KILLARNEY ADVERTISER WK21 2024

ARE YOU PLANNING YOUR SUMMER

PAGESIX

Home town praise as Moira Murrell appointed CEO of Cork County Council

The legacy that Moira Murrell has left in her home town has been acknowledge by Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce following her appointment as the Chief Executive Officer of Cork County Council.

In her 10 years as the Chief Executive Officer of Kerry County Council, the Killarney woman secured several key projects for the county and her home town.

The Chamber said when Ms Murrell first took up office in Kerry, she met with Tidy Towns representatives from Killarney who expressed concerns about the under-resourcing of local projects and she was good to her word when promising that the matter would be rectified.

The Killarney business representative organisation acknowledged that Ms Murrell’s great legacy in Kerry will be the fantastic progress that has been made with the provision of greenways which will attract significantly more visitors and create wonderful additional amenities for locals.

Planning rules “nonsensical in a housing crisis” Cllr Healy-Rae

A planning rule which prevents people from building houses on their own land next to major roads is being challenged by Cllr Maura Healy Rae.

The current planning policy states that any application house along national primary and national secondary roadways exiting from existing entrances will not be considered. Healy-Rae says this problem is particularly acute in the Killarney Municipal District given the amount of national roadway surrounding the area with the N22, N71 and N72.

“It is nonsensical that where an individual is living at home and using an existing entrance, can’t be considered to build their own house and use existing entrance they are already using,” she told the Killarney Advertiser.

“How Transport Infrastructure Ireland can quantify this as additional traffic is preposterous. Given we are in a housing crisis, given all the challenges surrounding planning, given exorbitant house

prices and the lack of affordable housing – it is ludicrous that this is a reason people are being refused planning.”

She called on Kerry County Council to write to the TII, the Minister for Transport and the Minister for Local Government requesting that the current blan-

ket policy be lifted.

“It [the policy] has directly resulted in numerous planning applications being refused and even considered at the pre-planning stage,” she added.

Kerry TD Danny Healy-Rae has also raised the issue in Dáil Éireann.

“As a Killarney woman, she can be very proud of the progress made with several local projects, including the enhancement of Muckross Road, the finalising of plans for the development of Áras Phadraig, securing URDL funding for key infrastructure developments, the advancement of plans for the Dinis-Torc walkway and cycle path and the planned college development at the former Pretty Polly site,” said Chamber Co-Presidents, Johnny McGuire and Pádraig Treacy a joint-statement.

“Killarney is very grateful to Moira Murrell for all she has done for her home tand for the county and we wish her every success in her new role. Cork, going forward, is certainly in a very safe pair of hands.”

Mr Harris is in Kerry to support local election candidates. He will visit Tralee and Killorglin on Friday morning before making his way to Killarney around lunchtime.

He will be greeted by Killarney Municipal District Fine Gael candidate Dermot Healy.

Members of the local branch of Fine Gael will join Mr Harris and Mr Healy in a town centre walkabout that is expected to start around 1:30pm on Main St. Sixth class pupils from several Killarney schools will also be on hand to meet the

Taoiseach Simon Harris will visit Kerry on Friday and will include Killarney on his whistlestop tour of the county.

Taoiseach.

Moira Murrell has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of Cork County Council. Photo: Michelle Breen Crean

Kerry International Film Festival to celebrate 25th anniversary

Kerry International Film Festival has announced that Amy-Louise O'Callaghan has been appointed Programming Director for 2024.

She will curate a special programme to celebrate 25 years of the festival, which takes place from October17 to 20, across a variety of venues in Killarney.

As part of its commitment to reach as many people as possible, KIFF also hosts county-wide film events throughout the year. In this capacity, Amy-Louise was thrilled to present a selection of award-winning KIFF films to a full house in Dingle as part of the brilliant Feile Na Bealtaine festival.

Another outreach event sees Amy-Louise host a KIFF/ Cruinniú na nÓg collaboration in Killarney on June 15. This event offers a free programme of short animations from Ireland and beyond, followed by an interactive stop-motion workshop.

Amy Louise is a film programmer and illustrator who has spent the last few years working in the Irish Film Institute on its annual schools programme, delivering an extensive selection of Irish and international films to young people throughout

Ireland.

“I am delighted to be appointed the Festival Programming Director for 2024. Coming from North Cork, access to arts and culture in rural areas has always been very important to me. Local film festivals like KIFF offer the opportunity to experience a huge variety of cultures and experiences, and everyone of all ages should feel welcome to come in and enjoy what’s on offer. I’m very excited to join such a great team to deliver a dynamic programme next October,” she said.

KIFF is immensely grateful to their title sponsors, Kerry Airport, as well as their key partners, including Kerry County Council, Screen Ireland, the Irish Film and Television Academy (IFTA), Tower Records Ireland, RTÉ Supporting the Arts, Randles Hotel, the Plaza Hotel, the Great Southern Hotel Killarney, Fáilte Ireland and Kerry Broadband as well as a wealth of local businesses, individuals and supporters.

Chamber’s tribute to former President

Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce has paid tribute to Patrick Walsh, a prominent Killarney businessman and one of the county’s most respected and successful building contractors, who has passed away.

Patrick was President of the Chamber in 1984-85 and during his term in office a number of important projects were implemented, including initiatives to considerably enhance the visual image of the town centre.

Chamber said Patrick was very generous with the time he devoted to the organisation and he was a very steady hand as the executive committee at the time worked on several ideas to help to create a better Killarney.

Given that he was originally from Farranfore, it was no surprise that Patrick became a keen aviation enthusiast and he qualified to hold his own pilot’s licence. He was hugely involved in the development of Farranfore Airport and his vision, drive and know-how helped, in no small way, to write several chapters in the success story that is the Kerry Airport of today.

Chamber said while the airport was built initially to boost tourism and the manufacturing industry in Kerry, which it continues to do, thanks to the pioneering spirit of Patrick Walsh and others of vision, the people of the Kerry are now among its principal users.

A building contractor of national renown, Patrick Walsh was responsible for many landmark developments in Killarney and throughout Kerry but a real monument to his craftsmanship is the striking Prince of Peace Church in Fossa.

Close on half a century after its construction, it is still considered one of the most spectacular places of worship in the country and, given its setting overlooking the lakes and mountains from its feature altar viewing point, it is no surprise that

it is one of the most in demand churches for wedding ceremonies.

With Patrick and his team working closely with then Parish Priest Fr James Galvin, the foundation stone for the church was laid in the summer of 1976 and the Prince of Peace Church was consecrated by Bishop Kevin McNamara on 5th June 1977.

Chamber noted that, over the years, Patrick was also involved in the vast majority of the maintenance projects in the churches and buildings under the ownership of the Killarney Parish and that involvement is continued today by his son, Martin, who is keeping the Walsh family name to the fore in the construction industry.

Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce has extended sincere sympathy to Patrick’s family, Fr Padraig, Martin, Elma and Canice, daughter-in-law Pamela, sons-in-law Declan and Micheál, his grandchildren Amy, Adam, Gavin, Stephen, Ian, Patrick and Ella, brother Tom, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and many other relatives and friends.

Patrick was predeceased by his wife, Helen, and his brothers Sean, Tadhg, Seamus and Mick.

Children from The Macademy Performace Arts School, pictured on stage during their Variety Show in Killarney at the weekend. Photo: Don MacMonagle

Taste of Summer...

Experience the flavour's of summer at The Peregrine, featuring locally sourced ingredients, inspired by the season. Explore à la carte options or indulge in a set menu priced at €85.00 per person.

Opening hours: Friday to Sunday from 6.30 - 9pm

T OWN TALK

One way traffic system mooted for St Oliver’s NS

The Killarney Advertiser understands that a one-way traffic management system will be introduced at St Oliver’s National School.

The plan remains subject to confirmation by Kerry County Council and other statutory bodies. It is understood that the system will be trialled at the beginning of the new school year in September.

The area is subject to serious traffic congestion during school drop-off and pickup times every day.

Over 650 pupils and 80 staff attend the school every day. New housing developments in the area have added to traffic congestion.

Cllr Martin Grady has being pushing for enhanced road safety measures at the school since his co-option to the council in September 2023.

“The issue has worsened in recent years with Woodlawn, Rookery Road and Ballycasheen having more domestic property developments which brings with it more road activity,” Grady told the Killarney

Advertiser.

“I've seen first-hand several accidents occur when dropping and collecting my children from the school. It needs a safe solution by means of a drop off- pick up point or a traffic management system put in place.

“It is unfair on all stakeholders involved. I will keep working on this until results are achieved in the interest of everyone's safety. “

The lack of urban school bus services, not just at St Oliver’s but at all schools is adding to Killarney’s traffic woes.

“I would like to see school bus services return for all students, in both urban and rural schools, this service was a massive loss, it would greatly reduce the volume of traffic on our roads and mitigate the risk of accidents and near misses,” added Cllr Grady.

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS • GOT A STORY? Call 064 6632215 or email: newsdesk@killarneyadvertiser.ie

Summer Tag Rugby at Killarney Rugby Club

Killarney Rugby Football Club’s Tag Tuesdays are back for summer 2024, running every Tuesday evening from 7-9pm at the club’s grounds in Aghadoe.

This mixed social tag rugby is open to everyone, with no previous experience required. Full instruction will be given for beginners.

Tag rugby is a fun and fast-moving non-contact variation of rugby, suitable for all ages and ability levels. It’s a great way to get fit and make new friends.

Teams are seven a side with minimum three ladies on each team.

For Tag Tuesdays, new teams will be made each night so don’t worry if you can’t make it every week.

Tags and belts are provided, all you need to bring is boots or runners suitable for grass. Several games will be played each night with games split into quarters giving plenty of time for refreshment breaks!

Tag Tuesdays are only €5 per night, pay as you go. For more information contact Eoin on 087 2146126.

“Ballyspillane deserves better” election candidate

A candidate in the forthcoming local elections has said that the Ballyspillane district in Killarney is being neglected, after local residents rallied against nightly bonfires affecting the area.

Caroline Kenneally, who grew up in the estate and is contesting next month’s local election in Killarney for Sinn Féin, said that local residents have been in touch with the party’s Tralee-based councillors for guidance and assistance.

“We are being told that bonfires are be-

ing lit regularly in the area, which is unacceptable, not just for the criminal and physical damage inflicted, but also the environmental damage due to air pollution from toxic smoke,” she said.

“it is important for us to address this issue and as a candidate, I will be on the ground locally to meet with residents and hopefully to speak with the people involved in setting these fires to listen to their grievances.”

Kenneally added: “The Ballyspillane Family Resource Centre, which was established in 2004, has been central to delivering valuable support initiatives under the Family & Community Services FRC National Programme.

“As a Ballyspillane native, I fully understand the issues at play and believe the

centre, along with the residents and local businesses, have an important role to play in reducing this type of anti-social behaviour.

“In 2018 we were promised that a CCTV system would be installed as part of a wider plan to reduce anti-social behaviour. However, almost six years later, we are still waiting for it to be delivered.”

The local election candidate has said that elected or not, she will seek a meeting with the local authority, An Garda Síochána and other stakeholders, to discuss future funding for the area.

Starting Sunday June 2nd 2024 Whether it's a family outing, a friendly get-together or a special celebration, join us for an enjoyable afternoon filled with indulgent cuisine and soulful jazz melodies. Create lasting memories amidst the stunning backdrop of one of Ireland's most iconic landscapes.

Two Courses €50 per person | 3 Courses €55 per person served with Tea/Coffee

Reservations are available from 12noon. Live Jazz with Velvin Lamont from 1pm-4pm. thedunloe.com

Beaufort, Killarney, Co. Kerry, V93 E029. Tel. 064 66 44111 Email. reservations@thedunloe.com

Killarney Plaza goes for gold!

The O’Donoghue Ring Collection has announced the addition of another prestigious award to its recent swathe of eco-based accolades.

Killarney Plaza Hotel & Spa has achieved a Gold Level Award from the 50 Shades Greener, Green Business Programme. The Gold Level certification recognises how the popular town centre hotel has incorporated sustainability across its business into its HR, Purchasing and Marketing operations.

It is only awarded to those businesses that have taken the time to look at their suppliers and form a green purchasing policy and who have incorporated their green ethos and goals into all recruitment and induction processes.

Since 2020, The O’Donoghue Ring Collection has taken a property-by-property approach to minimise environmental impacts called ‘Our Green Way’. As a result the Killarney Plaza Hotel & Spa has made a number of significant environmental strides.

Group General Manager Brian Lawlor said: “Our team is passionate about safeguarding the future and has worked incredibly hard to implement greener, more sustainable practices across every department in our properties. As part of the group-wide sustainability initia-

tive ‘Our Green Way’ we’ve successfully reduced our energy consumption, food waste, water use and carbon emissions and are well on the way to entirely ridding ourselves of single use plastic. It was most flattering to hear that, during their review of Killarney Plaza’s practices, 50 Shades Greener put us straight up to the Gold standard because so much of the work had already been done! But we’ve still plenty to be getting on with and with our clear action plans for all areas, we’re hoping that Emerald status will soon be within our grasp.”

The latest recognition of the family-run group’s commitment to sustainability comes after Killarney Plaza and two of its sister hotels – Killarney Towers Hotel & Leisure Centre, and Killarney Avenue Hotel – achieved the prestigious Green Hospitality Eco-Certification. O’Donoghue Collection’s unique Killarney Urban Farm, from which the portfolio’s hotels and restaurants take much of their sustainably-produced produce, also swept up the Green Hospitality honour at the recent return of the Killarney Looking Good Awards last October.

Local projects to get Local Enhancement Programme funding

Several Killarney clubs and projects will receive funding under The Local Enhancement Programme 2024.

This week the government announced that €152,954.78 has been allocated to 143 local projects in Kerry under the Department of Rural and Community Development’s Local Enhancement Programme 2024

The programme was launched in December 2023 with funding of €6 million available, which included €1 million in funding ring-fenced specifically to support Women’s Groups.

The funding will provide capital supports essential for the many small community groups and organisations, particularly those who serve disadvantaged areas in rural and urban areas.

The Department of Rural and Community

Development’s Local Enhancement Programme 2024 is administered by Local Community Development Committees, with support from the Local Authority, in each area.

Announcing the successful projects for Co. Kerry this week, Minister Heather Humphreys said:

“The Local Enhancement Programme is about giving a helping hand to our local groups and clubs, who are the building blocks of Irish community life.”

“I want to congratulate the successful applicants and to thank them for the vital work they do in providing services in their local communities”

“These grants will help thousands of community organisations, clubs, men’s and women’s sheds, youth centres and parish halls, to continue to provide their valuable services to the people in their areas.”

DOUBLE BRONZE FOR GYMNAST DAMON MURPHY: The Faha National School pupil won two bronze medals in the men’s Artistic Gymnastics finals at the National Indoor Arena in Dublin last weekend. Damon trains weekly with Douglas Gymnastics Club in Cork. He also trains with his mum Hayley Murphy at Legacy Elite Cheerleading and Gymnastics and with his dad Daniel at Flares Gymnastics. Damon took gold at the Kerry Gymnastics Community Games recently and is currently training for the national finals in June in Kilkenny.

Promoting Killarney as a business and conference destination

Two prominent Killarney businesses were in Frankfurt this week to promote Ireland and Kerry as an ideal place to host business conferences.

The Europe Hotel and Resort and Killarney Convention Centre attended IMEX Frankfurt 2024 in Germany this week to promote the island of Ireland for corporate meetings and incentive travel ~ Tourism Ireland – together with Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Northern Ireland, as part of the ‘Meet in Ireland’ team – is showcasing Ireland as a world-class Business Events destination to thousands of buyers who organise international meetings and incentive travel.

IMEX Frankfurt is one of the leading global exhibitions for Business Events i.e., the corporate meetings, events and incentive travel industry. Thirty-five tourism companies specialising in Business Events from around the island of Ireland –including The Europe Hotel & Resort and Killarney Convention Centre were on the ‘Meet in Ireland’ stand at IMEX. Around 1,900 commercial meetings will be conducted with global meeting and incentive travel planners this week, which will, in turn, deliver Business Events for Ireland from around the world worth millions of euro in 2024 and beyond. Tourism Ireland’s goal is to enable thousands of commercial Business Events meetings this year – connecting our tourism part-

ners from Ireland with overseas buyers to grow Business Events and support businesses across the island.

According to the latest CSO figures for overseas tourism, Ireland welcomed almost 1 million Business Tourists, for the 12 months from April 2023 to March 2024.

“IMEX Frankfurt is a key event in the industry calendar and an extremely important platform for us to promote the island of Ireland as a premier destination for Business Events. Business travel is high value and often midweek and off season by its nature, thereby aligning with Tourism Ireland’s strategy to grow overseas tourism revenue outside of the peak summer season,” said, Siobhan McManamy, Tourism Ireland’s Director of Markets, said:

“We are delighted to have 35 tourism companies from across the island of Ireland with us at this year’s IMEX Frankfurt. They’re engaging in almost 1,900 commercial meetings and showcasing the best of Ireland to influential meeting and incentive travel planners from around the world.”

Japanese language classes coming to Two Mile school

The pupils and staff of Two Mile Community National School were delighted to welcome Mr Norio Maruyama, the Japanese Ambassador to Ireland, on Tuesday.

The Ambassador was at the school to promote the teaching of the Japanese language and culture through the ‘Say Yes to Languages’ programme.

“The pupils in Two Mile were very interested to listen to stories about Japan

and to learn about the links between our two countries,” said school principal Catherine Barry.

“As a multi-denominational school, we are very open to different languages and cultures and we look forward to working with the Japanese embassy from next September.”

Two Mile Community National School is the only multi-denominational school in the Killarney school district.

Mill Road traffic concerns

Mill Road is witnessing an increasing amount of traffic as motorists use it as a rat run to avoid the town centre.

The road links Ballycasheen with Muckross.

Drivers arriving in Killarney and wanting access to the National Park or the Muckross area (or vice versa) are now using Mill Road more and more to avoid congestion on other approach roads.

Residents have voiced their concerns as they are now fearful that there will be a serious accident on the narrow road.

Cllr Brendan Cronin has raised the issue with Kerry County Council.

"I have requested that the council’s Roads Department provide speed

ramps as a matter of urgency as numerous residents have expressed their serious concerns with the speed of traffic and the constant danger trying to exit from their homes,” he told the Killarney Advertiser.

“The fact that the Mill Road is increasingly being used as a shortcut from Ballycasheen to Muckross with a huge volume of through traffic avoiding the town centre has now made the road extremely busy and very dangerous for local residents.

“It is imperative that the council install speed ramps for road safety as existing road signs and markings are being completely ignored and residents are fearful that it is only a matter of time before there will be a serious accident."

Mr Norio Maruyama, centre with Catherine Barry Principal, Two Mile CNS, members of the Japanese delegation and Noreen Dineen, Alps Electrical Ireland.

Robyn Davis, RCD Events Worldwide; David Cronin, The Europe Hotel & Resort; and David Boyce, Tourism Ireland, on the Meet in Ireland stand at IMEX Frankfurt 2024.

Margaret, Denis, Edmond and Aine Myers, Noreen, John and Billy O’Leary at the celebration and blessing of the five new boats at Fossa Rowing Club, Old Church Fossa on Sunday.

Fossa Rowing names five boats after club stalwarts

Fossa Rowing Club christened five new boats on Sunday last.

The purchase of the boats was the result of years of work by different committees, fund raising support from the community, a sports grant from Department of Sport and with local and national political support.

It is a club tradition to name and bless the boats before they take to the water.

“The boats were named after people that are special to the club, due to their contributions and their family’s contributions to the club over many years – as oarswomen, oarsmen, officers, supporters and trainers,” said club Chairperson Steven Blennerhassett.

“These boats will go on to serve the current and future generations of Fossa oarswomen and oarsmen.”

The five boats were named Kathleen, Margaret, Maura, Nell and Raymond and were blessed by Fr. Niall Geaney, the Parish Priest in Fossa.

The five boats were named after:

The late Kathleen Fleming. The Fleming

family have had a great involvement with the rowing club for many years and three of Kathleen’s sons Michael, Liam and Jimmy were in the five in a row winning Senior crew in 1971.

Kathleen O’Sullivan was a fantastic oarswoman for many years. She went onto to serve as a distinguished officer of the club, organising the successful Fashion Shows in the Hotel Europe for many years.

Kathleen Griffin has a very special involvement with the club through the Griffin and Allman families over the years.

Margaret Daly, whose family has the one of the largest collections of rowing med-

als of any family from all the races they have won.

Maura Talbot (a cousin of Margaret’s) was part of the Fossa Senior Ladies Sixes winning crew of 1955. The Talbot family are one of the families heavily involved with the club since it began in 1893.

The late Nell O’Leary and her husband John were and are huge supporters of Fossa Rowing club and Killarney Regatta. John continues as President of Killarney Regatta.

The late Nellie Myers in the same 1955 winning Ladies crew as Maura. Her husband Sean is best known recently for producing the book “Fossa Rowing Club – A Century of History”

The late Nellie Leahy and her husband Ned and their families made huge contributions to the club over many years.

Raymond Coffey won many races with Fossa, but is best known nowadays for training and coxing many crews.

Fr Niall Geaney PP Fossa who blessed ‘Nell’ in memory of Nellie Myers, Nell O’Leary and Nell Leahy with Sean,

Photo by Michelle Cooper Galvin

All creatures great and small...5th and 6th class of Barraduff National School, who were National Winners of the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) Education Sustainable Development Competition. Their prize included a nature camp with the Killarney National Park Education Centre exploring the plants, mammals, and ecology of the park, through a variety of games and fun activities. Included are School Principal, Claire O'Halloran, third left, Teacher Shane Cullen, fourth left, Conservation Ranger, Pádraig O'Sullivan, second left, and Killarney National Park Education Officers, Tara Buckley, left and Chris Barron, right. Photo: Valerie O'Sulli

Fr Niall Geaney PP Fossa who blessed the new traning boat named Raymond after Raymond Coffey who was there with his family Alison, Kieran, Tom, Siobhan, Fiona, Conor, Katherine, Orla, Brid, Reanne, Saoirse, Aisling, Darragh and Cathal at the celebration and blessing of the five new boats at Fossa Rowing Club, Old Church Fossa on Sunday. Photo by Michelle Cooper Galvin

WHAT’S ON

School's out for summer

Two of Killarney’s secondary schools celebrated the year-end this week with annual awards and graduation ceremonies.

On Wednesday St. Brigid’s held its annual awards day.

“ This special occasion allows the entire school community to come together to reward those students who have gone above and beyond in their contribution to school life, “ said acting PRO Jerimiah Lyons.

“Amongst the different accolades given to students were awards for outstanding contribution to school spirit, contribu-

tion to the Catholic ethos of the school, excellence in various sports including camogie, badminton, basketball, volleyball and football, participation in the various ‘flag’ groups such as the Amber Flag, Yellow Flag and Gaelbhratach, debating, enterprise, music and choir to name but a few.”

On Monday St Brendan’s College held its annual Leaving Certificate Graduation and Mass in the school.

Darragh O’Connell, Gearoid Healy, Callum Cronin, Liam O’Donoghue and Evan Keogh Kenneally at the Leaving Certificate Graduation Mass in St Brendan’s College Killarney on Monday. Photo by Michelle Cooper Galvin

David O’Sullivan, John O’Grady and Oran Daly with teacher Micheal Ó Dubháin at the Leaving Certificate Graduation Mass in St Brendan’s College Killarney on Monday. Photo by Michelle Cooper Galvin

St Brigid's CEIST Award winner Jessica Fuller with her parents.

