath Cup games.

GOOD LUCK to Fossa, Rathmore and Kerins O'Rahillys in this weekend's All Ireland Club Semi-Finals.

Dr Crokes GAA

SENIOR HURLING: We are delighted to announce the appointment of Aidan O’Mahony to the position of manager of our senior hurling team. Aidan will be joined by selectors Eoin Walsh, Eoin O’Shea, John Lenihan and Rob Ryan along with Ivan Hurley on statistics. We look forward to the continued progress of hurling in the club and wish Aidan, his management team and players every success in the upcoming campaigns.

AGM: Our Annual General Meeting will take place in the clubhouse on Thursday, January 19 at 7.30pm. Nominations for positions on the Club Executive and Motions to amend the club constitution must reach club secretary Paul Downey (secretary.drcrokes. kerry@gaa.ie) no later than Thursday, January 5.

LOTTO: December 2. Numbers drawn were 8, 20, 26, 27. Jackpot not won. 4 Lucky Dips receive €100 each. Jackpot for draw on January 9 will be €14,900. We are calling on all members to support our weekly lotto as this represents one of the main sources of revenue for the club.

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

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

PROGRESSIVE 31: Starts back on Wednesday, January 11 at 8pm. Bring €5 and a partner. All welcome.

HOMEWORK CLUB: After School Homework Club for primary school chil-

mittee Andrew Garnett, Anne Holland, Adrian O’Sullivan, Ivor Flynn and Triona Mangan.

GOLF: Grace Dennehy of Sapphire Signs (front, fourth from left) presenting first prize in the Sapphire Signs Mixed Foursomes to winners Catherine and Liam Hartnett. Also pictured are Captains Colm O'Shea and Kathleen Brosnan, Barry and Breda Duggan 2nd, Aoife Twomey and Declan Kelly 3rd, Stuart Graham and Laura Beth Malloy 4th, and Donal Considine (best gross) at Killarney Golf and Fishing Club. Photo: Michelle Cooper Galvin.

dren resumes in the clubhouse on January 5 from 3-5pm. Contact Leah 085 7122081 or Amy 085 7145706.

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

Kilcummin GAA

LOTTO: There were two winners on Monday, January 2 of the Jackpot for €4,750. Darragh McGuire, Páirc Chuimin & David McAuliffe c/o Munster Joinery. Numbers drawn were 9, 12, 19, 27. Next draw is Monday, January 16 for a Jackpot of €2,500.

Beaufort GAA

HAPPY NEW YEAR: Wishing all our readers everywhere a happy and healthy 2023.

LOTTO: No winner on December 23. Numbers: 20, 22, 23, 25.

CONSOLATION PRIZES: €80 Ed O’Neill, Deelish Park. €50 Will Robins, Shanacloon, Lyno, Killarney, Ann Marie O’Connor, Shanavalla. The next draw for a jackpot of €11,200 will be on Sunday, January 8. Good wishes for 2023 to all our lotto supporters and helpers.

CHRISTMAS QUIZ: The Christmas quiz was held on Friday, December 30 in Kate Kearney’s Cottage after a long break during Covid 19. There was a great attendance of Adult and Juvenile tables. After a tie breaker finish, the Joy family, Ardraw had a point to spare over the Spillane family, Coolmagort. The juvenile winners were the O’Sullivan team. Thank you to everybody who took part in the quiz, the organisers, MC Chris, Mary Jo for the questions,

sponsors, Kate Kearney’s Cottage, ticket sellers and everybody who helped on the evening. Your help is appreciated by the Club.

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 www.beaufortgaa.com

Milltown/Castlemaine GAA

LOTTO: Sponsored by Almas Takeaway, Milltown. The fortnightly club lotto draw took place on Friday, December 23 at the club grounds. There was no jackpot or match 3 winner on this occasion. The numbers drawn were 14, 25, 26 and the bonus ball was 20. Lucky Dip winners were as follows: €50 - Patrick Foley. €50 - Michael Horgan. €25 - Michelle Fleming. €25 - Danny McClure. €25 - Adele O'Dwyer. €25 - Fr. Luke Roche. Separately, we held the Annual Christmas Lotto Raffle for 2022 and the winners were as follows: €50 Burke’s Butchers: John Foley. €50 Spar Milltown: Shane Dinham. €25 Griffins Bar & Restaurant: Donal Ladden. €25 Alma’s Takeaway: Margaret Griffin. €25 Alma’s Takeaway: Stephen Mangan. €25 Doherty’s Pharmacy: Laura Clifford. €25 Londis Milltown: Mike O’Shea. €10 Golden Raffle Tickets (4 winners): Evelyn Twiss, David Wood, Muireann McAuliffe, Garry Murphy. Our next club lotto draw is scheduled

to take place on Monday, January 9 at 8pm in the Clubhouse where the jackpot will be increased to €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.