Con Stack with his parents Con and Marie, brother Daithí and sister Eva at the Leaving Certificate Graduation Mass in St Brendan’s College Killarney on Monday. Photo by Michelle Cooper Galvin

Andrea Murphy, Orla Benson Award winner, with Ms Moore, Ms Dowling and guest speaker Olivia Rose at St Brigid's on Wednesday.

Andrea Murphy, Orla Benson Award winner, with her parents at St Brigid's on Wednesday.

Cathal Coffey with Aoife and Aising at the Leaving Certificate Graduation Mass in St Brendan’s College Killarney on Monday. Photo by Michelle Cooper Galvin

T J Healy, Kieran Nagle, Bobby Gallivan, Callum McCarthy and Emmett Spillane at the Leaving Certificate Graduation Mass in St Brendan’s College Killarney on Monday. Photo by Michelle Cooper Galvin

Liebherr Scholarship Programme

Apply Now - Closing 31st May

Liebherr Scholarship Programme 2024

Leaving Certificate students and current third-level degree students are now invited to apply for the Liebherr Scholarship Programme. Qualifying courses include mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, structural engineering, mechatronics, automation, business information systems, computer science, software development, and data analytics

Benefits

Scholarship recipients will have their college fees paid for the duration of their course and will have the additional benefits of being able to complete work experience during summer vacations and college placements throughout the course terms. The Liebherr Scholarship Programme provides a unique opportunity for recent Leaving Certificate students and existing college students to gain a 3rd level qualification, practical experience and the opportunity to continue employment with Liebherr on graduation.

How to apply

Interested candidates should apply by email to scholarshiprecruit.lcc@liebherr.com.

Applicants should include a CV detailing Leaving Certificate/Junior Certificate/college projects and/or results and a cover letter explaining why they have chosen

their specific career path. In the case of Leaving Certificate applicants, a copy of their completed CAO form showing their choice of course should be included.

The closing date is Friday the 31st of May 2024

To find out more and discover career opportunities with Liebherr, find Liebherr Container Cranes on LinkedIn.

Scholarship recipients enjoy

- Course fees paid

- Summer work

- Work placements

- Individual mentoring

- Graduate positions

TICKETS SELLING FAST

SATURDAY, JUNE 1ST

Derry & Rosie 1PM - 3PM RAY K 3PM - 5PM

THE RISING 5PM - 7PM

RUAILE BUAILE

7PM - 9PM

CHASING

ABBEY

9PM - 10PM+

SUNDAY, JUNE 2ND

SPARKLE 4PM - 6PM

RIFF SHOP

6PM - 8PM

Super Céilí

8PM - 10PM

PAINT LIKE A PRO: HOW TO ADD COLOUR TO YOUR GARDEN WITH A PAINTED FENCE

| By Tony Griffin Manager, Pat McDonnell Paints – Tralee

Is your garden fence looking worse for wear after winter? A fresh coat of paint can transform it in no time. Read on for a handy step-by-step guide on how to give your fence a facelift.

STEP 1: CHECK THE WEATHER

It’s important that your fence is fully dry so time your project for dry and warm weather. In the highly unlikely event of Irish weather exceeding 30 degrees, avoid painting as this can lead to bubbling and blistering.

STEP 2: FIX

Before painting, inspect your fence and repair/replace any broken panels.

STEP 3: CLEAN

Hose down the fence and then tackle any remaining spots of mould or debris with a hard-bristled brush (a decking brush would do perfectly). If, after all this, your fence still has moss, dirt or algae, wash it down with Farbex Exterior Fungicidal Wash. Wait until fully dry.

STEP 4: PREP

Protect any surfaces you don’t want to get paint on. Trim, tie back or cover nearby plants. Move garden furniture out of the way. Lay a dust sheet/card on the ground. Remove any decorations hanging on the fence.

STEP 5: PRIME

Tip: Remember to always stir paint for a

minute or so before use.

If your fence is not currently painted, you will need to prime it first. This helps strengthen the bond between the wood and paint, ensuring a more durable and attractive finish.

If you are working on a previously painted fence, then you can simply spot-prime any bare patches. Check the manufacturer’s instructions to find out how much drying time is needed before moving on to the topcoat.

STEP 6: CHOOSE YOUR PRODUCT

Depending on the colour and finish you want to achieve, Pat McDonnell Paints has a wide range of products available to suit all tastes.

For a quality paint that can be used as both primer and a topcoat, we recommend Ralston 3-in-1 Aqua Satin. Ideal for both painted and unpainted fences, this

TOOLS FOR THE JOB:

product can be tinted to any colour of your choosing.

Cuprinol 5-Year Ducksback offers a wide range of attractive ready-made colours suitable for use on fences. This product colours and weatherproofs fences for up to five years.

Osmo Country Shades is an excellent product that doesn’t require priming and is available in 120 shades inspired by nature.

STEP 7: PAINT

Regardless of whatever product you’re using, the same basic painting techniques will apply. Focus on one panel at a time; working in horizontal or vertical strokes depending on its orientation. Follow the direction of the timber grain to ensure a smooth, professional finish. Always start from the top and work your way down so that you can catch any drips.

• Your choice of paint such as Ralston 3-in-1 Aqua Satin, Cuprinol 5-Year Ducksback or Osmo Country Shades

A Fairytale in Doolin

Catherine & Damien

tie the knot by the sea

WEDDING OF THE WEEK

Their love story began in a rather unassuming way – a shared French class while Catherine was repeating her Leaving Cert at St. Brendan's College in 2011. Sparks didn't fly then, but fate had a different plan. It wasn't until a chance encounter outside McSorley's in November 2017 that a simple offer from Damien to walk Catherine home ignited the flame.

Fast forward to August 2022, their love story took a thrilling turn during a romantic trip to Bali. Damien, with the help of a driver named Benny, pulled-off a breathtaking proposal at a stunning viewpoint. Luckily, Benny eventually understood the cue and left the couple to their moment of magic.

County Clare and the Corpus Christi Church in Lisdoonvarna provided a breathtaking backdrop for Catherine and Damien's heartfelt ceremony last week. Officiated by Fr. Larry Kelly, the service resonated with love and laughter, perfectly setting the tone for the joyous celebration to follow.

Soprano Sharon Lyons and her choir added a touch of ethereal beauty as they guided Catherine down the aisle with a heartfelt rendition of "Bless The Broken Road." A personal highlight for Catherine was a beautiful poem written and recited by her aunt Patricia.

The bride and groom ensured their guests were never left wanting for entertainment. A magician and mind reader during the drinks reception kept everyone on their toes. The evening entertainment took things to a whole new level!

Pat Fitz and his band kept the dance floor lively, culminating in a delightful surprise – singing waiters! The initial shock of a dramatic "fall" and a name mix-up quickly dissolved into laughter as the waiters broke into joyous song, creating an unforgettable memory for all present.

A surprise performance by Steve, lead singer of the popular wedding band "Flog The Dog," added an extra layer of fun to the evening. Though Steve was initially a guest, Catherine and Damien managed to convince him to share his musical talents in the residents' bar, an epic performance

that is still being talked about a week on. Hotel Doolin, with its charming barnstyle venue, captivated the hearts of the couple and their guests. It became not just a reception space, but the heart of their wedding the whole weekend. Here, amidst exposed beams and rustic charm, the couple extended the celebrations with a BBQ on the second day, followed by lively entertainment from a band and DJ.

Bridesmaids Rachael O'Connell, Alice Culloty, Eloise Mangan, and Cliona Brown were on hand to make sure Catherine’s special day went down without an issue while groomsmen Gavin O'Leary, Noel Duggan, James Devane, and Ian O'Leary brought plenty of craic to the occasion. It was commented that page boy Milo and flower girl Hanóra up-staged all the adults on the day with their style and enthusiasm.

Catherine's parents, James and Margaret Casey, beamed with pride all weekend. James, a local taxi driver for Euro Taxis, and Margaret, a bed and breakfast owner, have always been a pillar of support for the couple.

Damien's parents, Noreen and Kevin O'Leary, shared the joy. Noreen, a special needs assistant in The Mon, and Kevin, who works with Coffey's Construction, were equally thrilled to witness the couples happiness.

The foundations of marriage may have been laid in Clare last week but the couple can also look forward to the foundations of their new home being poured soon as the couple recently secured planning permission for their dream home in Knocklebede, Kilcummin.

As they embark on a honeymoon adventure to South Africa later this summer, they couple with them the warmth and joy of their stunning wedding weekend. Reflecting on her big day Catherine said: "Marrying my best friend on a day overflowing with love and laughter was the happiest moment of my life”, while newly wedded husband Damien said “It was an unforgettable weekend in Doolin – great craic, perfect weather surrounded by family and friends, and topped off by marrying the love of my life."

OUT & ABOUT

Photographer Anastasiia goes Out and About for Killarney Advertiser

The Killarney Advertiser is pleased to announce that Anastasiia Garbera has joined the team.

Anastasiia is a photographer from Ukraine. She has been living in Killarney for nearly two years and is trying to establish a freelance photography business.

“I love my job. I’ve been shooting for 11 years. I adore photography and connect my life with it. The best thing for me is to show girls and families, brides how beautiful they are. I think it’s my main mission. No need to be a model. We are all beautiful and special. You just need to build more self-confidence. And be sure, I will help you with it.”

Keep an eye out for Anastasiia as she goes Out and About for The Killarney Advertiser.

If you are organising an event and need a photographer email info@killarneyadvertiser.ie for more details.

ALL STYLE: Nataly Rudenko enjoying a walk through town last Sunday.

Target practice: Ray Walsh of 'Go Beyond' ready for a day of archery.

Noely from the Wicked Shop soaking up the sunshine.

Kathleen McAuliffe keeping locals and visitors refreshed at the Deenagh Lodge Cafe in Knockreer.

MOTHER AND DAUGHTER: Ashley McKeon and Dee-Ann Hermiston from Canda exploring the park.

William Browne out for a walk with his dogs Ivey and Keela.

Padraig and Erica Dundon taking a break from the hustle and bustle of the Bus Station Cafe.

PHOTOS: ANASTASIIA HARBERA

Natalia and Kristina enjoying the fine weather and a walk in the park.

Oonagh chilling at Killarney House and Gardens last week.

Daria enjoying a coffee and watching the world go by at Luna Cafe

THE KILLARNEY FRAMER: John Treloar stepping outside his shop on New St.

PITSTOP: Denis O' Brien resting on a Port Rd bench after a nice walk.

Halina from 3 Lakes Hostel enjoying a cycle around the Killarney National Park.

Donal visiting Killarney from Wexford last week.

The Lake Hotel’s Tamara is awarded Munster’s Young Chef of the Year

The Lake Hotel are celebrating the success of their colleague Tamara Jelača, who has been awarded Munster’s Young Chef of the Year .

The prestigious YesChef awards celebrate the commitment and dedication of the hospitality industry in Ireland to providing simply outstanding culinary experiences.

The awards ceremony took place in the Fairways Hotel in Dundalk on last week, following a rigorous inspection earlier in the year.

A native of Serbia, Tamara learned her craft in her home country and then gained a wealth of experience in Montenegro and Dubrovnik before moving to Ireland and joining the team at The Lake Hotel.

Now in her second season at The Lake Hotel, Tamara works in the hotel’s Castlelough Restaurant kitchen as Chef de Partie under the expert guidance of multi-award-winning Executive Chef Noel

Enright.

On the night of inspection, Tamara impressed the judges with a Goats Cheese Amuse Bouche, a Shellfish Starter Plate, succulent Duck for Mains, and a delectable Chocolate Souffle for Dessert. Showcasing her diverse skillset across all courses, Tamara also paired wines beautifully with each course and met with the judges to elaborate on her inspiration and technique for each dish.

“We are delighted to see Tamara awarded this highly coveted accolade. She is exceptionally talented and has a very bright future ahead of her, we’re so fortunate to have her on our team, her skills certainly amplify the overall dining experience for our guests,” said Enright.

Speaking at the awards ceremony Shane Smith, Managing Director of NI Media said; “We take pride in our programme and every year every restaurant is inspected by culinary experts. If you win an award in the YesChef Awards, you know it’s completely on merit.”

Disability toilets for library

Works to build new toilet facilities for people with disabilities should commence later this year.

Cllr Marie Moloney tabled a motion at a recent Kerry County Council meeting. She said: “Application has been made for funding to the Department. As soon as the funding is approved, work will commence on the provision of Disabled Toilet Facilities.

“While ramps are installed for accessi-

bility, it is unacceptable that any public building be without disabled toilet facilities in this day and age.

“I am aware of several people with a disability who constantly use the services of the Library and are very happy with the staff and the services that Killarney Library offers but are disappointed at the lack of disabled toilets.”

“I will be keeping the pressure on to have these facilities provided as soon as possible.”

Tamara being presented her award by John Conroy of Flogas and Shane Smith of NI Media.

• THE CANDIDATES

• Abdul Kadir, Kamaruzzaman (Non-Party)

• Cronin, Brendan (Non-Party)

• Grady, Martin (Non-Party)

• Griffin, Diarmaid (Green Party)

• Healy, Dermot (Fine Gael)

• Healy-Rae, Maura (Non-Party)

• Kelleher, Niall (Fianna Fáil)

• Kenneally, Caroline (Sinn Féin)

• Krasnenkova, Natalia (Non-Party)

KILLARNEY

ELECTORL AREA

KILLARNEY

ELECTORAL AREA

7 SEATS

The electoral divisions of Aghadoe, Aglish, Ballyhar, Brewsterfield, Clydagh, Coolies, Doorcarrig, Flesk, Headfort, Kilbonane, Kilcummin, Killarney Rural, Killarney Urban, Knocknahoe, Lahard, Muckross, Rathmore and Rockfield.

• Leen, William (Non-Party)

• Mahmud, Iqbal (Non-Party)

• McGuckin, Diarmuid (Non-Party)

• Moloney, Marie (Labour)

• O’Callaghan, Niall Botty (Non-Party)

• O’Connor, Alan (The Irish People)

• O’Donoghue, John (Kerry Independent Alliance)

• Switzer, Damien (Sinn Féin)

• HOW OFTEN ARE LOCAL ELECTIONS HELD? Local Government Elections are held every 5 years.

• WHO CAN VOTE?

Every person over 18 years whose name is included in the electoral register is entitled to vote in the local area in which s/he lives. It is not necessary to be an Irish citizen to vote in a Local Election. Therefore many migrants and people from new communities can vote in local elections.

WHO

CAN BE ELECTED?

Persons over 18 years of age who are registered voters are eligible for election to Local Government except persons who are Government Ministers, Ministers of State, Members of the Gardai and the Defence Forces and certain groups of public employees. The grounds for disqualification include failure to pay money due to a local authority and certain court convictions and prison sentences.

HOW DOES IT ALL WORK?

There are 31 Local Government Authorities in Ireland. In total there are 137 electoral areas in Ireland and each of them elects a number of Councillors. The number of County and City Councillors to be elected is 949.

WHAT DO OUR LOCAL COUNSELLORS DO?

• Adopt the annual budget with democratic accountability for all expenditure by the local authority

• Appointment, suspension or removal of CEO - oversight and monitoring of work of CEO

• Adoption of integrated local economic and community development plans and service delivery plans

• Greater decision-making role in local enterprise and economic development in local and community development activities

• Substantial range of functions at district level on a fully devolved basis including areas such as planning, roads, traffic, housing, environmental services, recreation, amenity and community development; citizen/community engagement

2024 LOCAL ELECTION KILLARNEY ADVERTISER FEATURE

Ahead of next Friday’s local elections we take a look at the candidates running for the Killarney Municipal District.

YOUR CANDIDATES

The Killarney Advertiser recently conducted a local survey ahead of the local elections on June 7th. The idea was to gather insights on a range of issues directly impacting our readers' lives.

In less than a year, Ireland will be facing into one of the most divisive general elections in recent times. The current coalition parties Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and the Green Party will be looking to fight off a Sinn Féin challenge driven by the slogan ‘It's time for change’. Are people looking for change, or by and large, are people happy with the status quo?

Almost half (46%) of respondents to our survey stated that a candidate’s political affiliation is important to them in terms of how they will vote in the local elections which means political parties will be looking towards the local elections in two weeks’ time to get an indication as to whichway the electorate is leaning.

LOCALS ARE ENGAGED

Our survey suggests that Killarney residents are engaged with the upcoming local elections and that the runners, by and large, have done a good job of getting their message across to locals. 93% say they intend using their vote, while 72% saying they are happy with the candidate pool. When asked if they felt local elected representatives do a good job of communicating with residents, the majority (64%) of respondents were happy with communication up to now.

In general, our findings show that the vast majority (75%) of locals are satisfied with the quality of life in Killarney. Environment & sustainability, schools & education and community services were returned as the most positive aspects of

Killarney has its say on town issues

our community.

However, a number of key local concerns did arise. More than half (56%) of locals highlighted ‘safety and security’ as a key improvement that needed to be made locally. Only the issue of healthcare (75%) ranked higher, while housing was the third most important issue for respondents (53%).

HEALTHCARE

Healthcare arose as the number one issue according to our survey, with over three quarters of respondents expressing their concern around lack of services. When asked what specific healthcare services are most needed locally, urgent care services (43%), GP services (30%) and mental health services (17%) made up the majority of responses.

Feedback from the survey included:

“A minor injuries clinic in Killarney is imperative, to cut down waiting times in A&E in Tralee and to cut down on GP waiting times”

With another stating:

“No addiction services in town, no minor injury clinic in town, no services for

young adults with mental health problems”

SAFETY

& SECURITY

As highlighted above, more than half (56%) of all locals highlighted ‘safety and security’ as a key concern. When asked personally, how safe they felt in town, 33% of respondents said they feel somewhat, or very unsafe. 37% of respondents said they have witnessed or been a victim of crime in the past five years. We asked the same cohort what sort of crimes they have witnessed or been a victim of. The top three types of crimes reported in the survey can be broadly categorised as robbery/theft, fighting/assaults and vandalism. There has been a spate of break-ins and reports of robberies across Killarney and indeed Kerry since the start of the year. In early February Gardaí issued a warning to locals to make sure their cars and homes are fully secure at night as a gang of thieves were believed to be responsible for a number of thefts and breakins. The same gang are suspected to be responsible for two vehicle thefts taken

from outside a property in Aghadoe, CCTV footage circulated online showed numerous other attempts to break-in to cars in the area on the same night. There is no doubt, safety concerns are real, particularly amongst females. The attack and mugging of a tourist in her 80’s a few weeks ago caused widespread anger locally and although a man has since been charged with that incident, feedback from our survey suggests locals want more to be done.

“At this stage public safety is an issue. It is affecting the whole town. We need more security services,” one respondent said.

While another one added:

“Safety is key…my parents used go into town 3 or 4 times a week and have stopped now as they don't feel safe anymore”

HOUSING

Probably not surprising given the national crisis, housing is another key sticking point for locals. Responses to our survey can be segmented by homeowners (65%) and renters (23%). A further

12% selected ‘other’, which may account for nesters (people still living in the family home) and unique circumstances. 45% of all responses are either dissatisfied or very dissatisfied with housing options in Killarney, but when you remove the homeowners this jumps to 65%. We also asked our readers how easy it is to find a place to live in Killarney that fits your budget, and 84% said they find it difficult or very difficult. These findings show real challenges with housing supply locally, which in turn is driving up costs for both buyers and renters. In good news for local house-hunters, An Bord Pleanála upheld a planning decision granted by Kerry County Council last October to KPH, a Kenmare-based construction company allowing it to go ahead with the 249-house development on Park Road. The development will bring to market a range of 2 - 4 bedroom dwellings along with apartments, a creche and play faculties to market and the news was warmly welcomed by several local councillors including Niall Kelleher, Martin Grady and Maura Healy Rae. While broadly welcoming the development Sinn Fein candidate Damien Switzer urged caution, saying the new houses should not fall into the hands of private landlords.

OTHER KEY FINDINGS

Roads and traffic were other key concerns highlighted in our open-ended questions with one person commenting: “Pressure needs to be sustained on central government to progress the proposed Farranfore bypass and Eastern link road (Lissivigeen to Muckross). Without this the town is coming to a standstill in terms of traffic flow and hampering economic activity in the town, especially at weekends and during the tourist season.”

61% of people are satisfied with the availability of the local business offering,

LOCAL ELECTION 2024

but when asked what type of new businesses would they like to see open, retail, healthcare and recreational related businesses would be most welcomed. A number of responses to our survey highlighted a lack of things for children to do with one respondent saying: “It would be very beneficial to Killarney if there was more availability for activities for young people to do such as bowling or arcades or crazy golf. Compared to other cities around the world activities for families are very limited. We have fabulous national parks and walks but a lot of the time the weather is not very nice here so we need some indoor activities.”

When it came to the availability of job opportunities, response were split 50/50. Healthcare, industrial/manufacturing educational and IT service jobs were the most sought-after employment opportunities. 67% of respondents are satisfied with local education services although more crèche facilities was highlighted by numerous locals.

“Lack of childcare facilities for babies in particular, I have twins that are 4 months old and cannot get them into a crèche until September 2025 at the earliest,” one person commented 87% of respondents say environmental protection is somewhat or very important to them while almost 90% said

they would like to see the town building on the success of the Killarney Coffee Cup Project and develop more sustainable community initiatives.

CONCLUSION

Despite concerns around healthcare access, housing affordability, and public safety, the Killarney Advertiser survey paints a picture of a town with a strong sense of community. Residents appreciate the sustainable initiatives, educational opportunities, and overall community services being provided but elected counsellors will have plenty to sink their teeth into after June 7th to further enhance the quality of life for all residents in town.

YOUR CANDIDATES

Maura Healy-Rae

ADDRESS: Kilgarvan, Kerry

AGE: 33

OCCUPATION: Teacher and public representative.

PARTY: Independent, non-party

I have served on Kerry County Council since March, 2016. In that time I believe I have been a consistent and hard-working public representative for the Killarney Municipal District. I am proud to stand as a truly independent candidate where I can speak on behalf of the people’s agenda and not of a political party agenda. I believe it is essential that the Killarney Municipal District has a strong female voice. I am the youngest candidate running in the Killarney District, and I believe I am best placed to represent the concerns and obstacles facing our younger generations. I am extremely proud of the area I have represented over the last eight years, I am acutely aware of the issues that it faces and respectfully ask for the chance to continue to work on and resolve these challenges.

Housing

Housing continues to be one of the biggest issues facing our area despite the fact that there has been positive developments in Killarney and Barraduff.

There is substantial need for more social housing to address the waiting list which now has in excess of 1,500 applicants. Vacant and void properties need to be brought back into use. Transfer applications need to be dealt with in a timely manner. More rural cottages need to be built by the local authority for people who may have a site available to them but would struggle to obtain a mortgage.

Furthermore, affordable housing development needs to take place so that families and single people can have a realistic opportunity of purchasing a home. I have time and time again campaigned for St. Finians landbank to be used for

Roads

I have assisted many people in making applications for the Local Improvement and Community Involvement Schemes. Furthermore, I have requested increased funding for such schemes in order to deal with the long waiting lists.

Traffic congestion continues to be an issue facing Killarney town. Following many representations, funding of €750,000 has been made available from the TII which will allow for the preferred route for the Kerry-Cork bypass to be selected in 2024.

I have continually highlighted the need for safety improvement works to be carried out along the N22, at Poulgorm junction, Glenflesk Village, Coolcaslagh

social and affordable housing development. I want to continue my work in this regard.

I am very active in assisting elderly people and people with disabilities to make applications for housing grants to make their homes more suitable for their needs.

junction, Ballycasheen junction, Cleeney Roundabout and Madams Hill.

I have continuously highlighted the need for a multi-storey car park for Killarney. This would future proof the parking needs of the town.

I have been very active in the area of increasing safety at our schools making representations for and bringing deputations from different schools including Fossa National School where works are due to begin later this year and Two Mile National School where phase 1 of safety works will also be completed this year. Previously, I allocated a substantial amount of money for the provision of speed indicator lights at Knockanes National School.

I am a strong advocate for people being allowed to build on family owned land or on a site they could obtain in the area they are from. Difficulties are posed in this regard due to the local area clause and in areas deemed to be under significant urban influence in the rural settlement policy.

I have also consistently raised the issue where the TII object to people seeking planning permission who want to exit onto a national primary or secondary route despite there already being an existing entrance.

Furthermore, I have also continually

Inward Migration

The massive influx of inward migration of refugees and asylum seekers into our towns has impacted medical, education and social welfare services. It is more attractive for landlords to rent to Ukrainians as they get €800 a month tax free, I believe the same concessions should be given to all who want to rent a home. We don’t even have a homeless centre now in Killarney to accommodate people who cannot get a house, in fact some are waiting up to 15 years in Killarney, 37% of hospitality beds are being taken out of availability, many restaurants, cafes and pubs have already closed. I have called on the Government to discontinue the policy of using tourist accommodation

Environment Planning

Protecting the environment is of paramount importance.

To help eliminate the adverse affects the increased deer population is having in Killarney National Park, I recently requested that the government would provide funding to employ a deer manager and deer stalkers. The deer population must be controlled to protect woodland vegetation and the Island of Innisfallen. Furthermore, proper deer management will help decrease the number of accidents occurring on our roads.

Monitoring the water quality of the lakes

highlighted the unfairness where people exiting onto a national road from a private road are being turned down for planning whereas those exiting from a public road are getting approved.

I am totally opposed to the Residential Zoned Land Tax where working farms will be taxed from February next year; this government introduced policy will affect the livelihoods of farmers.

The Local Area Plan will be one of the main body of works for the next council to complete and will determine the planning and development of the Killarney Municipal District for the next number of years. I have the experience to contribute to this process effectively.

to house refugees and asylum seekers as this policy has resulted in less footfall in our towns and villages and in turn less revenue for businesses, also I have continuously highlighted that self-catering must be allowed to continue to provide their services and not be subjected to over bearing enforcement action from the local authority. Employment is critical when it comes to retaining people in rural counties such as Kerry. The cost of doing business has increased substantially with the cost of living crisis and increased rates for businesses, I have requested a rates waiver for businesses to avoid more small businesses closing down.

is also crucial and I have requested that Kerry County Council would publish the Lough Leane report for 2023.

I have also consistently campaigned that estates such as Mountain View, Kilcummin be connected to the new Sewerage scheme. Similarly, in trying to progress the connection of Birchhill estate and the Old Killarney Village, I have continually called on the government to provide the necessary funding.

The work of our volunteers in the Killarney Looking Good committee and Tidy Town groups must be commended.

HEALY-RAE Maura Independant

THESE ARE SOME OF THE ISSUES I FEEL ARE IMPORTANT IN OUR AREA

• HEALTH

• HOUSING

• INWARD MIGRATION CONTROL

• BUSINESS AND HOSPITALITY

• AGRICULTURE AND THE ENVIRONMENT

• ROADS (LIS SCHEMES)

• PLANNING

• ISSUES FACING YOUNG PEOPLE

• SCHOOL SAFETY

• PUBLIC LIGHTING

• FLOODING

Niall Kelleher

ADDRESS: Knockanes, Glenflesk

AGE: 38

OCCUPATION: Local Representative & Businessman

PARTY: Fianna Fáil

Born in Rathmore and now living in Glenflesk, while working in Killarney I feel I am truly representative of the entire Killarney Municipal District. It has been a great honour to represent the people of this area for the last 10 years. I have had the privilege of being Mayor of the Killarney Municipal District on three occasions and I was honoured to be elected Mayor of Kerry in 2019. I have worked hard over the last ten years to deliver for my constituents and for the wider Kerry community. I was delighted to serve as president of Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce and as chairman of the Christmas in Killarney festival. As an organic farmer I enjoy being outdoors working with animals and working to develop the farm in a sustainable and regenerative way. I enjoy live music and we are lucky here in Killarney to have a wonderful venue like the INEC attracting top acts throughout the year.

Health

A patient-first approach is a necessary requirement in our health service and that is why I have already engaged with senior HSE Forum officials about the urgent need for a properly resourced minor injuries clinic in Killarney to take pressure off our already over-stretched A&E unit at Kerry University Hospital. I will continue to engage with the HSE until an acceptable solution is found to

Housing

Over the past 10 years, I have lobbied for the urgent need for social and affordable housing in the area as well as greater assistance for first time buyers.

While I feel some progress has been made, rising costs means there is still a huge need for more affordable housing throughout the County. I will continue to lobby on the urgency surrounding this and will work closely with my colleagues

accommodate the need for this service, which will be invaluable to Killarney and its surrounding areas.

In tandem with this, it is essential that effective primary care centres are established in Killarney and Rathmore - with the main priority being putting the patient first.

Our elderly community are our most valued and that is why further investment is needed to provide for more community services and home help in the rea.

to ensure Killarney and Kerry’s housing situation becomes a priority and that supply is increased across all areas.

The introduction of the Vacant Property Grant is one I welcome and hope will be a great boost in improving the current housing situation. There is a considerable number of vacant properties across the county and this scheme is a real incentive in boosting the number of units available to those looking to access housing.

I will seek the required funding for our local and regional roads to improve road surfaces and improve all dangerous junctions to ensure road safety.

One life lost on our roads is one life too many. That is why proper investment in our roads network is vital and a priority for me.

I will work alongside Kerry County Council and Transport Infrastructure Ireland to expedite any current plans for the im-

provement of the road network across the Killarney Municipal District. Roads funding is not just one round of funding - it must be continuous to ensure the safe upkeep and maintenance of our vast roads network in the county. The continuation of more funding to be made available through the local improvement scheme is top of my list to improve secondary roads as well as funding to maintain our famous Killarney laneways.

Rural Communities

I will continue to seek investment into rural communities such as Rathmore, Barraduff, Glenflesk and Kilcummin for the improvement of the facilities and amenities such as playgrounds, street scapes etc.

Our small towns and villages are the heartbeat of our county and as such,

Urban Development Roads

need facilities to ensure they thrive into the future.

These rural areas need to be further developed and enhanced. There is huge support for investment into rural communities and ensuring the funding is there and the work and maintenance is carried out is vitally important for every citizen of the county.

The Urban Regeneration and Development Fund invests in the development of the town. Killarney, as a major tourist hub in Ireland, needs more investment to ensure that the tourism industry is protected for the generations ahead.

I will continue to lobby that Killarney vitally needs this funding as it has been the shining star in Ireland’s tourism in-

dustry. There is no end of projects that this investment could be vital for, such as the development of the Aras Phadraig site and other sites across the town as well as the improvement and updating of our streets-scapes and other initiatives. There is an outstanding level of goodwill in Killarney, but the necessary funding is needed to bring to fruition the great plans of the community.

ADDRESS: Fossa

AGE: 38

Diarmaid Griffin

OCCUPATION: Tour Guide

PARTY: Green Party/Comhaontas Glas

I am a Tour Guide from Fossa, Killarney. The natural environment has been close to my heart since childhoood, having grown up in the rural townland of Barleymount. After attending St. Brendan’s Secondary School, I enrolled in an Environmental Sciences degree course in UCC, majoring in Geography. I graduated in 2008 amidst a global recession, which meant an embargo on public jobs and less employment opportunities. However, I worked as a volunteer with NPWS staff on deer management and rhododendron clearance projects in Killarney National Park. Since then, I have worked as a Tree Surgeon, Outdoor Educator, and Tour Guide. The beautiful environment of Killarney and its environs is still my inspiration to campaign on green issues and I believe Killarney needs a green voice at the council table.

Killarney has been visited by millions of people from all over the world and has left a lasting and positive impression.

Some visitors have had their words immortalised in song and poetry such as Edmund Falconer’s lyrics ‘Angels fold their wings and rest, In that Eden of the west, Beauty’s home, Killarney, Ever fair Killarney.'

Poets Lord Alfred Tennyson, Wordsworth and Percy Bysshe Shelley also were inspired by our beautiful place in the world. Thankfully that continues today, but as the town grows, our beautiful and natural environment comes under increasing pressure and so does the sustainability of our number one industry.

Threats to tourism include traffic con-

Being a successful tourist destination and a vibrant town, Killarney suffers from traffic jams on a daily basis throughout the year.

This needs to be addressed now. The problem will only become worse and will have an impact on our desirability as a destination. Furthermore, traffic congestion is costing us money, time, and air quality that we can ill afford. On the doorsteps, during my campaign, this issue came up time and time again. Along with it came the issue of accessibility and safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and wheelchair users. The two are linked and can be resolved with adequate footpaths, cycle lanes, and ramps in all neighbourhoods. Proper town planning would ensure people can access their workplaces, schools, and shops without

gestion, water quality, and erosion of community (with it, that warm and personal welcome that the locals are known for.) Sustainable Tourism is a priority of mine as a Councillor for Killarney Local Area. I will commit to it being Ever Fair in the work I do.

having to rely on the car every time. A stark example is the lack of a footpath in Kilcummin village to a nearby housing estate. We need joined up thinking at the council table and joined up transport options on the ground. Killarney Bus and Rail Station need to be combined as one transport hub.

Nurture a Sense of Community

Killarney has a great sense of place and still has a strong sense of community in places.

However, we need more community places and more public spaces. The town has fewer community halls per capita, than most parishes and villages and this is not good for our sense of community. Although we have many restaurants, bars, and niteclubs, we have no farmer’s market. Although we have plenty of social outlets for people wanting to drink, we have few places for young and old who wish to socialise in another way.

This is particularly important these days as technology erodes the art of conversation and face to face interactions. It is particularly important in the sense of belonging that we all crave and especially for anyone new to the town. I want people living in Killarney, Rathmore, Barraduff, Fossa, and Kilcummin to feel part of the community and help to keep it a safe place to visit, socialise in and work in. As a Councillor, cohesion in the community will be of upmost importance and I will continue to support community groups such as Killarney Tidy Towns and Killarney Mountain Meitheal.

Improve Water Quality

It happens every year, usually after a spell of dry and sunny weather in the summer.

Algal bloom has ben an issue on Lough Leane since I was born. In fact, in 1985 the bays of our lower lake resembled pea soup. I work on the lower lake as a Boat Driver and Tour Guide and I enjoy showcasing the waters to our visitors. However, I worry that with increased pressure on our waste water treatment plant in the demesne will reach a tipping point and nitrogen levels will again go beyond what is safe. I am determined to address this problem as an elected councillor. I was advised by the Environmental Protection Agency to visit Killarney Waste Water Treatment Plant to see

firsthand the challenges that they face. I am awaiting a tour of the plant and look forward to discussing the issue and finding a solution to this ongoing problem. Our wildlife, our tourism, and our health depend on a long-term solution.

Build A Progressive Town

Last July, Killarney became the first town to become single-use coffee cup free and the project is continuing to flourish.

I was delighted to see this project go from strength to strength from its inception by local business owners. The benefits are threefold: Cost saving to café owners who no longer buy disposable cups, a greener image for the town of Killarney, and less litter and waste on our streets, in our park and in our waterways.

One of the sparks that lit this project was the news that a ‘latté levy’ was coming from government to reduce the amount of waste being generated. Killarney took the initiative and those individuals are blazing the trail of sustainability for our town. Such is the success of the Killarney Coffee Cup Project that government has provided funds to collate the findings from the project and provide that to other towns and communities so that they may follow suit. If I am elected, I will progress the town further towards a clean, green and sustainable future.

DIARMAID GRIFFIN

Marie Moloney

ADDRESS: Coolick, Kilcummin, Killarney

AGE: 60

OCCUPATION: Councillor & Admin Assistant SIPTU

PARTY: Labour

I have worked in Politics both locally and nationally for over 32 years. I have an extensive knowledge of such issues as Social Welfare, Medical Cards, Housing, Disability Services along with all the Council issues that affect our people and our communities. My first priority will always be to help people in whatever way I can to make life better and easier for them. Many only need advice, others assistance, and I do my best to be available to the public at all times. I have a deep love of my town, my community and pride in my county. I do whatever I can as a Local Councillor to enhance peoples’ lives and to enhance our community. It will always be a priority to make educated decisions when it comes to voting on issues that will affect our people and our communities.

Housing is a huge issue for the people of Killarney Municipal District with well over 1000 people on the Social Housing List.

I, along with other Councillors, have continuously stressed that the land and building at St Finan’s would be ideal for development of a mixture of Social and Affordable Housing. This is presently in the hands of the Land Development Agency and it is hard to understand why this land cannot be released for development and kept in the public domain. If the Government is serious about providing Housing for All, then they should make the funding available for this pro-

I have worked on several disability issues over the past five years. I continuously tabled motions that the funding of the provision of hoists be brought back under the remit of Kerry County Council.

I used my motions to ensure that “Finding Charlie’s Voice” communication boards for non-verbal children be provided in every public playground in Kerry and that scribe pens be provided in all libraries in Kerry.

I campaigned against the decision to reduce the provision of special bras for women who had undergone mastectomies.

I assisted a number of individuals to get a grant to adapt their homes to suit their disability.

I am now working with an amazing group of people who are so proactive to make Killarney an Autism Friendly Town. We need extra funding to achieve more

Retail and Hospitality businesses

There is no doubt that businesses in Killarney have suffered over the past few years for a number of reasons.

The cumulative impact of a series of cost increases, the reduction in visitor accommodation which certainly has had a huge impact on the footfall in the town, the switch to online shopping and the fact that people are now shopping outside of the town centre.

While there was a review of rates payable and over 54% got a reduction, others saw an increase and many of these are now under appeal. To encourage people to shop in the town centre more parking has to be provided which is why we are

pressing for the provision of a multi-story car park. A number of spaces were removed to make provision for outdoor dining which was put in place during Covid. I have asked that parking spaces be reinstated where outdoor dining is no longer required. I have always campaigned for reduced parking fees and for free parking particularly at Christmas time to entice people back to shopping in the town centre. I will continue to fight for reduced parking fees and for a couple of hours free parking in the mornings. Also the grants to small businesses should be continued. We cannot afford to see any more businesses closing their doors in Killarney.

ject. If the will was there the building could be renovated and a number of apartments provided, which has been done in other places around the country, in particular for those on the one and two bedroom housing list. Many young couples are anxious to buy their own home but with the cost of purchasing a house, particularly in Killarney, it is outside of their reach which is why we need to provide Affordable Housing. This is a great scheme to help young couples get on the property ladder. At our last KMD meeting I tabled a motion that affordable housing be provided under Part 5 of the development at Cronin’s Wood.

services for people with disabilities such as Respite Care which is practically non-existent at the moment, adapted houses for those with a severe disability which require the provision of hoists, specific bathrooms and bedrooms. There is a lack of home help and lack of services such as speech therapy and if re-elected I will continue to fight for the improvement of such services and more.

Road Safety

I have been a long time campaigner for road safety. I have used funding from my Councillors Allocations to remove bad bends and ditches to improve sight visibility.

I campaigned hard to have improvement work carried out at Finnegan’s Cross in Kilcummin where a number of serious accidents had occurred and unfortunately fatalities. Some of this work has now been completed and the final part of the work is going out to tender. There are still a number of dangerous junctions which need work to be carried

out to alleviate the danger that exists. As I have travelled around the constituency canvassing over the past few weeks, the biggest issue that has been raised with me is speed, the speed of the traffic passing through villages, towns and on the open roads. I have called on a number of occasions for greater surveillance by the Go Safe speed vans on the roads. I have been asked by a number of people that ramps be provided to slow down the traffic in built up areas and this is an issue I will be dealing with if re-elected.

Working with Local Associations

Over the past five years I have worked closely with Residents Associations in many estates and Looking Good Organisations around the Municipal Districts.

By using funding from my Councillor Allocations I have helped to enhance estates and villages by carrying out the following works: Footpath repair works, provision of new and upgrading of public lighting, provision of essential signage, drainage and resurfacing works. provision of floral and biodiversity areas in estates, removal of graffiti and power-hosing of walls in a number of estates and painting of fences and walls in estates.

I have also campaigned for CCTV for a number of estates at the request of

Residents Associations to alleviate and prevent anti-social behaviour and will continue this campaign if re-elected. In addition to all my Council duties I also offer help with Social Welfare and Medical Card issues by helping with forms, doing appeals and attending Oral Hearings with people. I also run an advice centre for workers’ rights.

I have been immersed in community activism and politics for most of my life.

I have championed health, disability rights, social welfare issues, helping Carers, who to me are some of the hardest working people in this country, and have campaigned for improvements in facilities and services for the people of the Killarney Electoral Area. I am now working with some amazing people on a committee to make Killarney an Autism Friendly Town.

I am constantly fighting for more social and affordable housing. Many young people are very willing to buy their own home but find it next to impossible to get a mortgage to match the price of houses in Killarney and planning is a huge issue for young couples.

If you the people choose to re-elect me, I will continue all this work along with working for improved infrastructure across the Killarney Electoral Area including water/wastewater services, roads, cycling infrastructure, playgrounds, and community facilities. Traffic and parking in Killarney is a huge issue for people at the moment and I will keep this issue on the agenda, pushing for a multi-story car park and keep the pressure on the TII, who need to move quicker, on the Farranfore to Killarney Project to provide the bypass.

I will also continue to work with retailers and hospitality sectors to bring footfall back into the town centre and to maintain Killarney’s international reputation as a world-class tourism destination.

YOUR CANDIDATES

Caroline Kenneally

ADDRESS: Coolies, Muckross

AGE: 50

OCCUPATION: Constituency Office Manager to Pa Daly Sinn Féin TD for Kerry

PARTY: Sinn Féin

On the 7th of June 2024, I am asking you to place your trust in me. It would be an honour to have your No.1 vote or next highest preference vote. In return, the one promise I will give is that I will work hard for you and commit to being a voice for you on Kerry County Council. I believe the life skills and experience I have gained throughout my years enables me to fully understand the concerns, worries, and struggles that people and families face daily. Working for Sinn Féin TD Pa Daly has given me the invaluable knowledge and competence it takes to best help, advise, and represent the people and town of Killarney and East Kerry.

Tackling Anti-Social Behaviour

One aspect I feel particularly passionate about is the worrying rise of anti-social behaviour that occurs in various pockets of the town. We have a brilliant town, and this issue needs to be addressed without shining a negative spotlight on those residential areas that have problems as I am cognisant they are generally great places with wonderful people living there. For example, as a native of Ballyspillane Estate, an area that is close to my heart, I particularly want to highlight and commend the services that the Torc Community & Family Resource Centre provides to the community since it was established in 2004. This unique social enterprise supports families in need in Killarney Town & Municipal District Areas. Currently, run by Derek O’Leary, BOM and 28 staff, this proves what can

be achieved when a community comes together.

As an elected member of the Killarney MD, I will listen to the concerns of the victims of ASB, work to deliver the CCTV system which was promised to the area in 2018, and call for more community Gardaí to be present in the town in order to help reduce anti-social behaviour.

Housing not a Luxury, it’s a Necessity

As we have seen at national level, this government has squandered a priceless opportunity to change direction and fix the housing crisis.

Its national strategy has also filtered down to local level, and Killarney has been no exception to this failure, where we have recently seen people in their 90s on the housing waiting list. We need to review the Local Authority Affordable

It’s no secret that due to its phenomenal success as a tourist destination, our town has continued to suffer from traffic congestion.

While the 2016 Killarney Town Traffic Model/Traffic Management Study created a strategy to improve the town for all road users, we need to go further and deliver the recommended improvements. I would like to see the cycling and walking projects approved by Council in 2021 delivered as soon as possible. Funding is not the issue – we need to deliver these projects for everyone. As a public representative, I would strive to improve our roads and streets, making them safer as commuter routes for all road users. I would work with the Department of Transport to expand the new bus routes to and from Killarney, making it easier for those living in Fossa, Kilcummin, Barraduff and Glenflesk to access the town. I would work with

stakeholders to improve and expand the network of pedestrian crossings in the town, particularly in Muckross, Park Road and around Ballycasheen/Woodlawn. I would also work with all stakeholders to accelerate the delivery of the N22 upgrade, which is vitally important to Killarney’s development.

Community Building

Community-building requires empathy, effort and resources. It demands that we engage with the realities that shape people’s lives. It requires a commitment to fostering inclusivity, not just in words but in actions.

While Killarney is rich in history, heritage and has evolved into a welcoming destination for many generations, today we need to work harder to deliver local services for an ever-changing, diverse community.

Purchase Scheme and the First Home Scheme, putting more resources in at local level to make support more accessible to young and old alike.

In conjunction with national government, I would work to introduce mortgage relief for struggling homeowners and liaise with the Local Government Management Agency to streamline the planning process, thus making it to plan and deliver residential units in the town. But more importantly, as a Sinn Féin councillor, I will work to ensure that our national strategy of building 21,000 social and affordable homes – 7,300 more than the government target – will benefit Killarney and the surrounding townlands that encompass the municipal district. I want to be part of a diverse team – local council, community groups and businesses – to eliminate the housing problem in Killarney.

Communication is important for community building, and we need to listen more to what our electoral is telling us. Yes, there are big-ticket items such as housing, immigration, job creation and the environment, but there are also many people working tirelessly in the background, volunteering for charities, local sports clubs and other organisations: their voice is equally important and their role in community building is critical too.

We need to make local government more accessible to our community and

Here to Serve All

Local government is an integral part of how our country operates. It leads out on economic, social and community development, helping organisations access services and funding that in turn benefits many people living in Killarney and the surrounding areas.

I want to work with the executive officers of Kerry County Council to deliver efficient and good value services, and I want to represent all constituents – even those who may not vote for me – effectively and with accountability. On my daily canvass, I have heard the concerns

as an elected representative, I will empathise across the spectrum: with workers, those without work, carers, schoolchildren, people with disabilities; everyone has a part to play in making Killarney and Kerry East a thriving, sustainable community, contributing locally and to the wider Kerry county.

of people, whether it is with regards to social welfare, accessing services for women, the young and our elderly communities, or those with disabilities. I want to channel this knowledge as an elected member of Kerry County Council to create and deliver services and initiatives that are in the interest of our community. And in recent years, that community has become more diverse, a diversity I have welcomed and will continue to welcome. As an elected member of Kerry County Council, I will work for everyone in our Killarney community.

Pace of change is slow for female participation

The upcoming local election will see a record number of women putting themselves forward for the Killarney Electoral Area. Incumbents Marie Maloney and Maura Healy Rae will be joined by the two newcomers Caroline Kenneally and Natalia Krasnenkova, to bring the total number to four women joining the 13 men on the ballot paper.

While it is certainly welcome news to see more female representation locally, you can’t help but think the pace of change is slow.

Nationally, in 2019, 562 out of a total of 1,977 candidates were women (28.4%).

Kerry ranked 24 out of 31 local authorities in female candidacy rates, at 21%. At the time of writing this article we counted 19 female runners running for election in Kerry this year, alongside 58 men. If no new names come forward, the female candidacy rate will stand at around 24%. A modest 3% increase on 2019 Kerry figures, and still 4% below the national average.

A trend that isn’t often talked about is the large discrepancy in female candidacy figures based on geography. East coast and urban local authorities are seeing much larger rates of women candidates running in comparison to western and more rural counties. The figures highlight a regional disparity in female candidacy rates across Ireland. Take the 2019 local election for instance, 46.6% of candidates in Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown on the urban, east coast were women, while only 12.1% were women in rural Roscommon on the western seaboard.