RACE NIGHT: What a night at the races, one that will be talked about for a while to come. Thanks to Harbour View Restaurant & Maine Valley Golf Club for being our hosts. The crack was mighty, as horses won, fell & got lost along the way - with some big winners on the night. Big thanks to everyone who supported our Race Night & those who attended last nights event. Special thanks again goes to our 52 Race Sponsors & the 288 Horse owners for adding to its success. Our MC Willie Murphy was outstanding, keeping us entertained throughout the night, his Gentle Banter & pure enjoyment was infectious - what a legend. Thanks to our sound & visual experts, Tom Hanafin & Ivan Stephens who volunteered their time & equipment for the night, very much appreciated guys. Thanks also to our race night betting station & sales team, Karena Spring, Josephine Twiss, Maura Twiss, Laura Scanlon & Eileen Roche. Thanks to Paud Hogan for bringing along our special guest - Sam Maguire. Presentations were made to David Heasman (Outgoing Snr Manager), Mike Murphy (Grounds Keeper)

& Pat Twiss (20th Anniversary link) all well deserved. Congratulations to our 2022 Award Winners on the night: Senior Player - David Roche. Junior PlayerDara O’Connor. Young Player - Anthony Kelliher.

GOLDEN TICKET DRAW: Overnight Stay & Spa Treatment in the Johnstown Estate Hotel, Dublin with a Helicopter Trip into Fairyhouse on Grand National Race Day. The winner was drawn by Peter Twiss (County Board Secretary) under the watchful eye of Sam Maguire himself. Huge congratulations goes to Anthony Kelliher - we’re all well jealous. Last but not least, the race night committee, thanks for an outstanding, superbly run social event. Ian Twiss, Emmett Spring, Paul Twiss, Suzy Doherty, Liam Doherty, Derek Twiss & Oliver Kirwan. And to the extended members of the executive for all their help in the build up & on the night itself.

WINNER: Congratulations to Aisling O'Shea who was announced the winner of our Race Night Facebook Competition last week. Aisling was the winner of the following prizes in advance of Fridays event: 3 x Yearly Club Lotto Tickets, 3 x Golden Tickets, 1 x Lucky Horse. Thank you to everyone who took the time to enter the competition in recent weeks. Your support is greatly appreciated.

SHOP: Milltown/Castlemaine GAA club gear and merchandise is now available to buy online from both the Club Shop and direct from O’Neills. The Club Shop contains details of the large amount of branded Milltown-Castlemaine & Kerry stock we have available within

KILLARNEY: President Paul Murphy, Captains Kathleen Brosnan and Colm O'Shea, and Junior Captains Alex O’Callaghan and Niamh Dinham at the Drive In at Killarney Golf Club on Tuesday. Photo: Michelle Cooper Galvin.

the club, for immediate delivery, visit milltowncastlestore.sumupstore.com to check stock levels and sizes. If you cannot find what you are looking for in the club store, then club gear is also available to purchase online in our dedicated O’Neills club shop. This site has everything from jerseys to playing gear to wet gear for supporters.

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

Killarney Golf & Fishing Club (Men)

ARBUTUS CUP: Played Monday, December26 on Mahony's Point. WinnerColm O'Shea 41pts, 2nd - Tommy Barry 40pts. Cat 1 - Cormac Finn 40pts. Cat 2 - Colin Moriarty 37pts. Cat 3 - Fergus Houlihan 37pts. Cat 4 - Bernard O'Shea 36pts. Best Gross - Shane Horgan (71).

MIXED FOURSOMES: Played Tuesday, December27 on Mahony's Point. Winners - Catherine & Liam Hartnett 43pts, 2nd - Breda & Barry Duggan 40pts, 3rd - Aoife Twomey & Declan Kelly 40pts, 4th - Lora Beth Malloy & Stuart Graham 39pts. Best Gross: Amy Arthur & Donal Considine (75).

Ross Golf Club (Men)

RESULTS: On December 26 we held a 10 hole mixed scramble which was very well supported. The winning team was Michael J O'Connor, Michael Barrett, Catriona Shanahan, Jim Delaney. On January 2 we also held a mixed scramble over 9 holes and again there was a good turnout. The winning team was Ivo O'Sullivan, John Ivory, Tony Lenihan.

SYMPATHY: We offer our sympathy to Mike Gorman and Past Lady Captain Mary Gorman on the recent death of Jeremiah Gorman RIP. We also offer our sympathy to Past Captain Alan Flynn and Ross member Ger on the recent death of their mother, Kathleen RIP.

Deerpark Pitch & Putt Club

CHRISTMAS COMPETITIONS: We thankfully had a busy run of competitions over the Christmas period with competitions taking place over four different days.