The stats show that when women do run, the chances of them getting elected are very high. Out of the 562 female candidates that ran in the last election, 217 were elected (1 in every 2.5). So, if the outcomes are good, why are so few women running for local election? Why are those numbers even less in what could be described as predominantly rural counties like Kerry, and what can be done to encourage more women to run in local elections? We caught up with two female candidates on this year’s ballot paper to get their perspective.

MARIE MALONEY

“As a female I have been involved in politics both nationally and locally, and even though I have worked in politics for over 32 years, I did not put my name on the ballot paper until my children were reared. I believe that women with young children find it very hard to dedicate their time to politics as there is a huge demand on their family time, even when shared with their husbands/ partners. Even with maternity leave, it is still very hard for women to decide to enter politics as the reality of it is, if you were not to be available to the constituents when they have issues they would move off to another politician and one could suffer the consequences at the next election. Having said that the introduction of maternity leave would perhaps encourage some more women to enter politics.

“In the early days following my election I did find it difficult walking into a function or public meeting by myself. Men will generally have gathered together chatting and I did miss the presence of other female politicians. However as time moved on and I got better known within the circles that all changed, and I am now one of them and it makes no difference whether or not I am female. At the start I have to give credit to former Councillor and subsequent TD, Tom Fleming, who always made it a point to introduce me to everyone at such gatherings.

“I am often asked about gender balance and while personally I would like to be elected because I was the right person for the job, I know that if we are really serious about increasing women in active politics, then gender balance has to be introduced. Once elected, I can

In 2019, Kerry ranked 24 out of 31 local authorities in terms of female candidacy rates.

assure all female candidates, there is absolutely no difference between male and female by the staff and executive of Kerry County Council and the service they provide to us as elected members. I encourage women to put their names forward and would also appeal to female voters to try to support female candidates.”

CAROLINE KENNEDY

“This is an interesting topic to explore because out of all sitting councillors in Ireland, only 25% of them are women. While partners are far more involved in the responsibilities of the family and home, the role has fallen predominantly on women up to recently.

“I have always been interested in politics but like many women who have children or other family-related responsibilities, I simply didn’t have the time or financial resources to consider running in local elections. I am a mother of 4 and it is only now that my youngest child is 16, I can now invest the commitment it takes to put into running for office and subsequently do my role as a councillor should I be lucky enough to be elected.

“Like their urban counterparts, rural women look at their responsibilities and ask who will manage everything while they are out canvassing or, if elected, while they are dealing with constituency queries and attending meetings. Historically, due to societal gender inequalities, women didn’t see politics as a career for them, so we have decades of underrepresentation to eliminate, and that doesn’t happen overnight.

“I believe the availability of quality, affordable, accessible childcare for parents is probably the number one item to encourage more women to participate in politics, both local and national.

Due to the gender quota legislation introduced in 2016, while it is now more natural to see women in politics, I still feel that within society, there remains the view that men are more interested in becoming involved in politics. At a holistic level, we need to make it more ‘normal’ for women to be interested in politics. Certainly, within my own party, from the leadership down, this has been a core goal over the last number of years. It is now no coincidence that two of the most senior politicians in Ireland are female and from Sinn Féin.

“I also believe that training programmes such as SHE (See Her Elected) and Women for Election should be made more widely available to help women improve their knowledge, skills, and networks to build political careers, while nationally, policies that improve the distribution of economic roles within couples could help address the under-representation of women in positions of political power. And, finally, we need to encourage women to be more interested in wanting to be involved.”

To their credit, Kerry County Council recently hosted an empowering and informative event which was aimed at fostering increased engagement and participation of women and diversity in local elections. The event had engaging discussions on the importance of women and diversity in local politics, exploring the nuances of women and diversity in local politics and providing networking opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals. Marie Maloney took part in the panel discussion on that day, andsaid that she hoped that by listening to women talking about their positive experiences in politics it will encourage others to consider running.

The stats show that when women do run, the chances of them getting elected are very high. Out of the 562 female candidates that ran in the last election, 217 were elected (1 in every 2.5).

YOUR CANDIDATES

ADDRESS: Muckross, Killarney

AGE: 40

OCCUPATION: Primary Teacher

PARTY: Kerry Independent Alliance

Since succeeding my uncle, Michael Gleeson, on Kerry County Council in June 2021 it has truly been an honour to work with you, and for you, the people of Killarney Municipal District. Over the last 2 years I have worked tirelessly on your behalf and would like the opportunity to continue this work. We live in a wonderful part of the world and with your Number 1 vote, I will continue to provide a strong voice advocating both for our area and those fortunate enough to call it home. We need voices of reason now more than ever, and if elected on June 7th, I promise to remain committed to delivering for the people of Killarney, East Kerry and beyond.

John O'Donoghue Housing Environment

The survey reflects what we see here on the ground in Killarney regarding the paucity of housing options within the MD.

In particular the scarcity of what would be termed affordable housing is particularly severe. Planning regulations have made building in the countryside extremely difficult unless you fit a very strict metric, and in the town itself there is little opportunity to build or buy. There is something intrinsically wrong with a system where you can have a couple both working full time unable to get a mortgage. This is not a problem confined to our area, but a nationwide one created by failure upon failure of Government after Government to engage in house building and instead leave it to private developers. The government has ramped up building in recent months and must be commended for this, but

Since entering the Council, I have campaigned relentlessly for a Minor Injury Clinic, including an X-ray Clinic to be opened in Killarney.

Currently, people with even relatively minor injures are being funnelled into an already overworked A&E Department

it’s equally important to remember they are merely playing catch up for years of inaction. A viable housing plan must be implemented, and adhered to in order to help ease the pressure within our Municipal District. The Council will build housing but need to be provided with the means to do so.

in University Hospital Kerry. People of a certain age group tell of being able to get soft dressings applied once upon a time in the town, yet unbelievably, many years later such a facility does not exist. The benefits of such a clinic in the town would be colossal for all of East and South Kerry, and would also help alleviate the strain on an already overloaded UHK. I have raised this issue with the HSE in my position on the Regional Assembly Southern Forum, and they have conceded that from a population perspective, Killarney would be the preferred option within the County for such a facility. I believe the soon to be vacated District Hospital to be an ideal location for such a clinic and if elected on June 7th, I will continue to fight for a Minor Injuries Clinic to be opened in Killarney.

Traffic congestion is a major problem within Killarney and is an issue which repeatedly gets brought up by constituents.

The long awaited bypass from Farranfore to Killarney would greatly help alleviate congestion around the town. Currently, we have a road known as the bypass, but in reality this is little more than an inner relief road as it starts, and ends within the town not bypassing anything. It is imperative we continue to campaign heavily to see this project come to fruition as currently there are

We are extremely fortunate to be living in one of the most beautiful areas on the planet.

Killarney owes much of its success to the majestic splendour of its natural environs and it is vital we do all we can to preserve and protect this bountiful natural treasure. Climate change is the single largest crisis facing humanity and anything we can do, both individually and collectively, to help counteract global warming must be encouraged. Often I hear people say what difference can we make, being such a small country when

4 routes from which the final route will be chosen. For families living on these routes, their lands are sterile as they are unable to allow children to build houses on their land for fear that it is where the route will ultimately pass. Also, landowners are quite rightly fearful for what the chosen route will mean for both their land and their house. We need a route to be selected so those living on the chosen route can sit down with engineers to discuss how best to minimise disruption to their lives. The current impasse is unfair on all involved.

you look at pollution levels in countries many times our size? To that I say, we can only control that which is controllable to us. Growing up, and still living on a farm, I know the current model whereby many sectors feel they are being unreasonably dictated to is not working and we need to move to a model where all relevant sectors are sat down and their views listened to in order for us to find solutions that work for everyone, be it agriculture, transport, industry etc. Idealism must be balanced with realism. ‘Ní neart go cur le Chéile’.

Local Services

Firstly our road surfaces, particularly on secondary and minor routes.

Our Council engineers and road crews do a tremendous job but their abilities are hamstrung by a lack of funding from National level. We must continue to pressure the Government to provide adequate resources to address this issue. Small businesses are experiencing previously unheard of levels of pressures at the moment. While various cost of business supports have been introduced, and are very welcome, they are merely temporary solutions, sticking plaster over a deep gash. Rather than

just giving businesses support to enable them to survive for another few months, initiatives need to be introduced which will increase business to make them self sufficient again e.g. A VAT reduction for those shopping/eating local might encourage more people into town centres rather than going online. Also maybe a lower energy unit price for small businesses?

Improved Active Travel measures and in particular improved public transport are required. In a time where we are encouraged to leave our cars at home, the reality is that when living in a rural county like Kerry, a car is a necessity as public transport is still inadequate

YOUR CANDIDATES

ADDRESS: Killarney

AGE: 51

Damien Switzer

OCCUPATION: Graphic Designer/Historian

PARTY: Sinn Féin

The time-honoured profession of being a true representative elected by one's peers, 'by the people for the people' has by some become coloured by business interests and ambition. The true focus of being a local, from your area, knowing your area is being lost. Politics has become stale, routine, and local priorities seem less important. That said, there are some fine local candidates (I grew up with them), but unlike some, I haven't served for decades, hail from a political family, nor been handed a seat, have business interests or wealth to fund my campaign. I can show no track record in office. I have no political experience, this is my greatest advantage! I have however been a keen observer of all their decision-making over the years. I can bring what they don't have, an unbiased perspective. I am not swayed by how politics has been done but driven by how it should be done. I speak only for Killarney, not myself.

Family Values

I’ve been lucky in life, I’m married to Elizabeth. A trojan volunteer, she is and has been my rock, a sounding board, sometimes reeling me in and other times giving me the confidence to speak out.

Raising four good boys has given me perspective on life and I like to think they have been my crowning achievement. If I could be half the man my father Frank was I’d be doing alright but after all he was an exceptional human being. My mother Eileen, what can I say, she’s worth two of me or any man any day. They both had a

lifetime of volunteering and service to Killarney… I do my bit but I’m only trotting behind them but they taught me well. Be honest, decent and true to your beliefs, and stand up for the underdog, you are no better than anyone else, and help out where you can and it costs nothing to be nice… if I can bring those simple values coupled with my professional experience and passion for Killarney to KCC… I guarantee you ‘your vote won’t be wasted’. The Switzers are doers, we know no other way. It’s time to send a message ‘The locals are back’!

Why entrust me with your vote?

Ask yourself this, do you feel better off today than you did five years ago? Do you see a bright future for your children?

If the answer is no then do something about it. So come June 7th, think! When you enter the polling booth, take a moment and ask yourself who cares the most about Killarney. Who has the most to gain, the candidate or you? I couldn’t

Being a politician

The definition of a politician has changed, and the true meaning of a public representative is now so far removed from what it should be, it's concerning.

I want to be amongst the people, I want local people's issues to be at the fore of every utterance I speak. The same old traditional way of doing things can lead to staleness, and become too routine. A complacency sets in. After the elections, in the eyes of the public, politicians seem to blend back into the noise, appearing only to take praise for their or others' efforts.

In the past few weeks, frantic efforts have been made to fix potholes, paint lines and clear weeds. Letters and prom-

The Small Things

We all know the big issues I won't bore you with them I'm sure other candidates have highlighted them. Plenty of promises will be made or remade.

We do have some great local representatives. I want to do the small things for the people, that’s us by the way, you and me, the locals! Just like my position on the ballot paper. I’m at the bottom

ises on issues are flying in the doors. Announcements on projects are being made a dime a dozen. If it takes an election to get these things done, ‘let’s have one every year!'

of a very long list, that’s where we as locals seem to be in the grand scheme of things. Locals are feeling forgotten. The little things to Kerry County Council are big issues in our lives! The rest can tag their name to all the big ticket items, I’m not interested in media exposure and column inches or patting myself on the back. If I did nothing for five years only sorting out the bread-and-butter issues that would do nicely.

I want to leave my mark on Killarney. I’ve spent all my life collecting and preserving its past and now I want to – no, I feel compelled to –help in safeguarding its future.

care less about politician ambitions, I care for Killarney. From the doors it seems the locals are feeling forgotten, seem to be at the bottom of KCC list of priorities, to change that vote for the local who will put you first. So ironically I respectfully ask you to cast your eye down to the very bottom of the ballot paper, to the last name on the list and vote Damien Switzer.

Through my research, I’ve seen how other local authorities operate. I’ll cherry-pick what they do well, bring those ideas to KCC and ask why can’t we do it like this! Regularly through the media over my term I'll keep the voters abreast of the goings on in KCC, a monthly online newsletter, what is being done for them, my efforts, my successes yes and failures too and keeping an eye on what others are doing on your behalf. Pressuring KCC at every turn. Letting you know not after the horse has bolted but well in advance so you can have your say. So when making your decision on June 7th, consider this: If the Kerry team is con-

sistently playing poorly even with experienced players who have been good servants for years… what do they do?

A new manager asks veterans to step aside, thank them for their years and years of service and will introduce new talent, and fresh legs. I’m not saying I’m a Jamso or a Clifford but they injected new energy and had a positive impact.

SWITZER DAMIEN VOTE 1

YOUR CANDIDATES

ADDRESS: Lissivigeen

OCCUPATION: Businessman

PARTY: Fine Gael

Dermot Healy Community Services

I’m a businessman with over 30 years of experience running a successful motor dealership in Killarney. I’m passionate about giving back to the community and have been a long-time member of the Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce. I’m also heavily involved in Irish motorsport, currently serving on the Irish Motorsport Council and having been involved in the Rally of the Lakes for many years. As an election candidate, I'm committed to serving the needs of my community in every way possible. If elected on June 7, I want to work with local businesses to develop a more vibrant town centre. I want to address housing issues locally and I want to support the youth of the town.

Housing

Ireland's housing crisis demands a multifaceted response.

While new construction is crucial, we must also address the issue of vacant properties and lands in and around Killarney. St. Finan’s is the prime example of state owned property that would be best served as local and affordable housing.

If elected, I will be pushing for affordable housing developments. The permitting process for new construction also needs

examining. Streamlining approvals without compromising on safety or environmental regulations is key. Faster turnaround times will encourage developers to build more readily, alleviating the strain on the housing market. By tackling vacant properties, fostering affordable housing options, and expediting permitting, we can take significant strides towards bridging the housing gap. This will be one of my key focuses if elected after June 7.

I believe in the power of a vibrant and connected community.

My vision is for a place where resident concerns are championed, local services and infrastructure are constantly improving, and a strong sense of community thrives.

Killarney deserves the best and I will advocate for improved local services. One area which needs major improvements locally is healthcare. In particular, a minor injuries clinic. Soon, the district hospital will move to a new state-of-the-art facility just off the by-pass and while this is welcome news for staff and patients, it would be a shame for the old district hospital to run into dereliction. I will argue the case that this would make a great location for a minor injuries clinic so that the people of Killarney do not have to travel to neighbouring towns and counties for minor injuries.

On this issue and others, I won't shy away from representing our community on a wider stage. I'll fight for the towns interests on regional and national issues also, ensuring your voice is heard beyond the borders of Kerry.

Town Centre Business

At the heart of my campaign is a commitment to fostering a thriving business environment.

As well as looking for reduced VAT rates for hospitality, I will also push hard for the development of a detailed retail strategy for Killarney town so that our

small local businesses can also thrive. It is important that we have a plan to attract popular, big name retailers to Killarney so we can develop our town centre into a top class shopping destination. I will be a vocal advocate for the "shop local" movement, encouraging residents to utilise the excellent services and goods offered right here in our community.

Furthermore, I will lean on my experience with the Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce and collaborate with local stakeholders to organise events and promotions that draw visitors and inject vibrancy into our town. Improving parking areas and tackling traffic issues around the town will also be two of my objectives to help create a more inviting experience for both residents and visitors.

Youth

Our community thrives on its energy, and that energy comes from its youth. Yet, young voices often go unheard.

I was recently attending an Ard Fheis in Galway, and Fine Gael were poorly represented by Kerry people. I want to empower our local youth to participate in local decision-making and get involved with a party that is at the heart of decision making in Ireland. This can

be through youth councils, open forums and engagement with local schools. By giving young people a platform, we gain valuable perspectives on issues that directly affect their lives and future. Finally, prioritising mental health resources in the community is crucial. Workshops on emotional well-being, readily available counsellors, and accessible support groups can equip our youth with the tools they need to navigate the challenges of growing up.

Services and Infrastructure

There are a number of areas I would look to focus on to improve services and infrastructure in our town.

One such issue that needs to be reviewed is the lack of connection between Killarney bus and train station. The two stations are 20 metres apart, yet it is ridiculous that we are asking the disabled and elderly to travel 500 metres around the block to get between the two stations.

I would also raise the issue of additional recreational activities for young people in our town. If you do not play sport or

GAA there is not much to engage young people. I will look at ways to provide additional services and amenities where young people can go and meet and hang out with friends in a safe environment.

Dermot HEALY

HOW I WILL USE YOUR VOTE:

• Supporting the Community

• Working with Business

• Focus on Retail

• Address Housing

• Promote Youth Engagement

VOTE NO 1

YOUR CANDIDATES

ADDRESS: Killarney

AGE: 36

OCCUPATION: Fire Officer

PARTY: Non- Party

Martin Grady Health

My hard working disposition and commitment to the people of this district along with my work as a Fire Officer since I was 21 years old has brought its challenges but its reward far outweighs them when you can assist those in any need or in difficulty. The Grady name is well associated to the political life of this town, working tirelessly representing the people of Killarney for over the last 60 years. One of the greatest local losses was that of the abolishment of the town councils, which I would stronger suggest be returned. It has been a major battle to get my name on the ballet for this election, when Minister Dara O'Brien’s department tried to withhold me from running because of my occupation as a Fire Officer. Consequently, I had to take court action to get this ruling overturned which has ignited my energy and passion for this role all the more. As an Independent I can speak freely for the people without being dictated by political party policies.

One of my first motions raised was seeking a Minor Accident and Injuries Clinic for Killarney, University Hospital Kerry had 38,000 people pass through A&E in 2022 with 42,000 last year, with this year on target to exceed previous years.

Having a clinic in Killarney would take pressure off the main A&E at UHK shortening waiting times and give the people of Killarney and South Kerry a more efficient service with suitable readily available venues in the area owned by the HSE. GP appointment waiting times are also a massive issue, people are seen to quicker by the out of hour’s service, South Doc – a great service to have no doubt however patients aren’t building a history with their own GP where they can be closely monitored. Medicine shortage: the supply and demand needs to be addressed. With the population increase in Ireland and other parts of Europe this wasn’t thought through. The government needs to invest in the Health Service right across all sectors from mental health, disability services, and rehab and addiction services. Many medical graduates are emmigrating to where the lifestyle and pay is better. These workers should be appreciated and paid accordingly in order to retain them in the county.

Parking and Traffic Management

Killarney’s Traffic and Parking issue has worsened significantly, with the loss of 80 spaces to outdoor dining, we need more on street 15 minute spaces and high rise parking sooner than later.

It’s not fair on the local that needs to run into the chemist or the butcher having to circle the town several times before finding a space, worsening the traffic prob-

lem with businesses also suffering a loss. The N22 Killarney/Farranfore Road Project is vital, our by-pass is no longer fit for purpose as the traffic volume has exceeded its capabilities while we are land locked by the National Park on the other side of town. Traffic during school times and at our schools is chaos, school bus services both urban and rural should return. We have gone backwards in this regard.

Policing Housing

Killarney has a massive housing shortfall, from social to affordable and homeless accommodation.

The government boasts of delivering a record number of homes. Bearing in mind we also have record population in the county, the highest it’s been since 1911, the demand simply isn’t being met. Not one affordable home built for the young families starting out in life, the ones that are going out earning, struggling to save a deposit because of the increased cost

of living. There are over 1600 people on the Social Housing list in Killarney Municipal District. While out canvassing it was tough to see the last Homeless Accommodation in Killarney is now a home for refugees. If someone or a family is homeless in Killarney they have no option but to go to Tralee making it difficult as their GP’s and schools are in Killarney. I appreciate every man, woman and child should have a roof over their heads but we must get our priorities right.

Kerry has the highest population since 1911, but the number of Gardai hasn’t increased accordingly to meet these figures. Killarney covers neighbouring towns from time to time which in turn

leaves Killarney more exposed. There has been a number of recent unprovoked attacks in the town, which is alarming. I feel a zero tolerance approached should be taken when dealing with such cases.

Youth Amenities & Local Business

Killarney is lacking youth amenities for those aged 11-18 which makes up a large portion of our population.

Teen-specific hang out spaces are lacking, it’s forcing them into car parks and playgrounds. Teens themselves will tell you there’s a strong connection between the lack of youth amenities and anti- social behaviour. They need their own space, a safe drink and drug free environment where they can chat, play pool, train or study with access to wifi and charging ports etc. We must think beyond the election we

need to think of our next generation and make them a priority. The tourism trade has taken a hit over the last couple of years between bed shortages and a decreased footfall, VAT Rates have also put extra added pressure on businesses in recent times, we have one of the highest electrity costs in Europe both domestic and commercial. This must be tackled at a National level to support and encourage local bussinesses trading within our town to prevent further closures. It's paramount we retain high employment levels, the workers are the backbone of our town.

Should the voting age in Ireland be reduced to 16?

The legal age to vote in the majority of countries around the world currently sits at 18 years of age. More than 85 percent of nations fall into this group.

These include the United States, United Kingdom, India, China, Japan, Germany, Italy, France, Canada, Australia, Peru, Chile, Israel, South Africa and of course, Ireland.

However, there are a minority of countries such as Brazil, Argentina, Ecuador, Cuba and Austria that set their minimum voting age at 16. In March 2018, Malta lowered its general voting age from 18 to 16, becoming the second European Union country to do so at national level. In Germany, local elections in ten federal Bundesländer-states include under 18s, as do regional polls in Estonia and Scotland.

It's more than 16 years since Austria opened the door to a new generation

of voters, allowing sixteen- and seventeen-year-olds to choose their representatives at all levels of government.

Research conducted on voting behaviour of young voters aged 16-18 years of age revealed that two thirds expressed interest in the election campaign. Turnout of the young people 16-18 years is comparable with the total national electorate and research found young people of 16-18 years of age did not vote more radically than the adult population but voted in a similar way.

The National Youth Council of Ireland have been strong advocates for reducing the voting age to 16, believing that young people should have a greater say in decisions and actions that affect them

and their community, but what does our local youth think? Do they believe lowering the voting age would lead to a more engaged citizenry and foster a lifelong habit of civic engagement, or is there even an appetite amongst those it concerns to make changes?

We decided to take the temperature on this hot-button issue by asking local students the question, do you think the voting age in Ireland should be reduced to 16?

AGAINST

Not interested, no need, no gainsays Alicia Lee

The majority have minimal interest in politics at sixteen, our brains are still maturing and haven't given governmental issues or the running of Ireland much thought yet. Since our brain is still maturing it’s illegal for a sixteen-year-old to

drive a car or consume alcohol so what is the difference that makes people think these same teenagers are mature enough with enough interest to understand their vote, or even be bothered to vote. Lack of maturity comes with vulnerability. Teens can be easily influenced especially through persuasion on social media. This combination of still maturing, lack of interest in politics and vulnerability could lead to uneducated and impulsive decisions by a huge amount of voting teenagers.

Not ready - says Ellen Gleeson 16-year-olds are asked a lot of questions. Do you have a job? Have you passed your theory test? and more recently, do you think you are ready to vote? Unfortunately, in most cases the answer is no. Many 16- and 17-year-olds themselves are admitting that they do not think the voting age should be reduced, as they

just do not have the life experience or the time to read up about the current political issues. Most 16-17 years olds are just not interested about the political sphere to vote just yet. Although there may be exceptions, the possible benefits that would come by these voters being added to the system would be outweighed by the apathy of the rest of the age cohort and the cost and disarray it would create by adding them. They are simply not interested in or do not have enough information about the problems and issues that they will face in the future when it comes to life outside of school.

Questionable influences

- says Ellie

Doolan

As concerning as multiple adult opinions are, you also expose your society to immature young people who would cast votes with questionable intentions. Now more than ever young people are completely surrounded by different influences, good and bad, and although the majority of young people in Ireland are given good education, often at these young ages that is not what tends to influence them. Almost 9 in 10 16and 17-year-olds in Ireland are on social media and this plays a huge role in every one of them forming opinions on certain

topics. If one person that the majority of them ‘look up to’ posts an opinion on a certain topic you will see almost every one of them will instantly agree, and as we know you cannot always trust the ‘influencer’ has made a good, educated opinion.

FOR

Age is just a number - says Kate O’Sullivan

At 17, I often find myself wondering about the impact that government decisions have on my life and the lives of my peers. It's an age where we start to realise that the choices made by those in power shape our futures. Yet, despite this, we are denied a say in the decisions that affect us the most. This brings into question the fairness of the current voting age in Ireland, which stands at 18. Shouldn't young people like me have a voice in shaping our collective destiny? If an old person can vote, why can't I? One of the main arguments for lowering the voting age to 16 is that government decisions impact young people. Policies regarding education, employment, and the environment directly affect our lives. For example, decisions about education funding and curriculum shape our learning experiences and future

LOCAL ELECTION 2024 53

opportunities. Decisions about our curriculum are being made by people who aren’t living it like we are and therefore don’t know what it's like as times have changed. Therefore, it's only fair that we have a say in electing the officials who make these decisions.

Our Future, Our Choice - says Megan Sheahan By lower the voting age to sixteen in Ireland we are allowing the younger generation to be a part of the conversation, Ireland would empower its youth to make decisions about their country that will affect their future and the generations to come. There are many reasons why this should come into effect. One being that at the age of sixteen you are able to work and therefore pay taxes. Shouldn't the people that pay the wages of those working in political positions be able to vote for who holds those offices? According to the Irish Times in 2019, the number of people aged sixteen and seventeen who are in paid employment was over 30,500. That is a huge percentage of the sixteen/seventeen population in Ireland. If the voting age was lowered, polls would take into account a broader range of voices and perspectives to be represented in our democratic system.

More Voices mean Better Choicessays Natasha Hebda Imagine a class of almost 16-year-olds learning about politics and the political world, and thinking, “I don't need this now, so what’s the point?” This is where we are now. Teenagers having no idea about the goings-on in the real world. But we can change that. We can change the teenagers of today, and of the future, to have a bigger interest and better understanding of the political world and help them to learn how to make good decisions affecting, not just theirs, but all our lives. Over 30,650 people are affected by our working laws without the right to a say in any of them. Over 30,650 people get paid without the right to a say in their minimum wage. Over 30,650 people pay taxes without the right to a say in how much they’re taxed. This is just one example of how we affect their lives and how they don’t get the right to vote for this and every other aspect of the law that affects their lives. WE decide on THEIR schooling system, WE decide on THEIR future environment, WE decide on THEIR working hours, WE decide on THEIR pay, WE decide on THEIR rights. How can we do all these things without consulting the people these laws will affect most?

Brendan Cronin

ADDRESS: Ballyhar, Killarney

AGE: 60

OCCUPATION: Public representative and farmer

PARTY: Independent since first elected 25 years ago I am seeking re-election to continue being an active local representative in the Killarney Municipal District. I have always sought public accountability and transparency within our local government structures. If re-elected, my commitment is to continue to work for the future growth, development and recognition of local communities, both rural and urban. Being an outspoken independent, I can stand up for those that need a voice in our area, and I intend to continue this work free from party policies. I will maintain my record of being a persistent, determined and experienced independent voice at Council meetings. I appeal for your Number 1 vote on polling day to let me continue this work.

Housing and Planning

The current and previous governments, and Dail TDs for Kerry have failed to deliver real affordable housing for Killarney.

We cannot allow for a society where working people can’t access a mortgage or affordable houses. I have led the call to get the Minister for Housing, HSE and the Land Development Agency to develop affordable housing at St. Finan’s and other HSE owned property in Killarney, for local Kerry families, similar to the redevelopment of the 260 housing units at St. Kevins Hospital in Cork City. Killarney has been overlooked and forgotten about nationally, in relation to affordable housing, for too long. I ask for your support to bring about change in how we provide social and affordable housing so that your family and those in our communities can be homeowners. I will continue to work to reverse the current

Killarney, along with East & South Kerry need a dedicated A&E unit located in our town.

With the new community hospital nearing completion, I am pushing for the HSE to develop a new A&E base and an outpatient’s clinic in Killarney. The recent new Alliance Medical Diagnostics facility located at the Reeks, where X-rays, ultrasounds, and MRIs are performed, is an example of what we need, but it must be accessible to the general public. It is shocking that, as a country, there are people with serious lifelong medical diagnoses who are being refused medical cards by the HSE. I have raised this at KCC meetings and will continue to work to end the current inequality where people who are diagnosed with serious long term medical conditions are

crippling planning legislation that is preventing families from buying a site and building in the countryside. The current planning laws are only resulting in overpriced housing, which is already in short supply. KCC needs to provide affordable sites on lands they are not utilising.

being refused medical cards and home support. This is unacceptable treatment of families who have always contributed and paid their taxes towards the running of this country. The HSE needs to lift the current recruitment embargo that is taking place. It is resulting in medical staffing positions not being filled, which is seriously impacting public health services.

Following the securement of approx. €1.5 million to carry out road safety and road improvement works at Fossa, I will continue to campaign for major road improvements at: Madams Hill, Coolcaslaugh, Ballydribbeen and Ballycasheen junctions, which are extremely dangerous. Killarney town needs a multi-story car park that is centrally located and easily accessible.

The full replacement of the single-lane Listry Bridge must progress, and I will continue to keep this major road safety project on the table until adequate funding is allocated.

A programme of works with increased funding to upgrade footpaths within estates that have been neglected. In addition to this, the provision of footpaths at Pairc Cummin, Madams Heights, and Barraduff to provide safe connectivity for residents. Increased funding of up to €5 million a year is required for Local Improvement Schemes (LIS) to make a proper impact on the enormous list of over 600 who are awaiting rural road upgrades. The TII must progress with the new Farranfore to Lissivigeen bypass route to alleviate the constant traffic congestion at bottleneck areas, such as Killarney bypass, Muckross Rd, Mission Rd and Lewis Rd.

Local Community Needs

The redevelopment of Áras Phádraig must progress as the funding has been allocated.

KCC management needs to ensure that this redevelopment happens in order to deliver new community facilities: a 300 seat theatre, meeting rooms, a public plaza, and a primary care centre, along with other amenities. The Minister for Justice must recognise the challenges facing members of An Garda Síochána on the front line. We need more Garda on the beat and in our communities to continue to protect and keep the public

safe from harm. There can be no further delays in the provision of the Killarney town and Ballyspillane CCTV projects. As Mayor of Killarney, I requested that the Minister for Integration & IPAS cease sending any further asylum seekers to Killarney as our current local services are already at capacity. I have continuously defended family-owned short-term lettings, which provide a vital contribution to Kerry’s tourism sector and local businesses, and they must have a voice to defend them. KCC must prioritise the completion of the Fossa Way/Lough Leane loop as a Greenway for Killarney.

Tourism, Business and Agriculture

I will continue to advocate for the return of the 9% VAT rate for the hospitality sector, which is facing unprecedented challenges in keeping its doors open for business in Killarney.

The unavailability of tourism accommodation due to being involved in government contracts is seriously impacting small businesses, cafes, and restaurants. Many businesses are facing large increases in rates following the national valuation review. I have called for all valuation appeals to be dealt with in a fair and reasonable fashion.

It was an honour to support, as Mayor of Killarney, the Killarney Coffee Cup project. This initiative is an excellent example of sustainable, outside-the-box thinking by local organisations, and KCC needs to continue to support these new

initiatives and give leadership. There are extraordinary challenges facing the agricultural sector, which is trying to recover from a long and devastating winter. I have brought an emergency motion before KCC calling for farm supports to be put in place and for the Department of Agriculture to be conscious of the exceptional pressures facing farming families trying to cope in the future.

Brendan Cronin

INDEPENDENT

• Has experience, integrity, and common sense.

• Listens to local people and understands local priorities.

• Has a proven ability to represent the rural and urban areas of the Killarney Municipal District.

• Is passionate about local government.

• Has always been outspoken and reliable.

• Is not propping up any political party or any highly paid TD.

IF YOU INTEND TO VOTE INDEPENDENT IN THE LOCAL ELECTION, I’M ASKING YOU TO PLEASE ON JUNE 7TH SO THAT THE KILLARNEY MUNICIPAL DISTRICT WILL HAVE AN INDEPENDENT THAT: There

CANDIDATES

ADDRESS: Killarney

AGE: 54

Niall Botty

O’Callaghan

OCCUPATION: Hotelier

PARTY: Independent

I’m Niall Botty O'Callaghan, a pioneering councillor known for my progressive approach. I became the first in Ireland to be elected solely through digital canvassing, avoiding traditional posters and flyers. As a prominent voice for Killarney on national television, I’ve tirelessly advocated for local issues, bringing them to the forefront of national dialogue. I’ve lived in Killarney all my life and currently manage the family business, The Fáilte, located in the heart of town. Deeply passionate about our community’s welfare and development, I’ve devoted considerable time to enhancing community spirit and sports. I actively support St. Paul's basketball, Dr. Crokes football, and Killarney Celtic soccer and the Kerry stars. I’ve also been instrumental in advancing sports facilities in the area, ensuring Killarney remains a vibrant hub for community and athletic excellence.

Migration and Community

In Killarney, balancing the needs of asylum seekers with sustaining our local economy is a critical issue.

As your councillor, I have proposed a solution to the challenge of asylum seekers occupying local hotels, which has reduced tourist footfall and affected small businesses.

I advocate redirecting funds to renovate unused structures, like St. Finian’s Hospital, instead of paying hoteliers. My goal is to utilise European funds for this purpose, creating facilities that can later

Health Services

In Killarney, like many parts of Ireland, our health services are under significant strain.

The influx of new residents has stretched our healthcare system to its limits, resulting in long waits to see doctors and overburdened services. This is a major concern for our community.

As your councillor, I am committed to advocating for increased resources and better support for our healthcare facilities. I will push for more funding to hire additional medical professionals and expand our healthcare infrastructure to

serve as affordable housing for locals and tourism industry workers.

I recognise the strain on our community services and emphasise that increasing the intake of asylum seekers without adequate facilities is unsustainable. My approach ensures both immediate relief and long-term benefits for our community.

My plan reflects my commitment to thoughtful leadership and sustainable solutions, balancing humanitarian needs with the economic vitality of Killarney.

meet the growing demand.

Additionally, I plan to work closely with local healthcare providers to identify and implement efficiency improvements, ensuring that everyone in Killarney has timely access to the medical care they need.

I understand the critical importance of a robust healthcare system and will tirelessly advocate for the necessary support and resources to improve our local health services. Together, we can ensure a healthier future for all residents of Killarney.

Promoting Sustainability

Killarney’s natural beauty and wildlife are treasured assets that attract visitors from around the world.

Preserving this environment is crucial not only for our local community but also for our tourism industry.

Recently, we saw the success of our campaign to eliminate disposable coffee cups, saving approximately 23,000 cups from going to landfill. This initiative was very popular with locals and demonstrates the positive impact of community-led environmental efforts.

As your councillor, I am committed to championing more initiatives like this. I will advocate for new sustainability projects that continue to protect our environment, such as expanding recycling programs, promoting reusable products, and supporting green businesses. Furthermore, I will work to secure funding for environmental projects and collaborate with local organisations to raise awareness and educate our community on sustainable practices. Together, we can build on our successes and ensure that Killarney remains a beautiful and vibrant place for future generations.

Safety and Security

Killarney is known for being a safe and welcoming community.

However, recent incidents of unsociable behaviour have raised concerns among locals. It’s important to address these issues without fearmongering or exaggeration, as some have done online.

As your councillor, I am committed to ensuring that everyone feels safe in their homes and around our town. I plan to work closely with local Gardai to enhance community policing efforts, increasing their presence and engagement in the town.

Additionally, I will support the implementation of community watch programs and promote initiatives that foster a sense of shared responsibility for public safety. By encouraging open communication and collaboration between residents and law enforcement, we can effectively address and prevent unsociable behaviour. I will also advocate for improved lighting and security measures in key areas to deter potential incidents and ensure our streets remain safe and inviting. Together, we can maintain the Killarney we all know and love, making it a safe and secure place for everyone.

Economic Development

The recent decline in tourism has had a significant impact on Killarney’s small businesses, leading to closures and affecting local employment.

Coupled with rising business rates, energy costs, and the general cost of living, our local economy is facing substantial challenges.

As your councillor, I am dedicated to revitalising Killarney’s economy and supporting our local businesses. I will advocate for measures to provide relief to small business owners, such as reducing business rates and offering incentives to help them manage rising costs.

To stimulate job growth, I plan to work on attracting new businesses to Killarney and supporting existing ones through initiatives that promote local enterprise and innovation. By partner-

ing with local organisations and leveraging available funding, we can create a more resilient and diverse economy. I also intend to push for investment in skills development programs to ensure our workforce is equipped to meet the demands of a changing job market, particularly in emerging sectors. Together, we can overcome these economic challenges and build a thriving community where businesses prosper and employment opportunities abound.

YOUR CANDIDATES

Natalia Krasnenkova

ADDRESS: Park Road, Killarney

AGE: 46

OCCUPATION: Community worker by North East West Kerry Development

PARTY: Non party

I am a Ukrainian, and due to the full-scale war in Ukraine, I arrived in Killarney in March 2022. I have a degree in Financial Management. I worked as a television reporter and PR and communication manager. In 2011, I founded my own PR company in Kyiv. I am a freelance journalist for the Killarney Advertiser and other media and co-host a Radio Kerry podcast "New Residents." Last year, I completed a course at Kerry College and graduated in "Community Development and Leadership." I also finished a course in the Migrant Leadership Academy. For the past two years in Kerry, I have been working as a community worker with NEWKD and am actively engaged in volunteering in Killarney. In my free time, I participate in athletics at a local club, regularly join the Killarney Park run, and enjoy conquering mountain peaks.

Housing for Everyone

As a candidate for Kerry County Council, I would like to draw attention to the housing crisis.

I myself spent six months looking for an apartment in Killarney and I know how difficult and expensive it is.

First, we can work together to increase the availability of affordable housing through partnerships with local developers and government grants. By encouraging the construction of affordable housing, we can ensure that more homes are available for low- and moderate-income families.

Secondly, we should give priority to the refurbishment of existing vacant buildings. There are several empty buildings in Killarney which, with the right invest-

Medical Care

One of the primary issues patients in Killarney face is long waiting times for GP appointments and elective procedures, stemming from a shortage of medical professionals and facilities.

Additionally, rural areas around Killarney have limited access to healthcare services, exacerbating health disparities. The pressure on emergency services often leads to overcrowding and extended waits in emergency departments. To address these problems, a multifaceted approach is necessary. Firstly, increasing investment in healthcare infrastructure is crucial. This includes expanding hospital capacities and upgrading facilities in rural areas. Secondly, attracting healthcare professionals to work in Killarney through competitive salaries, professional development opportunities, and improved working conditions can help

Economic Well-being

The economic well-being of Killarney and County Kerry hinges on effective employment and entrepreneurial opportunities for all community members.

Many aspiring entrepreneurs, both locals and migrants, are eager to open their own small businesses to achieve prosperity, create jobs, and pay taxes. However, they often struggle to navigate the complexities of starting a business due to fragmented and overwhelming information from various offices and institutions. This is a common challenge faced by everyone in our community.

To address this, I propose creating a dedicated office for mentoring programs in Killarney. It may be part of the Local Enterprise Office, but with a greater number of offices and different languages. This office would provide individual assistance to aspiring entrepreneurs, guiding them through developing a business idea, crafting a business plan tailored to their specific venture, and navigating the steps to officially open and resource their business. By offering systematic support, we can significantly reduce the time and effort required for new businesses to launch.

ment, could be converted into residential properties. This approach not only provides immediate housing solutions, but also revitalizes our community and preserves our architectural heritage. In addition, expanding access to social housing is extremely important. We need to work closely with housing associations and not-for-profit organisations to build and manage new social housing projects, ensuring that the most vulnerable members of our community are supported.

Finally, it is important to streamline planning and approval processes. By reducing red tape, we can accelerate the development of new housing projects, meeting demand more efficiently.

alleviate staff shortages. Additionally, Ukrainian medical specialists, who are learning English and validating their qualifications, can gradually be integrated into the local healthcare workforce. Currently, a group of Ukrainian medical workers is preparing to take the C1 level medical English exam. Furthermore, implementing telehealth services can enhance healthcare access, particularly for residents in remote areas.

Unity in Community

The challenge of integrating migrants into the Killarney community is significant, with Ukrainians alone comprising 17% of the population.

The streets of Killarney reflect this diversity, as many languages are spoken here. As a local resident, I have witnessed how the language barrier creates communication challenges, making it difficult to connect with neighbours and colleagues.

As a community worker, I recognize that the first step in addressing these issues

is helping individuals learn English. Fluency in English will improve communication at work, facilitate social interactions, and encourage participation in sports events and volunteer projects. This way, migrants will not remain isolated but will actively engage with the broader community. Although language courses and speaking clubs are available in Kerry, attending classes once or twice a week is often insufficient. I propose enhancing language learning programs and regularly evaluating progress to ensure effective integration.

Public Transport and Infrastructure

During my canvassing, I've gathered numerous concerns from residents about improving Killarney's infrastructure.

A major issue is the lack of accessible playgrounds for children. Many young mothers find it challenging to walk long distances across the town to reach a playground. In my neighbourhood, children often play on the streets, highlighting the urgent need for safe play areas. Our children deserve better. Another pressing issue is the inadequate bicycle lanes. Killarney has many cyclists, not just visitors heading to Muckross Abbey and back. We need a comprehensive network of bike lanes to ensure safety and encourage cycling throughout the town. Residents of Aghadoe have expressed

the need for a safe pavement when walking with children and prams from the Fossa stop past the Gold Nugget Bar. Currently, the footpath abruptly ends, forcing people to walk on the road, which is unsafe.

Additionally, temporary plastic barriers have stood along a couple of roads near McDonald's for three years. It's time to replace them with a permanent fence to enhance safety.

Residents of Faha face great difficulties with public transport, as the public bus runs only once a week, on Saturdays. It's entirely within our power to address this barrier.

Addressing these everyday problems requires careful listening and prompt action to improve the quality of life for all Killarney residents.

Ahern’s to host BMW electric showcase event

Ahern’s BMW will host an electric car showcased event at its Castleisland showroom on Saturday.

The open day will run from 10 am to 5 pm and will showcase BMW’s electric and plug-in hybrid line–up.

“Step into a world of BMW E-Mobility. Our electric cars combine modern driving with efficient technologies. From elegant saloons to high-performance SUVs – find

the car that suits your lifestyle,” said sales manager John Cronon.

“Find out more about modern charging technologies within a convenient charging infrastructure. Make the most of purely electric range that will get you closer to your destinations in day-to-day life and on longer trips.”

To register your interest in this event please contact Ahern’s on 066 7143000 or e mail john.cronin@ahernsbmw.ie

Comedian John Bishop announced as Grand Marshal of Ireland BikeFest

Comedy superstar John Bishop will lead hundreds of motorbikes through the streets of Killarney in Ireland BikeFest’s annual Sunday morning parade this June Bank Holiday weekend.

Bishop is currently touring the Wild Atlantic Way by motorcycle and performing shows along the route. He is due to arrive in Killarney to join in with the weekend festivities ahead of his June Bank Holiday Monday gig in The Gleneagle INEC Arena.

The Sunday morning parade is one of the highlights of Ireland BikeFest, and thousands of onlookers are expected to line the streets of Killarney to view the spectacle.

The parade, led by Bishop, will depart the custom-built BikeFest Village, on the grounds of The Gleneagle Hotel at 11 am on Sunday. It will travel along Muckross Rd, Woodlawn Rd, Cork Rd, Park Rd, Fairhill,

College St, Plunkett St, Main St, High St, New Rd, Port Rd, New St, Beech Rd, Mission Rd, Muckross Rd and returning to the village for an afternoon of live entertainment.

The hugely popular Custom Bike Show is also due to take place on Sunday afternoon. Don’t miss a thrilling weekend of motorcycles, music, and merriment, capped off by John Bishop's participation in the parade and his highly anticipated performance at The Gleneagle INEC Arena.

KDMC crew hoping for Scottish success

This weekend’s Jim Clark Rally in the Scottish Borders marks the mid-point of Keith Cronin and Mikie Galvin’s combined 2024 British Rally Championship and Irish Tarmac Rally Championship campaign.

While the Killarney and District Motor Club crew lead the Tarmac series in their Ford Fiesta Rally 2, they have had a troubled start to the British Championship, and lie eighth in the standings, 32 points off the lead, following the opening two rounds.

A strong result in Scotland would provide a timely boost to their British challenge and could prove crucial to the ultimate determination of the title battle, one that Cronin has won on four previous occasions.

“We haven’t had the greatest of starts to the BRC, between punctures and mechanical issues, the North West Stages Rally and the Severn Valley didn’t go well, so we could do with a clean run this weekend,” said Cronin.

“The points situation doesn’t appear great, but it’s not as bad as it looks, There’s two rounds gone, with four more to go, and the best five results of the season count towards the total. Each leg of

Killarney co-driver Mikie Galvin and Keith Cronin (Ballylickey, Co. Cork), fourth overall, at the finish ramp at the recent Assess Ireland International Rally of the Lakes 2024 at The Gleneagle Hotel. Also included are Sean Hayde, TROA, Cormac Casey (KC Print and Clerk of the course), Colman Hegarty, TROA, Demot Healy (Deputy CoC) and Conor Deasy (Assess Ireland CEO). Picture: Eamonn Keogh

Rali Ceredigion at the end of the summer represents a separate scoring opportunity, and the final round, the Cambrian Rally, is worth points-and-a-half, so there’s five scoring opportunities left, and the last two events are effectively worth three and half rallies.

“Hopefully we’ll be in the shake-up at the end of the year, but whoever the con-

tenders will be, I expect that the championship won’t be decided until the final stage of the final rally.”

Chris Ingram, winner of the North West Stages, currently leads the standings on 42 points.

He is followed by William Creighton, who finished second on the North West and Severn Valley rallies, on 38, while Severn

Valley victor Osian Pryce occupies third place on the leaderboard, with 27 points.

The Jim Clark Rally, named after the twotime Formula One World Champion, Indianapolis 500 winner, and Duns’ most famous son, gets underway on Friday evening, with the Langton Mill spectator stage, which features a watersplash within its short layout.

The next test, Abbey St. Bathans, is the longest of the rally, at 16 kilometres, and this is followed by Blackadder, which is just over 11km in length.

After Service in Duns, this loop will be repeated as darkness falls, and the crews will return to the headquarters town from around 10pm onwards.

Saturday’s action consists of four stages repeated, with Langton Mill again opening the loop. The rest of quartet, Edrom, Ayton and Fogo, are all in the region of seven miles long.

The winners’ champagne celebrations will take place in Duns Square at approximately 2.20pm.

“I like the Jim Clark Rally, I usually seem to go well there, so hopefully things will go well again this time around,” said Cronin, who won the event in 2012 and 2022, and finished second last year to World Rally Championship driver, Adrien Fourmaux.

Top 10 Essential tips for Leaving Cert Students in lead up to June 5

The final weekend leading up to the Leaving Cert exams can be very tough, as you try to balance last minute revision with much needed rest after a long, exhausting year.