DECEMBER 23: We had our previously delayed U16 Christmas Competition (sponsored by Jason O’Connor) on this date and the following were the results First Nett: Ben Kelliher 49 (B9 22 1/2), Gross: Nathan Cronin 53 and Second Nett: Brian O'Leary 49 (B9 23 1/2).

ST STEPHEN’S DAY: On this date we

had a Three Ball Scramble where both the Danny Nolan Cup and Johnny Kelly Memorial Shield were on offer to teams on the day. Our Danny Nolan Memorial Cup winning team for 2022 were the three generations of the Kelly family who took part as the Johnny Kelly Memorial Shield for the Best Gross went to Margaret C Looney and our Club Matchplay Championship finalists in John McGrath and Daniel Kelly. Results- First Nett (Danny Nolan Memorial Cup): Eamon, Declan & Cathal Kelly 72 1/3, Gross (Johnny Kelly Memorial Shield): John McGrath, Margaret C Looney & Daniel Kelly 90, Second Nett: Sean Ashe, John Murphy & Betty O'Brien 74 1/3. Spot Prizes: Aidan O'Keeffe and Bobby Kelly.

NEW YEAR’S DAY: Two Ball ScrambleFirst Nett: Robbie O'Brien Snr & Noel Moynihan 33½, Gross: Noel Moynihan & Sean Kelly 43, Second Nett: Robbie O'Brien Snr & Betty O'Brien 35.

JANUARY 2: Two Ball Scramble- First Nett: Noel Moynihan & Betty O'Brien 34 ½, Gross: Sean Kelly & Robbie O'Brien Snr 48, Second Nett: Sean O'Brien & Niall O'Loughlin 37.

AGM: Scheduled for Monday, January 16 in the Killarney Avenue Hotel at 7.30pm. More details next week.

CONGRATULATIONS: To our former Club Registrar Alan Kelly and his wife Sarah on getting married over the Christmas period.

DEEPEST SYMPATHIES: The Club offers its sympathies to the family of Tim Shine on his passing over the Christmas period. The Club also offers its sympathies to Listowel’s Killian O’Gorman on

the death of his mother Mary Toomey. May they Rest in Peace.

Muckross Rowing Club

HAPPY NEW YEAR: Wishing all our members, past and present, supporters, family and friends a very Happy and Peaceful New Year. Athbhliain shuaimhneach.

CHRISTMAS EVENTS: Well done to all our members who took part in the club’s Christmas Duathlon held on Tuesday, December 27. Despite the wet conditions for the running leg, there was plenty competition in the challenge which involved a multi-kilometre race involving the ergometer and running from the boathouse. Hot food and prizes completed proceedings and the event was a great success. Our thanks to Marko Tot, Elaine Daly, Sharon Cooper and to everyone who helped with the event on the day. Following the duathlon, the club’s Table Quiz fundraiser was held on the same Tuesday evening at the Dromhall Hotel. We are most grateful for the tremendous support with a packed function room of quiz brains enjoying an entertaining night of trivia and fun. A big thanks to our quiz master Sean Coffey and to the committee members, supporters and young assistants who stepped in to bring it all together on the night. Many thanks also to everyone who sponsored a spot prize. A special word of thanks to Bernadette Randles and the staff and management of the Dromhall Hotel for hosting us on the night.

Killarney Bridge Club

RESULTS: Congratulations to all winners. Nov 7 - 1st John O’Shea & Teresa Mccarthy, 2nd Mary Moynihan & Helen McCarthy. Nov 14 - 1st Ger McSweeney & Maureen Culloty, 2nd Carmel Daly & Gerard Walsh. Nov 21 - 1st Carmel Daly & Gerard Walsh, 2nd Ger McSweeney & Maureen Culloty. Dec 5 was the annual Christmas party held in the Arbutus Hotel. A big thank you to Pat Gill and staff for a night of great food, drink, music and craic. Wishing all our members a happy and healthy New Year. Looking forward to seeing you all in 2023.

Kilcummin

KILCUMMIN COMMUNITY GAMES: The AGM of Kilcummin Community Games will take place on Monday, January 9 at 7.30pm in Kilcummin Recreational Hall. New members welcome.

KILCUMMIN COMHALTAS: It was with great sadness that we learned of the passing of our former Chairperson and branch member Jerh O’Gorman of Coolick. Jerh served initially as County Board Delegate from 1986–1995 and as our Chairperson from 1995-1997, before serving as Vice-Chairperson from 1997-1998. We extend our sincere sympathy to his wife Joan, his children Noreen, Diarmuid and Brigid and the extended family.

KILCUMMIN COMMUNITY DAY CARE: We would like to wish everyone a happy New Year. We will be reopening on Tuesday, January 10.

ROSS: At the presentation of the Maurice O'Donoghue Memorial Cup in the Ross Golf Club were Donie Broderick (Captain), Margaret O'Donoghue (sponsor) and Aidan O'Connor (winner).

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