The natural anxiety felt by students is often heightened by the annual media hype around the state exams and it is really important that you do your best to manage that stress effectively, so that you are ready to perform to the best of your ability once the exams start. The following tips may help to keep you focused and a little calmer in the lead up to June 5.

1. Review, don't cram – Focus on summary notes, flashcards, or mind maps. This reinforces what you’ve already studied. Prioritise areas where you feel less confident, but don't try to learn new material.

2. Practise past papers - Review marking schemes and time allocation for each question you will need to answer on each paper. Practise a sample of questions against the clock. This will maximise your scoring potential.

3. Organise your materials - Check the exam timetable and highlight your own exams. Prepare the stationary that you need, gather pens, pencils, calculators, and so on. Pack your bag the night before to avoid last-minute stress.

4. Maintain a healthy balance - Aim for 8 hours of sleep each night. Proper rest is crucial for memory, concentration and stamina. Eat well, include proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbs in your meals to maintain energy levels. Drink plenty of water, hydration is essential.

5. Try to manage stress - Schedule short breaks during study sessions and do something enjoyable and relaxing, like a short walk, playing or listening to music. Get fresh air and some light exercise. Use relaxation techniques like breathing exercise, mindfulness and meditation.

6. Focus on a positive mindset - Focus on your strengths and remind yourself of your preparation. Concentrate on what you know and not on what you think you don’t! Try to avoid negative self-talk and steer clear of discussions that heighten anxiety, such as comparing how much you’ve studied with friends.

7. Plan your weekend - Create a realistic timetable for the weekend, balancing

Niamh Dwyer is a Guidance Counsellor in Scoil Phobail Sliabh Luachra, Rathmore, and Chairperson of the Kerry Branch of Guidance Counsellors. She is also a Career Consultant. For details see www.mycareerplan.ie or follow MyCareerPlan on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.

study sessions with breaks and relaxation and don’t overdo the study. You need plenty of energy for the exams.

8. Stay connected - Talk to friends and family, if you are feeling overwhelmed reach out and get support from loved ones. If it’s helpful, have a short, focused study session with friends to clarify doubts.

9. Keep things in perspective – The Leaving Cert is important but won’t define you and regardless of what happens you have several options open to you. Try to reframe the media hype as the whole country getting behind you, for what they know to be a tough time for you.

10. Get Set for exam day - Double-check the venue, seating arrangements, and required materials for the day of the exam.

On the evening before the exam, do a light review of key concepts but avoid heavy studying. Ensure you know how to get to the exam venue and plan to arrive early (at least 30 mins on the first day).

Decide what you’ll wear to avoid rushing in the morning and have your water and snacks ready to go.

Above all else, give the exams your best shot! Once they are over you have a lovely ‘study-free’ summer and bright future to look forward to. Go n-éirí libh ar fad, the very best of luck to each and every one of you!

is no mean

36th Annual Kerry Parents & Friends Golf Classic in association with Liebherr Container Cranes Ltd

Friday 14th of June 2024 at O’Mahony’s Point, Killarney Golf & Fishing Club

MORNING & AFTERNOON TEE TIMES!

Sponsorship/Registration for Team of 4: €650

Includes green fees, lunch, goodie bag and snacks on the course.

PLAY GOLF FOR A CAUSE!

All proceeds go to support people with intellectual disabilities/autism and their families Amazing prizes to be won!

More information on Sponsorship/Registration please email info@kpfa.ie

Farranfore-based businesswoman earns national award

Farranfore entrepreneur Mary B Teahan has been named AllStar Munster Businessperson Of The Year 2024 by the All-Ireland Business Foundation.

Teahan’s exemplary leadership and innovative strategies have played a pivotal role in propelling the growth and prosperity of her company, Irish Drain Services.

Based in the heart of Farranfore, Irish Drain Services are one of Ireland's most committed residential, commercial and industrial drain cleaning companies.

Mary has overseen the growth of a company that is well known for its cost effective, market leading drain services and solutions. The All-Star accredited business caters for a range of requirements,

whether it be inspections, testing, maintenance or repairs of any drain system.

“For me, this recognition is a testament to the dedication of the team at Irish Drain Services and our collective commitment to delivering a top-notch service for our clients. I am excited about the opportunities this accreditation brings for collaboration and growth, and I look forward to contributing to the vibrant community of Business All-Star Accredited leaders dedicated to excellence,” she said.

Mary B Teahan, Owner Irish Drain Services receiving her Business All-Star Munster Business Person of the Year 2024 Accreditation from Kieran Ring, Vice-Chair AIBF Adjudication Board and Dr. Briga Hynes, Chair AIBF Adjudication Board.

Kerry has a new millionaire after it was confirmed that the LIDL store in Killarney sold a 'Daily Million' winning ticket worth a cool €1,000,000. Pictured at the Lidl Store in Killarney on Tuesday are Lidl Store Manager Stephen O'Connell, staff members Mairead McKenna, Beata Bak and Jason Maye celebrating with Sarah Ruane (centre) from The National Lottery. Photo: Don MacMonagle

€1 million lotto ticket sold in Killarney!

Cash was King in Killarney as a local store was revealed as the selling location for Sunday’s Daily Million top prize win worth a whopping €1 Million.

The Lidl store based on the Tralee Road sold the winning Quick Pick ticket in Sunday night’s 9pm Daily Million draw.

“I’ve been working in shops since the age of 16 and this is the biggest win I’ve ever seen one of the customers get,” said

Store Manager Stephen O’Connell.

“We’re a very busy store here and at this time of year our customer base is very mixed with tourists and locals. It’s a life-changing amount for sure and I hope it brings joy and happiness to the winner.”

The National Lottery has confirmed that the Kerry winner has already made contact and arrangements are being made for them to claim their prize.

FLESK VALLEY ROWING CLUB LIT UP THE LAKE FOR NATHAN’S WALK: Donal Kelly and Crew from Flesk Valley rowing club presenting a cheque for €1100 to Denis and Marie O’Carroll from monies raised for rowing on the morning of Nathan’s Walk – Darkness into Light. Photo: Marie Carroll O'Sullivan.

• Grasp the tick with a tick remover or a fine tipped tweezers as close to the skin as possible.

• Gently but firmly pull the tick upwards.

• Wear white/light coloured clothing to make it easier to spot a tick.

• Wash the bite area and your hands with soap and water and apply an antiseptic to the bite site.

• Consult your local GP as soon as possible if you develop symptoms, such as a rash or unexplained illness.

• Diseases carried by ticks can be treated with antibiotics but early diagnosis and treatment are important.

• Refer to treatment guidelines available on the Tick Talk website. Website: www.ticktalkireland.org | Email: info@ticktalkireland.org @ticktalkireland

FINANCESECTION

| FINANCIAL ADVISOR DIRECTORY FOR KILLARNEY

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

Digital driving licences are on the way

The minister for e-Government, Ossian Smyth of the Green Party has confirmed his department has been testing the application for digital driving licences.

At present it appears the digital licences are being trialed by civil servants with a full launch expected later this year. The digital version can be stored in a wallet app on a smart phone. The plastic card will still be issued and the minister has confirmed that the digital licence will be an optional extra at no additional cost. Under section 40 of the Road Traffic Act 1961 it is an offence to not produce your

licence on demand to a member of the An Garda Siochana. If you fail to do so you are required to present your licence at a Garda Station within 10 days.

Several countries including Denmark, Sweden, France and Belgium are already using digital driving licences with Sweden going a step further and trialing the use of the licence as a key to the registered vehicle.

Back at home it would appear large numbers of disqualified drivers are still not surrendering their driving licences with just 3% complying last year in Dublin. The introduction of a digital licence should greatly assist in the data collection for these drivers.

Minister Smyth also revealed that he had discussions with the Danish ambassador who said he could not believe how much wallpaper he had to have on his car windscreen in Ireland. The ambassador was referring to tax, insurance and NCT discs and confirmed Denmark got rid of that requirement years ago.

TO LET: 4-bedroom house, 5-minute walk to Killarney town. Quiet area with ample parking. Professional working people only. Contact 087 6447532.

TO LET: For Grazing – Site adjacent to house in Woodlawn, Killarney is available for graz-

CLASSIFIEDS FOR SALE

FOR SALE: A pair of entrance gates, both. 5.5ft x 3ft. Also one side gate, 3.5ft x 3ft. Heavy iron, needs painting. Contact 064 6633176.

FOR SALE: 2 single armchairs, one black and one patterned. In good condition. Phone 085 7423432.

FOR SALE: Three brand-new mattresses. (never used - two unopened) - Two King(5ft), Odearest “Hazelwood”. Price new €900 each. Will sell €700 each. Also, one S. King (6 ft) King coil €1,200 .new will sell €800.

ing of a horse with a responsible owner. Contact 087 2609936.

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

TO LET: 4-bedroom house in St. Margaret’s Road. 4-bedroom house in Firies. 2-bedroom

Would suit new guest house/hotel. Phone 087 2608508.

AVAILABLE

AVAILABLE: MUSIC LESSONS - piano, violin, fiddle, guitar, banjo. Garda vetted. Leaving Cert Music grinds and Online Option also available. Tel John: 087-6801392 or Maggie: 087-6961681.

AVAILABLE: What is stopping you booking a holiday? Fear of Flying? Reluctance to put on your swim suit? Fears and weight control addressed with hypnosis. Book your flight with

house in Anabla, Killarney. Also, 3-bedroom house in Ballydowney, available to the end of October only. Phone 086 8136888.

TO LET: Rooms to let in large house, 5-minutes from Killarney town with parking. Call 087 6447532.

confidence. Call Marie on 085 1367488 for more details

WANTED

WANTED: Person to work at Pony Trekking Centre for summer season. Experience with horses essential. Phone Dan 087 0576703.

ANIMALS

ANIMALS: HUG: Homes for Unwanted Greyhounds. For further details please contact us on 087 6932090 or email info@homesfo-

TO LET: Storage Shed, 5 metres x 8 metres, in Killarney town area. Phone 087 6447532. WANTED: Houses and apartments to rent in the Killarney area. Contact 086 8136888.

runwantedgreyhounds.ie

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

MOTORING

FOR SALE: 151 Renault Capture 1.5 diesel, alloys, leather, air con, reversing camera, NCT 2025 and 2012 Fiat Punto 1.3 diesel, 137km, NCT 2025. Call 087 2630218.

John Healy of Healy Insurances.

Development Manager: Chris Davies Graphic Designer: Leszek Szeligowski, Sports Journalist: Adam Moynihan, Sean Moriarty

Sports Columnists: Adam Moynihan, Eamonn Fitzgerald, Liam Murphy, Eamonn Keogh Journalist: Sean Moriarty Contributing Columnists:

Jill Duggan, Niamh Dwyer, Natalya Krasnenkova Photographers: Marie Carroll-O'Sullivan, Valerie O’Sullivan Dylan Clifford, Eamonn Keogh, Don MacMonagle, Sally MacMonagle

IF YOU’D LIKE TO ADVERTISE

Nestled in a quaint rural setting, this charming two-story traditional farmhouse on 1 acre approx oozes rustic charm. Complete with a large haybarn and adjoining slatted unit , cow house, sheds and workshop, this residence offers a tranquil and homely atmosphere for its future residents.

OLANS, UPPER LEWIS RD

Presenting “St Olans”, a charming three bedroom semi detached home superbly situated on Upper Lewis Road, within walking distance of Killarney town centre.

Additional adjoining single storey ‘granny flat;’ consisting of two versatile rooms and a WC. With a generous rear garden not overlooked, this property presents a unique opportunity for buyers looking for a blend of classic old world charm and convenience of location.

Rent costs continue to rise

The latest report by property website daft.ie finds that rent increases are likely to accelerate as the supply of new homes, that had aided a recent easing, dries up.

Private home rents rose by 0.6 per cent on average in the first three months of 2024, the lowest rate in more than three years. However, Daft warns that the supply of new homes that helped slow the recent increases is drying up once again, indicating that rents will increase at a faster rate this year.

According to the report, more than 125 purpose-built rental developments opened since 2016, adding about 10,000 new rental homes. On October 1st last, there were almost 1,500 homes available to rent in Dublin compared to

just 800 on the same date a year previously.

Since then, the availability of rental homes in Dublin has fallen, rather than risen – although “at least some of that is seasonal”. There were just over 1,200 homes available to rent in Dublin on May 1st, up only 4 per cent year-on-year.

Ronan Lyons, economist, said the building of new rental homes in Dublin had slowed inflation considerably over the past 18 months.

Mr Lyons argues that policymakers who want to increase the supply of homes for rent over the rest of the decade must develop a “thorough understanding” of rental dynamics.

Daft’s report shows that the average rent in Dublin, where demand is highest,

hit €2,395 a month in the three months to the end of March, up 2.5 per cent on the same period in 2023.

The cost of renting a home in Cork over the same timescale rose 8 per cent to €1,870 a month.

Limerick rents rose 17.5 per cent to €1,933, in Galway they grew 5 per cent to €1,861, Waterford rents climbed almost 7 per cent to €1,495, while they added 6.8 per cent in the rest of the Republic to €1,467.

Nationally, rent inflation slipped from a 14 per cent high two years ago.

There were 2,000 homes available to rent on May 1, unchanged on a year previously and fewer than half the 2015 to 2019 average of almost 4,400, the report said.

G BER

D2 BER

on Wednesday 29th

May at 7pm at the Killarney Plaza Hotel

Please scan to view my YouTube Channel and hear my views on many

Find me on a range of platforms: www.YouTube/UnamcGurk www.x.com/@Gurkuna www.tiktok.com/@UnaMcGurk www.Facebook.com/UnaMcGurk Or email Una at UnaMcGurk4EU@gmail.com

PROPERTY REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE

• Painting & decorating Interior & exterior (Fencing, Walls)

• Spray Painting

• Fixing of doors and windows

• Power (Driveways,washingDecking Patios, Paths, Gutters & Fascias)

• Carpentry (Timber floors, Paneling, Skirting Boards)

• Garage Clearouts • Gardening & • General maintenance Tele: 0892006623 Email: complexcare47@gmail.com

The Killarney Advertiser Crossword

ACROSS

FOR

Mini Diggers/Dumpers, Rockbreakers, Laser levels, wacker plates, Vibrating Rollers & Articulated Boom Hoist Deliver to Cork & Kerry areas. Call Noel on 087 6255822

DOWN

1. Drinking tube

6. Caps

10. Fence opening

14. Ascend

15. Margarine

16. Adam's abode

17. Engaged in festivities

19. Negative reply

20. Retain

21. Golf clubs

www.nkplanthire.com Email: nkplanthire@gmail.com

22. Clip neatly

23. Trampled

25. Shabby

26. ____ Murphy of "Shrek"

29. Please greatly

32. Responds

34. ____ port

38. Slippery

39. Rewriter

41. Dazzle

42. ____ surgery (face lift, e.g.)

44. Makes amends

46. Soothes

47. ____ & Roeper

48. Goody

51. Attaches

53. Lampreys

54. Florida metropolis

57. Guitar device

61. Bad

62. ____ species

64. Silent

65. High cards

66. Mother's brother

67. Witnesses

68. Scottish girl

69. Exams

1. Burlap bag

2. Elm or pine

3. Provoke

4. Germ-free

5. Spider's snare

6. Stash

7. Singing voice

8. Young adult

9. Repairs lawns

10. Refined

11. Idolize

12. Moderately warm

13. Opponent

18. ____ Grande

24. Hideaway

25. Began

26. Funnyman ____ Idle

27. Art ____

28. Week portions

29. Sagas

30. ____ Cruces

31. ____ code

33. Gels

35. Alley

36. Wide-mouthed pitcher

37. "____ we forget"

40. Fight

43. Childhood disease

45. Indecent

48. Abounds

49. Musical show

50. Select group

51. Pile up

52. Racket

54. Lunch, e.g. 55. Indian of Peru

56. Citrus drinks

58. Circle segments 59. Skin

60. Lyric poems 63. Stomach

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

Septic tanks and other domestic waste water treatment systems

What is a domestic wastewater treatment system?

Domestic wastewater treatment systems include all septic tanks, waste water tanks and treatment systems receiving, storing, treating or disposing of domestic waste water. It also includes all fittings and percolation areas associated with such tanks and systems and drains used to discharge waste water from a premises, whether or not a receiving tank is present.

Do I have to register my septic tank? All domestic waste water treatment systems, including septic tanks, must be registered with your local authority. There is a fee of €50 to register your wastewater treatment system. You can register and pay online at protectourwater.ie.

If you do not register your system and are convicted, you could be fined up to €5,000.

If you want to get a grant to repair or replace your treatment system in the future, your treatment system must be registered within a certain time frame. Replacement systems do not need to be re-registered.

What happens if I sell or transfer ownership of my property?

You will require a Certificate of Registration when selling/transferring ownership of a property. This certificate will confirm that the property has been registered.

If you are in the process of selling your property you should contact the Protect Our Water Support Centre by phone or email after you have registered your property's domestic wastewater treatment system and request a Certificate of Registration.

The new owner is responsible for updating the ownership details on the register.

Will my treatment system be inspected?

Your waste water treatment system can be inspected by the local authority. Your local authority will write to you and let you know that they will be inspecting your system. They will give you at least 10 working days’ notice before the inspection.

If your waste water system is going to be inspected, you should:

• Have your waste water systems registration certificate

• Know where your waste water treatment system is

• Have any paperwork about your system’s installation or maintenance Inspectors are appointed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and must show you their identification if you ask for it.

If your treatment system is working

properly, you will get a certificate that confirms this. If the inspector finds issues with your system, you will get an advisory notice within 21 days of the inspection. This notice will outline the problems with your system and give you a certain amount of time to fix them.

Can I get a grant to repair or replace my septic tank?

You may be able to get a grant to repair, upgrade or replace your waste water treatment system. You can apply for funding for 85% of the cost of the repairs to your system or a new system, up to a maximum of €5,000. To qualify for these grants your treatment system must have been registered with the local authority.

What changes come in from January 2024?

From 1 January 2024, the septic tank grant will increase from €5,000 to €12,000. This grant will also become available to people who did not register a septic tank by 1 February 2013. What are the different types of grants?

There are 3 different waste water treatment grant schemes. One grant is available for people to upgrade or repair their system following an inspection. While the other two grants are only available if you live in a particular area, and are notified by your local authority that you are eligible to apply.

You cannot get a grant for the routine maintenance, servicing or de-sludging of a treatment system.

How do I apply for a septic tank grant?

Application forms for each scheme are available on gov.ie. For more information on these schemes, you can contact the rural water section of your local authority. You can also contact your local Citizens Information Centre

Where can I get more information on septic tanks

The Environmental Protection Agency has published a set of Frequently Asked Questions about waste water treatment systems. Their website is www.epa.ie There is also a detailed set of FAQs on www.protectourwater.ie.

You can contact Cork County Council or the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for more information. The telephone number for the Cork Regional EPA office is 021 4875540

If you need further information about any of the issues raised here or you have other questions, you can dropin to your local Citizens Information Service in Killarney or you can also contact us by telephone or email: Tel: 0818 07 7820, email: Killarney@ citinfo.ie

15TH ANNIVERSARY O’SULLIVAN

In loving memory of a wonderful wife and caring mother Máiread (Maud) O’Sullivan late of Ballaugh, Killarney who passed away on 27th May 2009.

No matter how life changes No matter what we do

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

When thoughts go back As they often do We treasure the memories We have of you

Just as you were You will always be Someone special in our memory.

Forever loved and always remembered by your husband Sean, children Jonathan, Tony, Lisa and Sarah, daughters-in-law Jennifer and Aideen, son-in-law Rory, grandchildren Grace, Molly, Máiread, Fionn, Séanie, Elsie Mae and Paddy.

15TH ANNIVERSARY O’SULLIVAN

In loving memory of Mairead “Maud” O’Sullivan Ballaugh Cross, Killarney who passed away on 27th May 2009.

A pleasant smile, a heart of gold No finer sister this world could hold In heaven you rest, no worries, no pain Deep in our hearts you will always remain.

Sadly missed, never forgotten by your brother Chris and sister-in-law Mary.

***

Aunt

Forgive us Lord when we cry We never wanted our aunt to die With broken hearts we whisper low We love you Maud and we miss you so.

Love always your nephew Darren, nieces Jessica and Megan, and grandnephew Jamie.

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

20TH & 15TH ANNIVERSARIES

MCCARTHY

In loving memory of John and Nellie McCarthy late of O’Sullivan’s Place, Killarney John who died on 14th June 2004 and Nellie who died on 15th May 2009.

Those we love don’t go away They walk beside us every day Deep in our hearts, you will always stay Loved and remembered every day.

Lovingly remembered by your daughters Catríona, Maureen and Eileen, sons-in-law, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

22ND ANNIVERSARY O’SULLIVAN

In loving memory of our dear Mother, Grandmother and Mother-in-law

Chris O’Sullivan late of White Bridge, Killarney who died on 21st May 2002.

It’s hard to face tomorrow when the ones we love are gone, Its harder still to realise that life must still go on, The sadness and the heartache may not always show, People say it lessens, how little do they know.

They say we have our memories, but they do not understand, We cannot touch a memory’s face or hold a memory’s hand, So through this vale of sorrow, we sadly walk today, Our thoughts are always with you Mom, as life goes on its way.

Loved and remembered always by your sons Tim, Con, Danny and John, daughters Caroline and Noreen, son-in-law, daughters-in-law, partner, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Anniversary Mass on Saturday 25th May at 6.15pm in St. Mary’s Cathedral, Killarney.

27TH & 7TH ANNIVERSARIES

O’CONNOR

In loving memory of our parents Eileen and Jerry O’Connor late of Knocknagown, Clonkeen, Killarney Eileen who died on 30th May 1997 and Jerry who died on 26th March 2017.

We have memories we treasure With thoughts that are dear We think of you always Not just once a year.

Sadly missed, never forgotten by your daughter Helen, John, Olivia, James and Fiadh. ‘Slán go fóill’.

NOVENA TO ST. CLAIRE

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

JESUS

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT & 1ST ANNIVERSARY

O’DONOGHUE (NEE O’CONNOR)

In loving memory of Eileen O’Donoghue late of Coracow, Headford, Killarney who passed away on 27th May 2023.

As we lovingly remember our beloved mom Eileen on her first anniversary, we her family would like to thank everyone who sympathised and supported us on our sad loss.

Thanks to our families, relations, neighbours and friends who called to the house, attended the removal, mass and burial.

To those who sent mass cards, online condolences, letters of sympathy, phone calls, and those who travelled long distances to be with us. To those who donated to Ardagh Ward of UHK.

Thanks to Fr. Jim Lenihan and Fr. Gerard O’Leary for the beautiful mass. To Derry and Rosie Healy for the lovely music and singing.

A special word of thanks to Paudie McAuliffe for his beautiful rendition of mom’s favourite song at the graveside. To Jack and Paudie O’Leary, her great grandsons, for the wonderful music.

Thanks to Sacristans Denis and Patricia O’Donoghue, Pádraig Cashman for receiving the remains at the church, and to Jerry Mullane for streaming the mass online.

To Tom Murphy Undertakers for his professionalism and courtesy.

Thanks to the First Responders, Ambulance crew, to Dr. Barry Moynihan and his team, and all the staff in the Ardagh Ward in UHK. To the Pallative Care team who cared for mom so well in her final days.

Thanks to the district health nurses, the staff at Park Medical Practice, Park Road, and to Liam Sheahan and staff at Sheahan’s Pharmacy.

To her wonderful home help team, Kathy, Helena, Majella, Kathleen and Breda, who looked after her so well.

Thanks to her friends in St. Joseph’s Day Care Centre, Rathmore.

Thanks to Pat Gill and staff in the Arbutus Hotel, Killarney for the beautiful meal.

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

Eileen is fondly remembered by Joan, Denis, Helen, Linda, and their families.

1st Anniversary Mass on Saturday 25th May at 6.00pm in St. Agatha’s Church, Glenflesk.

MIRACLE PRAYER

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

1ST ANNIVERSARY O’DONOGHUE

(NEE O’CONNOR)

In loving memory of Eileen O’Donoghue late of Coracow, Headford, Killarney who passed away on 27th May 2023.

Mother

You can only have one mother Patient, kind and true No other friend in all the world Will be the same to you.

When other friends forsake you To mother you will return For all her loving kindness She asks nothing in return.

As we look upon her picture Sweet memories we recall Of a face so full of sunshine And a smile for one and all.

Sweet Jesus take this message To our dear mother up above Tell her how we miss her And give her all our love.

Lovingly remembered and sadly missed by your daughter Joan and son-in-law DeDe. ** Nan

Of all the special gifts in life

However great or small To have you as our Nan Was the greatest gift of all.

A silent thought, a secret tear Keeps your memory ever near In our hearts forever.

Always loved Nan, your grandson Pádraig, granddaughter Maria and Scott, and great grandson Beau.

1st Anniversary Mass on Saturday 25th May at 6.00pm in St. Agatha’s Church, Glenflesk.

1ST ANNIVERSARY

O’DONOGHUE

In loving memory of a special Mum Eileen O’Donoghue late of Coracow, Headford who died on 27th May 2023.

You were the most truly wonderful Mum A treasure that can never be replaced You nurtured me with your tender love And supported me in every way.

One in a million, I will never forget The precious times we shared Memories of you I will always cherish Knowing how deeply you cared.

Mum, our special bond was priceless You were my dearest friend I never doubted your compassion Right until the very end.

Your love meant the world to me I miss your warmth, so gentle and kind Your spirit will live on forever In my heart and in my mind.

Sadly missed by your son Denis and daughter-in-law Margaret.

1ST ANNIVERSARY O’DONOGHUE (NEE O’CONNOR)

In loving memory of Eileen O’Donoghue late of Coracow, Headford, Killarney who died on 27th May 2023.

Mom

We lost a mother with a heart of gold How much we miss her can never be told She shared our troubles and helped us along If we follow her footsteps we can never go wrong.

We miss you from your fireside chair Your loving smile and gentle air Your vacant place, no one can fill We miss you mother and always will.

She was a mother so very rare Content in her home and always there

On earth she toiled, in Heaven she rests God bless you mother, you were one of the best.

Each time we look at your picture You seem to smile and say Don’t be sad but courage take And love each other for my sake.

Always loved and remembered by your daughter Helen.

**

Grandmother

A little tribute, true and tender

Just to show that we remember Time may pass and fade away But memories of you will always stay.

Fondly remembered by your grandson Keith and Sofia, granddaughter Leanne and Seán, and great grandson Avery.

1st Anniversary Mass on Saturday 25th May at 6.00pm in St. Agatha’s Church, Glenflesk.

1ST ANNIVERSARY

O’DONOGHUE In loving memory of Eileen O’Donoghue late of Coracow, Headford Thinking of you especially on 27th May when you were called to rest.

In God’s care you rest above In our hearts you rest with love Never more than a thought away Loved and remembered every day.

Your loving grandson Donnach, Diane, and your great grandchildren Jack and Paudie. xxxx

Anniversary Mass on Saturday 25th May at 6.00pm in St Agatha’s Church, Glenflesk.

NOVENA TO PADRE PIO

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

1ST ANNIVERSARY

O’DONOGHUE

In loving memory of a dear mother Eileen O’Donoghue late of Coracow, Headford who died on 27th May 2023.

Somewhere beyond the sunset

Where loved ones never die

You sleep in a beautiful garden Beneath a golden sky.

Though Heaven and earth divide us We are never far apart

For you are always in our thoughts And forever in our hearts.

Sadly missed and always remembered, your daughter Linda and son-in-law Brendan. xxx

**

NAN

You had a smile for everyone

You had a heart of gold

You left the sweetest memories

This world could ever hold.

Sadly missed by your grandchildren Darragh, Shane, Leah and Amy.

2ND

ANNIVERSARY

CARROLL (NEE DOYLE)

In loving memory of Bridie Carroll (nee Doyle) Kilbrean, Killarney who passed away on 24th May 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. As each day dawns we think of you As each night falls we pray for you And throughout our lives, no matter where In our hearts you are always there.

Sadly missed and never forgotten by your son Denis, daughter-in-law Elaine and grandchildren Anthony, Con and Amy.

2ND ANNIVERSARY

CARROLL (NEE DOYLE)

In loving memory of Bridie

Kilbrean, Killarney who passed away on 24th May 2022.

If memories keep us close Then we are never far apart For you are always on my mind And forever in my heart.

Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by your son Con.

Carroll (nee Doyle)

84 IN MEMORIAM

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT & 1ST ANNIVERSARY O’SHEA

In loving memory of Noreen O’Shea Pike Hill, Killarney 29th May 2023.

As we lovingly remember Noreen on her first anniversary, we her family would like to express our sincere gratitude to all those who sympathised with us on our sad loss.

To all the many people who called to our home, attended the rosary, removal and funeral mass, to those who travelled long distances, and to those who could not attend, but were with us in spirit or via the webcam, we are truly grateful.

To those who sent mass cards, posted messages of condolences online, and all who contributed to the Palliative Care unit thank you.

We would like to thank our extended families, relatives, neighbours and friends who helped and supported us during Noreen’s illness, at the time of the funeral and over the past year. Your presence, kindness and prayers have given us great comfort, is deeply appreciated and will always be remembered.

A special word of thanks to Fr. Kieran O’Brien who called to the house with comforting words and celebrated Noreen’s requiem mass and to all those who made the mass so special.

We would like to especially thank Conor Gleeson, the staff and all the children at Lissivigeen National School who could not have been kinder or more supportive to Noreen. We would like to thank you for the guards of honour at the school, the funeral home and church in memory of Noreen. Thanks to the children for the beautiful Scrolls they made and to Ciara for bringing up a gift at the requiem mass.

To all the wonderful Doctors, Nurses, Carers and the Palliative Care Team led by Dr. Mags Clifford, we are eternally grateful for the wonderful care and support you provided for Noreen and our family.

To Miriam from Lissivigeen National School, Helen Kerins, and Denis Crowley for the beautiful music and hymns which greatly enhanced the liturgy. Thanks also to sacristan Tadgh Fleming and Eucharist Ministers.

To Mike, Mary, and staff of O’Shea’s Funeral Home we thank you so much for your guidance, compassion, and professionalism.

As it is not possible to thank everyone, please take this acknowledgement as a token of our appreciation and gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the mass will be offered for your intentions.

We thought of you today, but that is nothing new

We thought of you yesterday, and will tomorrow too.

We think of you in silence, and make no outward show For what it meant to lose you, those who love you know.

Remembering you is easy, we do it everyday

It’s the heartache of losing you, that will never go away.

Forever in our thoughts and sadly missed, your partner Dan, children Mary, Marcus, Mairead, Maurice, Nigel, and families.

First Anniversary Mass on Sunday 26th May at 12 noon in St. Mary’s Cathedral, Killarney.

1ST ANNIVERSARY

O’SHEA

In loving memory of Noreen O’Shea Pike Hill, Killarney 29th May 2023.

We never part from those we love No distance can divide us With memories dear and love sincere You will always walk beside us.

You are just a step ahead of us A place we all will be And here we’ll laugh and joke again Just like it used to be.

Sadly missed by your loving partner Dan.

Anniversary Mass on Sunday 26th May at 12 noon in St. Mary’s Cathedral.

1ST ANNIVERSARY

O’SHEA

In loving memory of Noreen O’Shea Pike Hill, Killarney 29th May 2023.

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 by Eric, Samantha, Sinéad, Eileen, Juls, Taran and Ivan.

Anniversary Mass on Sunday 26th May at 12 noon in St. Mary’s Cathedral.

5TH ANNIVERSARY COAKELIN

In loving memory of Derek Coakelin late of Ballyspillane, Killarney who died on 24th May 2019.

You are missed so dearly

Now you’re no longer here

When we are thinking of you

Sometimes we shed a tear.

We will always treasure you

You were so gentle and so kind Your love lives on within our hearts

With memories of you in our minds.

Life goes on from day to day But sometimes is out of place We would give almost anything To once more see your smiling face. You were such a blessing So thoughtful and so true We feel eternally grateful To have known someone like you.

From your loving wife Margaret, daughters Christine and Caroline, sons Derek and Darren, and families.

1ST ANNIVERSARY KERRISK

In loving memory of Noel Kerrisk late of High Street, Killarney and Carrick-on-Suir, Co. Tipperary who passed away on 26th May 2023.

We miss your smile, your joking ways We miss the things you used to say No words we speak, can ever say How much we miss you every day.

Dearly loved and always remembered by Derry, Annette, Renee, Irene, Mary, Pauline, Máiréad, and families.

4TH ANNIVERSARY O’KEEFFE

In loving memory of Con O’Keeffe late of Ballaugh, Killarney who passed away on 31st May 2020.

We miss your smile,your joking ways We miss the things you used to say And when old times we do recall It’s then we miss you most of all.

Loved and remembered by your wife Philomena. xxx

** Those we love don’t go away They walk beside us every day Unseen, unheard, but always near Still loved,still missed,still very dear. In my prayers you are each day In my heart you will always stay.

Loving remembered by your daughter Margaret. xxx

** If memories bring us closer We are never far apart For you are always with us In our prayers and in our hearts.

Your name is often mentioned We talk about you every day You have never been forgotten And never will.

Lovingly remembered by your daughter Geraldine, son-in-law Don, and grandchildren Liam, Donald and Gearóid.

Anniversary Mass for Con on Friday 31st May at 6.15pm in St. Mary’s Cathedral, Killarney.

26TH ANNIVERSARY FITZPATRICK

In loving memory of Anne Fitzpatrick late of Mill Road, Killarney who died on 28th May 1998.

Forever loved and sadly missed by Dad, Mom, Denise, Jill and Emir.

2ND ANNIVERSARY

O’SHEA In loving memory of Ned O’Shea Keel, Tralee and Killarney who passed away on 29th May 2022.

A silent grief that’s in our hearts No human eye can trace For many a broken heart is hidden Beneath a smiling face.

Although I cannot see you Ned You’re with me night & day For you and I had a special love

Death cannot take away.

May he rest in peace dear Jesus In Thy Heavenly home above With the Sacred Heart of Jesus In His own eternal love.

Deeply missed, loved and remembered, your partner Kathleen and family.

Mass for Ned will be held on Thursday 30th May at 7.30pm in Keel Church.

2ND ANNIVERSARY O’SHEA

In loving memory of Ned O’Shea Keel, Tralee and Killarney who passed away on 29th May 2022.

Remember him with a smile today He wasn’t one for tears Reflect instead on memories Of all the happy years

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

Missed, loved and remembered by Marie, Aidan and Dermot, & Terry, Tracy, Cian, Clara and Conor. Mass for Ned will be held on Thursday 30th May at 7.30pm in Keel Church.

3RD ANNIVERSARY

O’MEARA

In loving memory of Dan O’Meara Gortaree, Aghadoe, Killarney who passed away on 21st May 2021.

He never looked for praises

He was never one to boast

He just went on quietly working For the ones he loved the most.

His dreams were seldom spoken His wants were very few And most of the times His worries went unspoken too.

Always remembered and sadly missed by your niece Ann, Billy, Alice and Ross.

4TH ANNIVERSARY MCNEICE

In loving memory of James (Jimmy) McNeice Fair Hill, Killarney, Co Kerry who passed away on 30th May 2020.

Those we love don’t go away

They walk beside us every day

Unseen, unheard, but always near Still loved, still missed, still very dear.

Loved and remembered by Eileen, Juliette, Linda, George, Brenda, Patsy, Conor, and families.

Anniversary Mass on Monday 27th May at 6:15pm in St. Mary’s Cathedral, Killarney.

5TH ANNIVERSARY GRIFFIN

In loving Memory of Michael Griffin (Tash) late of Moulagh, Fossa, Killarney whose fifth anniversary occurs on 25th May 2024.

You were a remarkable man

Dependable, loving, and caring

You were the centre of our world

You were one in a million to us.

Deeply loved, sadly missed, and always remembered by his loving family and grandchildren.

Anniversary Mass on Friday 24th May at 7.30pm in Fossa Church.

5TH ANNIVERSARY

LYNE

In loving memory of Jeremiah ‘Jerry’ Lyne late of Knockeenalicka, Kilcummin, Killarney who passed away on 19th May 2019.

Time passes, memories stay Queitly remembered everyday.

Sadly missed and always remembered by all the Lyne family, nephews Michael and Alan, nieces Miriam (Corcoran), and Pauline, nephew-in-law, niece-in-law, grandnieces Sarah, Leah, Sophie, Emma and Cara, grandnephew Killian, cousins, all your extended family, and many friends.

Ar dheis De go raibh a anam dills.

Anniversary mass at a later date.

6TH ANNIVERSARY MCGILLICUDDY (NEE CASEY)

In loving memory of Mary McGillicuddy (Nee Casey) late of Ardshanavooley, Killarney who passed away on 27th May 2018.

I thought of you today, but that is nothing new I thought about you yesterday and the days before that too.

Your memory is a keepsake from which I will never part God has you in his arms I have you in my heart.

Loved and remembered every day by your daughter Noreen.

6TH ANNIVERSARY

MCGILLICUDDY (NEE CASEY)

In loving memory of Mary McGillicuddy (Nee Casey) late of Ardshanavooley, Killarney who passed away on 27th May 2018.

A silent thought A gentle prayer For my special mother In God’s care.

Loved and remembered by your son Seán.

Anniversary Mass on Monday 27th May at 6:15pm in St. Mary’s Cathedral.

9TH ANNIVERSARY

DOOLAN

In loving memory of Donie Doolan Woodlawn Park, Killarney whose 9th anniversary occurs on 29th May.

FOREVER IN OUR THOUGHTS For all you were to us in life and all the joy you brought your memory is with us in every single thought.

The pain we feel at losing you will never go away But knowing you are in our hearts helps us through each day.

When you were here we always felt that nothing could go wrong But you are still our inspiration and your memory keeps us strong.

And though our hearts are heavy they are also full of love and that’s enough to comfort us while you are in heaven above.

Lovingly remembered by your loving wife Debbie, daughters Catherine and Marie, son Timmy, and your loving grandchildren, Derek, Debbi, Kelly, Tadhg, Darragh and Ciara.

45TH BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE

O’SULLIVAN

In loving memory of Tommy O’Sullivan late of Tournanough and Killarney whose 45th birthday falls on 25th May.

Though we miss you always Each and every day It seems to hit us even more Because it’s your birthday.

We send wishes to Heaven Carried to you, upon on a prayer To the place where you are now With sweet, tender love and care.

Your loving Mom and Dad, brothers Dermot and Tim, sister-in-law, nieces and nephew.

6TH ANNIVERSARY FAHEY

In loving memory of George Fahey late of Knocknabro, Clonkeen who died on 28th May 2018.

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

Loved and remembered every day by your daughter Geraldine and Dermot, grandsons Kevin, Steven and Darren, and great grandson Callum. xx

9TH & 15TH ANNIVERSARIES

FALVEY

In loving remembrance of Dad and Jimmy Jimmy 26th May, 2009 Seamus 26th June, 2015 Curragh, Aghadoe, Killarney, Co. Kerry.

Our steadfast love unites us Our faith helps ease the pain As one day in the Father’s house We’ll be together again.

Níl sa Bhás ach Malairt Beatha.

Loved and treasured forever, Mom, Jerry, Gobnait, Michael, John, Brendan, Linda, Chris, Lorraine, Ann-Marie, Dylan, Mattie, Faela, Abbie and Cillian.

Anniversary Mass on Sunday 26th May at 10.00am in Fossa Parish Church.

8TH ANNIVERSARY

CLARKE In loving memory of Dessie Clarke, late of Coolegreane Park, Killarney who died on 22nd May 2016.

A life cut short, a light scattered, I hope you know you always mattered, You were there in the sunshine And in the rain, Your heart was huge despite all the pain

You are free my son to soar with the stars, Your soul is at peace, No more hurt, no more scars, We were graced with your presence we will never forget, All the life that you gave us and all that you met

Soar my dear son to the highest of places, Surrounded by love and smiling faces, We celebrate you now and the lives that you touched, All the friendships and love that matters so much.

Please know you will never walk alone.

Love and miss you every day, Mom x

8TH ANNIVERSARY

CLARKE In loving memory of Dessie Clarke late of Coolegreane Park, Killarney who died on 22nd May 2016.

That cheeky smile, that hearty laugh, Sam protecting the fireside hearth, Cups of tea and Lidl’s scones, GAA and the craic with bones, Walks in the park, sometimes in the dark, Gazing at stars with dreams from afar, Talking it out what it’s all about. We wonder still, we always will.

Forever loved and missed, love your sister Caroline and brotherBrian. xx **

Glory days from Crokes and more, Anthems sung with heart galore, Memories of teenage years, Cycles to Dundag And shared warm beer, Years of life under our belts, Seasons of warmth and Winter melts, A joyful heart, a caring soul, Finding a path to make us whole. Talking it out what’s it all about We wonder still, we always will.

Forever loved and missed, love your brother Seán, sister-in-law Bridget, nephews Jonathan and Paul. xxxx

www.killarneyadvertiser.ie

St. Theresa the Little Flower, please pick

ST. THERESA

SPORT

QUEENS OF MUNSTER

• Emma Dineen double helps Kerry overcome Cork • In-form O’Leary kicks 10 points, nine from play

MUNSTER SFC FINAL Kerry 2 - 15 | Cork 0 - 13 MALLOW

The Kerry ladies have finally returned to the summit of Munster football following a tremendous eight-point victory over fierce rivals Cork in Mallow.

The Kingdom had been waiting seven long years to claim provincial honours; despite their stunning form in recent seasons, Cork were the one team Kerry struggled with, particularly in the championship.

That all changed on Saturday last, although things could have been quite different for Darragh Long, Declan Quill and their charges.

After a competitive first half, the Rebels actually led by three points at half-time and that deficit would have been greater were it not for an opportunistic goal by Glenflesk woman Emma Dineen. Kerry came out after the break with all guns blazing and one gun in particular was shooting straight and true: that of Rathmore starlet Danielle O’Leary.

The all-action sharpshooter kicked an incredible tally of 10 points in all, nine of which came from play. O’Leary made three appearances in the Munster Championship, kicking 0-8 against Tipperary, 0-4 against Cork

in the group stage, and 0-10 in the final. Twenty-two points, with all but two from play, is a phenomenal total. From Kerry’s point of view, long may her scoring streak continue.

The All-Ireland finalists of the last two years eventually prevailed with eight points to spare with Dineen’s second goal, a lovely solo effort, proving to be the dagger.

Joyous scenes followed the final whistle as the girls in green and gold celebrated Munster glory for the first time since 2017.

Along with the cup, the win secured a place amongst the first seeds for the All-Ireland group stage draw. They now know their opponents will be Donegal, who lost the Ulster final to Division 1 champions Armagh, and Waterford, whom Kerry already beat in the Munster Championship.

Elsewhere, Armagh are in Group 1 with Meath and Tipperary; Connacht champions Galway are in Group 3 with Cork and Laois; and reigning Leinster and All-Ireland champions Dublin are in Group 4 alongside Mayo and Kildare.

The first round of fixtures in the group phase will take place the weekend of June 8/9. The top two counties from each pool will advance to the All-Ireland quarter-finals with first place teams getting home advantage.

GOAL-GETTER: Emma Dineen bagged a brace in Kerry's victory over Cork. Photo: Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile.

| By Adam Moynihan

Follow Adam on Twitter @AdamMoynihan

All six forwards scored from play with veteran marksman Paul Geaney leading the way with 0-5

Geaney on target as Kerry maul Monaghan

Adam Moynihan reports from Fitzgerald Stadium

0 - 24 | Monaghan 1 - 11

This Sam Maguire opener in Killarney never really burst into life as a much sharper and hungrier Kerry side ran up an unassailable 13-point lead by half-time.

The hosts made light work of the task at hand in what was what was arguably their most fluid attacking display of the season to date, even if Monaghan’s resistance was minimal.

The visitors did manage to outscore the Munster champions in the second half – thanks, in part, to a goal by Gary Mohan - but it mattered little as Jack O’Connor’s men sent out an ominous signal for future Group 4 opponents Louth and Meath.

A major positive for Kerry was the cohesion they showed in attack. All six forwards scored from play with veteran marksman Paul Geaney leading the

way with 0-5.

CANTER

Monaghan were flat from the moment the ball was thrown in and their lack of physicality allowed the hosts to pull away at a canter.

Things might have been different for the Farney Army had Shane Ryan not denied Conor McCarthy from close range in the opening minutes but, as it was, scores by Paudie Clifford, the lively Geaney and David Clifford (free) set the tone for what came next.

Seánie O’Shea, Tony Brosnan and Dara Moynihan also got in on the act, as did roaming corner backs Tom O’Sullivan and Paul Murphy who chipped in with two points apiece.

In total the Kingdom kicked 15 points into the Lewis Road end as Vinnny Corey’s side managed just two scores in

response – a mark from midfielder/full forward Gary Mohan and one from play by the recalled Micheál Bannigan. It was already game over at this stage and the loyal Monaghan followers who made the long journey were contemplating their decision-making skills.

SECOND HALF

They might take some comfort from the fact that their boys won the second period but, in truth, both sides were going through the motions by then. Mohan capitalised on a rare mistake under a high ball from Shane Ryan in the 59th minute to score the only goal of the game. His low, driven finish made it Kerry 0-21 Monaghan 1-6. Points by Joel Wilson (mark) and Conor McManus (free) followed, and the Ulster outfit outscored Kerry by 1-5 to 0-3 in the final 12 minutes, but those three points, all from the boot of Seánie O’Shea, secured a double-digits win. Next up for Kerry is an away match against Meath on June 1/2. Monaghan

are at home to Louth the same weekend.

Louth face Meath in their Round 1 fixture on Saturday at 5.30pm in Grattan Park, Inniskeen.

KERRY: S Ryan; P Murphy 0-2, J Foley, T O’Sullivan 0-3; B Ó Beaglaoich, T Morley, G White; D O’Connor, J O’Connor; T Brosnan 0-2, P Clifford 0-2, D Moynihan 0-1; D Clifford 0-5 (3f), S O’Shea 0-4 (3f), P Geaney 0-5. Subs: BD O’Sullivan for J O’Connor; C Burke for Moynihan; A Heinrich for Ó Beaglaoich; Stephen O’Brien for Brosnan; D Roche for Geaney.

MONAGHAN: R Beggan 0-1f; R Wylie, B McBennett, R O’Toole 0-1; K O’Connell, K Lavelle, C McCarthy 0-1; G Mohan 1-1, M McCarville; S O’Hanlon 0-1, M Bannigan 0-2, M Hamill; J Irwin, S Jones, C McManus 0-1f.

Subs: D Ward 0-1 for McCarville; A Woods 0-1m for Jones; C McNulty for McBennett; J Wilson 0-1m for O’Connell; T McPhillips for Ward.

TOP SCORER: Paul Geaney of Kerry is tackled by Ryan Wylie of Monaghan. The Dingle man scored five points from play. Photo: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile.

The third annual Killarney Club 7s tournament will be staged this weekend at Spa GAA grounds with 36 clubs and over 500 players due to take part.

The hugely successful event has already become a popular fixture of the local sporting calendar with large crowds flocking to Tullig for two days of football and entertainment.

With Heineken as title sponsors and support also coming from the likes of Kellihers Toyota, Killarney Credit Union, Sheahan’s, GMIB.ie, Daly’s SuperValu and O’Callaghan Coaches, attendees will be treated to top quality food and drink on site, as well as a wide array of live music. Acclaimed group Chasing Abbey are the headline act on Saturday with Super Céilí rounding things off on Sunday night. On the pitch, men’s and women’s teams from all over the country will compete for €10,000 in prize money.

Matches will be played across three ex cellent pitches, all of which can be easily viewed from all areas of the grounds. The group stages will be played on Satur day with the knockout rounds scheduled for Sunday. Participating teams include Confey from Kildare, St Finbarr’s from Cork, Castleknock from Dublin and, all the way from Germany, Berlin GAA. The hosts Spa won the 2023 men’s final in dramatic fashion when a last-gasp goal saw them beat Cuala in front of a boister ous crowd.

Free shuttle buses will be running to Kil larney when the festivities wind down at 10pm each night.

For more information, visit killarneyclub7s.ie.

READY TO GO:

Dara Moynihan, Elizabeth Stack, Meghann Cronin and Michael Foley at Spa GAA grounds ahead of the Killarney Club 7s.

Killarney set for festival of football

Club 7s tournament takes place in Spa this weekend

Photo: Paudie Healy.

MERCHANDISE: Meghann Cronin and Elizabeth Stack modelling the official 2024 Killarney Club 7s jerseys. Photo: Paudie Healy.

Que sera, sera at majestic Wembley

It was once the premier competition in English soccer but the Premier League of today is more important because Europe beckons and that's where the money is. Money talks.

Nevertheless, tomorrow's FA Cup final will be eagerly anticipated. Furthermore, it will be a Manchester derby, City v United. It is another opportunity for Man City to do the double and show why they are the undisputed champions of recent years.

The once great Man Utd would dearly love to cause a surprise and avenge last year's defeat to the same opposition in the same competition. What they would do to have the bragging rights.

RED OR BLUE?

Is Manchester that polarised when it comes to whom you support?

Recently I met up with Fr John Ahern to talk sport and he is an avid supporter of all codes. He is certainly well versed in the soccer scene in Manchester. When he returned from the missions in Peru, he ministered in Manchester and in his parish was Old Trafford. There he got to know the United players and manager Matt Busby. He met Charlton, Law, Roy Keane, George Best (a rare genius, es-

pecially in the 1968 European Cup final) and a host of other greats when United were the undisputed kingpins of English football.

“At that time the big games were on Saturdays and you didn't have the glut of midweek fixtures of the present time,”

Fr Ahern notes. “Sunday was a very busy day in our parish and many of those players attended regular Sunday mass.

“As you know, Manchester was a very popular place for Irish immigrants. Sure, the Irish built so much of the infrastructure of the city. There was a very noticeable separation. The Catholics were in the part of the city where United were located all around Old Trafford. The rest of Manchester was either Protestant or followers of other religions.

“A local derby brings that extra special factor. Ireland v England. Kerry v Cork. Crokes v Legion. The Rock v Strand Road.

City v United is no different.”

Monday was Fr John’s day off and the United players were also free, so the local golf course was the great meeting place. The competitive spirit brought out the best in them.

He got to know them very well. What kind of a person was Roy Keane? Was he the volatile character we saw on field or in Saipan, or even in today's punditry?

“He is what you see: a great player, fiercely competitive and a winner.”

Keane is very critical of the United of today, who have fallen from the top despite spending millions. Have they any chance tomorrow?

“When teams are written off they can spring a surprise, especially in the cup. It’s a once off and players can get it right on the day. United will want to take City down a peg, so they can do it.”

They came through the easier side of the draw. Ten Hag’s side went 3-0 up against Coventry in the semi-final, which is effectively out the gap in any match, yet they were pegged back and sneaked in the back door on a penalty shootout. Miracles do happen but I feel that it will take more than Fr John's prayers and good wishes to prevent a repeat of last year. It must be City to win. We all know that United have a huge following here in Kerry, and many are regular spectators at Old Trafford. Then we have the ABUs (Anyone But United) mentioned so often in the past by Des Cahill… Arsenal lead the way on the honours list, winning the FA Cup on 14 occasions. They are followed by Man Utd on 12 - they last won it in 2016 when they beat Cystal Palace 2-1 AET. Man of the Match that day was the talented Wayne Rooney. City are the holders and I expect them to repeat last year's win. The venue of course is the magnificent Wembley Stadium in London, a location that brings

up happy memories of May 1972 for this writer.

At that time the GAA ran a hugely successful Whit Tournament on the sacred soccer sod of Wembley Stadium. Top intercounty teams were the attraction for the Irish who were domiciled and working in England. They came in great numbers from all over England. The GAA All-Stars of December 1971 were the first year of those awards. That All-Star team played Kerry, the National League champions in Wembley.

Donie O'Sullivan was Kerry's first AllStar and the only Kerryman to win one in the inaugural year. He had to play with the All-Stars versus his usual Kerry teammates. Kerry defeated the All-Stars on the first RTÉ live colour coverage of such a game. Man of the Match was Mick O'Dwyer who shot eight points. It was the first time ever that I saw complete green grass in the full area right up to the white goal line. It was magical and ideal for diving on what could only be described as a green carpet, a magical Field of Dreams. Not even a half century dims the memories of Wembley Stadium. Last year the attendance at the FA Cup final was 83,179, equivalent to a full Croke Park on All-Ireland final day. Expect the same tomorrow.

| By Eamonn Fitzgerald

Paul’s coach Fleming picks up top Basketball Ireland award

Utility Trust St Paul’s coach James Fleming was named as the Basketball Ireland Division 1 Women’s Coach of the Year at an awards function in Dublin on Saturday.

Fleming led St Paul’s to the Southern Conference title and the MissQuote.ie Division 1 title, which brought with it promotion to the Super League. They defeated Swords Thunder in that promotion decider in Tallaght with a superb display of basketball, eventually winning on a 71-48 scoreline.

The Killarney side also reached the final of the League Trophy.

A drill down into the details shows an unbeaten home league record, the best offence and defence in the league, and

just one loss in the entire Division 1 season.

Having won multiple Coach of the Month awards, it was perhaps only fitting that Fleming should be presented with the ultimate accolade.

The Killarney native is currently plotting ahead of the 2024/25 Super League campaign, which will see Paul’s competing against the biggest clubs in the country.

Meanwhile, Jillian Hayes, Deora Marsh, Sheila Gillick and Tony Burke were inducted into the Basketball Ireland Hall of Fame, while Donal Walsh, Ger Tarrant and Kitty and John Glavin were honoured with a Presidents' Lifetime Achievement Award.

PUTCH & PUTT: The two St Brendan's College teams who were prizewinners in both the Munster and National Secondary Schools events received their prizes after the national event in Hillview, Clonmel. Pictured are Ben Kelliher (captain), Brian McCarthy and Nathan Cronin (Munster and national winners), and Ronan Bennett, Fintan Martin and Robbie Harnett (Munster runners-up and National third place finishers).

Six cups in a row for Kerry kingpins Celtic

Killarney Celtic’s dominance of the local junior soccer scene appears to show no signs of letting up after the Derreen-based club added more silverware to their cabinet last Sunday.

The Hoops defeated Tralee Dynamos in the final of the Greyhound Bar KO Cup to make it six-in-a-row in the county’s most prestigious knockout competition. Lee Downing was the hero on the day as he scored twice in the first half to put his side in the ascendency. In the end, that was enough to get the job done as the

FRIDAY, MAY 24

Killarney lads held on for a 2-0 win. The Celts have the opportunity to complete another league and cup double this weekend, although they will be pushed all the way by a talented young Killarney Athletic outfit in the Premier A final. The match will take place on Sunday at 4pm in Mounthawk Park in Tralee and Brendan Moloney’s Blues will be eager to bring their neighbours’ remarkable run to an abrupt end.

Supporters of both clubs are urged to make the journey to Tralee and get behind their teams for one final time this season.

SPORTS ON TV THIS WEEKEND

GOLF Sky Sports Golf 5pm Charles Schwab Challenge

HURLING TG4 7.30pm U20: Tipperary v Cork

RUGBY TNT Sports 1 8pm Gloucester v Sharks

RUGBY LEAGUE Sky Sports Mix 8pm Castleford Tigers v Hull FC BOXING Sky Sports Action 10pm Lukasz Rozanski v Lawrence Okolie

SATURDAY, MAY 25

CYCLING Eurosport 1 10.30am Giro d’Italia

TENNIS Sky Sports Tennis 12pm WTA Final Rabat

CYCLING BBC Red Button 1.15pm Ride London

RACING RTÉ 1 1.45pm The Curragh

CRICKET Sky Sports Cricket 2pm England v Pakistan

RUGBY RTÉ 2 2.45pm Leinster v Toulouse

SOCCER BBC 1 3pm Manchester City v Manchester Utd

SOCCER Premier Sports 2 3pm Celtic v Rangers

SOCCER Premier Sports 2 7pm Kaiserslautern v Bayer Leverkusen

SOCCER TG4 7.35pm Women’s: Shamrock Rovers v Galway Utd

ATHLETICS Virgin Media Two 9pm Eugene, Oregon Diamond League GAA RTÉ 2 9.30pm The Saturday Game

SUNDAY, MAY 26

TENNIS Eurosport 9.30am French Open F1 Sky Sports F1 12.30pm Monaco Grand Prix HURLING RTÉ 2 2pm Galway v Dublin

HURLING

2 4pm Limerick v Waterford

SOCCER Sky Sports Football 3pm Leeds Utd v Southampton

WINNER: James Fleming is presented with the Division 1 Coach of the Year award.

CUP WINNERS: The Killarney Celtic team who defeated Tralee Dynamos in the Greyhound Bar KO Cup final. Photo: Killarney Celtic.

THE WEEK IN PICTURES

CAPTAIN: Ronan O'Brien, Killarney Legion U15 captain, pictured with his family after the County League Division 1 final.

ROSS GOLF CLUB: The winning teams and category winners in the MD O'Shea Spring League at the Ross GC. Back: Cian O'Mahony, MJ Casey, Lucas Cronin, Darren Gaffey, Tony Lenihan, Dan Cronin, Thomas Horan and Anthony O'Mahony. Front: Alan Flynn, John Cuskelly, Johnny Brosnan (Captain), Damian Greer (winning team captain), Mike O'Shea (sponsor), Oliver McCarthy, and Séamus McCarthy.

WORKMEN’S ROWING CLUB: Members of Workmen's Rowing Club who took part in the Lee Regatta in Cork. Back: Ross McCarthy, Finn O'Neill, Zac Donaldson, Divo Lucic Kovacevic, Mary Burns, Siobhán Donaldson, Geraldine O'Neill, Carol Mannix, Ivor Prudnikovaite and Anthony McCarthy. Front: Paula Prudnikovaite, Faye Mannix, Grace Mannix, Kayla Wharton and Amelie Counihan.

LGFA: The Spa senior ladies team who defeated ISG in Round 7 of the Donal Curtin Cup County League Division 3.

SWIMMING: Members of Killarney Swimming Club who competed in the John Dempsey Memorial Gala in UL.

GAA: The Killarney Legion U15 team, Division 1 County League champions.

CAMOGIE: The Killarney Camogie Club U16s who played Abbeykillix in Lyracrompane in the first round of the County League.

Killarney Celtic

Killarney Athletic

U13 PREMIER: St Brendan's Park 1-0 Killarney Athletic. Our young blues travelled to Tralee yesterday to play our last league game of the campaign. Well done to our boys who battled right to the final whistle.

UNDER 14 TOM HAYES CUP FINAL: Killarney Athletic 3 St. Brendan's Park 2. On one of the nicest days of the year our Athletic boys gave one of their best performances. Athletic starting well .. playing some nice football and playing with huge intensity raced into a two-goal lead through Eric Corcoran and James O’Callaghan. The team were on the front foot for most of the first half with the opposition looking for long balls over the top to their dangerous pacey number 9. Athletic started the second half much how they finished the first with dominating the centre of the park they got more primary possession for long periods with Hurley Lyne and Max Moynihan playing some lovely football while also winning the physical battle. Athletic put together a beautiful move down the right with Conor Moynihan and Jamie Fleming playing a few one twos for the latter to cross where James was on hand to finish to get his second of the game. As much as we were comfortable Park threw the kitchen sink at us and were rewarded with a great piece of skill and finishing from their number 9. Athletic sat onto their lead and were comfortable for the most part with Park direct style of play as Nash and Moynihan and Bennett delt with it for most of the game. Park were rewarded a peno with a few mins to go but Athletic held on to a deserving victory. These lads have played an almighty amount of sport in the last two weeks, and they have shown huge mental toughness and great quality over these weeks and season.

Killarney Celtic

LOTTO: Numbers drawn 2, 3, 7, 22. No jackpot winner. Match 3 winners received €75. Next jackpot €8,400 on Monday May 27th. Tickets available from The Dungeon Bookshop, Amber Shop (Top of Ross Road), club members and online through Clubzap.

GREYHOUND BAR CUP FINAL: Killarney Celtic 2-0 Tralee Dynamos. Killarney Celtic lifted the Greyhound Bar Cup for the 6th year in a row and the 7th time in 8 seasons after a victory over Tralee Dynamos last Sunday in Mounthawk Park. Lee Downing struck twice in the 1st half to give Celtic the lead and despite the best efforts of both sides no further goals were forthcoming. Well done to the management and players on this fine achievement. Attention now turns to the Premier A final this weekend.

YOUTHS: Charleville Cheese Youths Premier Shield Final - Killarney Celtic 2-3

Killarney Athletic. Rafael Viegas, Cillian Coffey.

GIRLS: Charleville Cheese Women's U17 League Final - Killarney Celtic 4-0

LB Rovers. Ali Bowler, Abbie Finnan, Clodagh Moriarty, Sadbh O'Halloran. Killarney Celtic completed the U17 League and Cup last weekend after defeating LB Rovers in the League final played at Mounthawk Park. Celtic took the lead when Casey Mulry found Ali Bowler who finished to the net. Celtic increased their lead when Abbie Finnan headed home a Clodagh Moriarty corner. Celtic led 2-0 at half time. Celtic made it 3 after Clodagh Moriarty hit a fabulous shot to the net. Celtic completed the scoring when Sadbh O'Halloran hit home a rebound after Ali Bowler had her shot saved. Well done to the management and players on a fine season that culminated in a League and Cup double.

U16 PREMIER: Listowel Celtic 0-3 Killarney Celtic. Sadbh O'Halloran 2, Sarah Warren. Needing a win to take the League title, Killarney produced a fine performance in Listowel to cap a memorable few days for the club. Sadbh O'Halloran followed up her goal in the U17 decider with 2 more goals here and Sarah Warren netted to bring the U16 Premier title back to Killarney again. Well done to the players and management. CUP: Last Sunday the Mary Lyne Perpetual Cup was presented for the 1st time to the winners of the KSBGL Girls U15 Cup Final with Listowel Celtic becoming the 1st side to win the new cup. A great honour for Mary and the club to have the girl's U15 Cup and Shield competitions named in her honour.

Mastergeeha

LOTTO: There was no winner on Friday 17th May 2024 of the Jackpot for €11,200. Numbers drawn were 05, 06, 11, 20. Consolation prizes of €50 went to Brendan Fleming, Milleen; Connie O’Shea, Killarney; Lyno c/o Jimmy’s; Eileen & Samantha, Glounonea. The next draw will be on Friday 24th May for Jackpot of €11,400.

Killarney Legion GAA

U15 COUNTY LEAGUE DIVISION 1: Pride of place this week has to go to the U15 Boys who saw off the gallant challenge of Firies in a great battle in Milltown last Wednesday night. When the full-time whistle went all that separated the sides was a single point as Firies mounted a furious attempt towards the end of the game to rescue a win. The first half was a tight affair with little between the sides throughout, the boys taking a one-point lead into the dressing room at half time, 0-7 to 0-6. Some timely goals in the second half pushed us five points clear but it was the signal for Firies to launch that late charge, but stout defending saw us win out on a 2-11 to 1-13 win. Captain Ronan O’Brien received the Division 1 cup afterwards, much to the delight of

the strong support present in the Mid Kerry venue. Commiserations to Firies who out in a trojan effort on the night. and to the referee Evan Horan and his umpires who did a fine job officiating. Team: James Murphy, Ryan Twomey, Ronan O’Brien (Capt), James O’Callaghan, William Fogarty, Mark Looney, Conor Moynihan, Samuel Scroope (0-2), Jamie Fleming, Dara Horan (0-1), Jack Culloty (0-5), Sean Lyne, Cian Hegarty (1-1), Jack Grady (1-2), Jayden Hurley. Subs: Luca Mosca, Marco Mosca, Ryan Kissane, Ewan McGillicuddy, Sean Horan, Jake Coffey (Inj) Liam Quirke. And of course a big well done to the management team of Fergal Moynihan, Peter O’Leary, Paul Moriarty, Tomas Horan, Conor Myles and Enda Murphy who had the lads well prepared on the night.

Spa GAA

U9: A few games this weekend for the under 9s with a very strong showing from Spa and some great games against Ballydesmond boys and girls. Great fun was had by everyone and there was great support for both teams!

U13B BOYS: Our Spa U13B team were away to Northern Gaels on Sunday morning in Ballydonoghue. Great effort by our team. Northern Gaels were the winners on the day, but our lads battled throughout the game and are showing massive improvement.

DONAL CURTIN CUP: Spa senior ladies travelled to Templenoe on Sunday to play ISG in Round 7 of the Division 3 Credit Union Donal Curtin Cup. It was very warm conditions but that didn’t stop both teams starting at a lightning pace. ISG opened the scoresheet with a fine point and were unlucky to not add to that straight away as they followed it with two close wides. Eimear Beazley got Spa’s first point and that seemed to settle Spa. It was a very strong first half performance by Spa with goals coming from Meghann Cronin, Maireád Bennett (pen) and Vanessa Dineen. Points from Liadh Tobin, Aisling Mahony & Maireád Bennett really put Spa in the driving seat. The score at half time was 3:07 to 1:02. ISG came out after half time determined to turn the game around and they increased their work rate hugely and turned over a lot of ball depriving the Spa forwards of any ball. The Spa’s defence was under huge pressure and tired legs started to show. Ciara Moynihan getting injured was a big blow for Spa, but they dug deep and did just enough to hold off a very impressive ISG comeback. The final score was 3:09 to 3:06 to Spa. Well done to all the girls for a superb performance in that heat and well done to management, Tomás Daly, Craig Power and Ivor Flynn and Mags Cronin for all your help.

Dr Crokes GAA

SFL: Div. 1 - Dr Crokes 0:16 Laune Rangers 0:11. We welcomed Laune Rang-

ers to a very sunny Lewis Road for the highly anticipated top of the table clash. Aided by the return of Shane Murphy we remain unbeaten going in to round 8 of the County League. It was the visitors who opened the scoring with a fine point from play from the throw in. 2 minutes later, Micheal Burnes levelled matters with his first of 11 points. 7 of our first half points came from frees, 6 of which were kicked by Micheal Burns and one by Alex Hennigan. Billy Courtney kicked a great score from play in the 10th minute and we went in leading 0:09 to 0:06 at the break. It was the Killorglin men who once again won the throw in on the resubmission of play. We kicked the first three points of the half and kept our opposition scoreless until the 8th minute of play. We were unlucky not to add the maximum to our tally when Paul Clarke kicked a high ball in to Harry Potts who did all he could to punch the ball in to the net. The Rangers men did well to clear the ball off the line. This was a brilliant team performance. Next up is Kerins O'Rahillys on May 26th.

ACADEMY: Our Academy continues every Saturday morning, for boys and girls between 4 and 11 from the Killarney area. Hurling from 10-11 and Football from 11:15-12:15. Fun and friendship guaranteed. Bring a friend.

MEMBERSHIP: Dr. Crokes GAA Membership for the 2024 season is now open online. This is the last week for membership. If membership is not paid players will not be able to play or train with the club.

MOTHERS & OTHERS are hosting a table quiz on Friday 24th May. Prebook tickets for a chance to win a €100 dinner voucher. Contact 086 3895230 to prebook your tickets.

LOTTO took place May 20th. Numbers drawn were 11, 19, 22, 27. Jackpot of €6,500 was NOT WON. 9 patrons matched 3 numbers and receive €45 each. Jackpot for draw on May 27th will be €6,800. Play online via Clubforce. DR. CROKES SHOP: You can shop worldwide on our online shop.

BINGO: Dr Crokes Bingo continues every Sunday in St. Mary's Parish Hall. Doors will open at 7pm with the first game commencing at 8pm.

OLD CLOTHES BANK is located at the rear of the clubhouse. All clothes should be deposited in bags. Donations will help to provide valuable funding to our club.

CONGRATULATIONS to Kayleigh Cronin and the Kerry Senior Ladies team and Kacper Robak and the Kerry Minor team on winning their respective Munster Finals.

NOTES: If anyone has anything they want to add to our club notes please email. Kilcummin GAA

O’Callaghan and his Kerry team-mates who lost out to Tyrone in the All-Ireland U20 final on Sunday.

CREDIT UNION CO LEAGUE DIV 6A: Our B team finished the first phase of the Co League strongly with their third successive victory. Goals from Sean Doolan and Gavin Cronin saw us beat Legion B, 2-11 to 0-13 in Direen on Friday last. This was a good team performance and great credit is due to the players and management for their efforts.

CREDIT UNION CO LEAGUE DIV 1: Our senior team lost their second game of the season to an impressive Glenflesk on score line 2-14 to 0-11. They are now away again next week to Rathmore.

Fossa GAA

LOTTO: The numbers drawn on 19/05/2024 for a jackpot of €11,850 were 10, 11, 14, 22. There was no jackpot winner, and the €40 consolation prize winners were Denis O’Sullivan; Michael O’Keeffe; Ava Griffin; E O’Connor, Tralee; Michael Ball. Tickets are available from our sellers and can also be bought online via Clubforce.

COUNTY LEAGUE DIV 2: Our seniors prevailed in a really stern test with Na Gaeil on Saturday evening, there are no easy games in this division and so this proved to be. Fossa went into an early lead with points from Tadhg and Emmett O’Shea, however, with both teams evenly matched and Na Gaeil really competitive, they struck back to take the lead after 20 minutes of play, 0-5 to 0-4. Fossa did kick the next few scores, but they only lead by the bare minimum at the break, Fossa 0-8, Na Gaeil 0-7. Fossa upped the intensity in the second half with Dan O’Connell defending brilliantly, Matt Rennie and Eoin Talbot putting in a big shift around the middle third and the O’Shea brothers in scintillating form in the forwards. Emmett O’Shea extended the lead, but Na Gaeil drew level again in the 6th minute, a long-range effort from Tadgh O’Shea and a lovely left footed point from Matt Rennie put Fossa back in front. Na Gael refused to yield and were back on level terms in the 18th minute. Not for the first time this year, Cian O’Shea has come up with big scores for his team, but this one could be the most crucial of all, a high ball into the Na Gaeil square broke, Cian reacted quickest and rattled the net to finally break the opposition resistance. This was quickly followed with a brace of points from the outstanding Emmett and Tadgh O’Shea, and it left Fossa winners in the end, 1-16 to 0-13. While the margin was six points in the end this was a really battling victory, dug out from hard graft and great teamwork to get the job done. Team: Shane O’Sullivan, Dan O’Connell, Cian McCarthy, Brian Myers, Ruari Doyle, Kieran O’Sullivan, Sam Buckley, Paddy Sheehan, Cian O’Shea (1-0), Harry Buckley (0-1), Matt Rennie (0-1), Eoin Talbot,

Tadgh O’Shea (0-6), Fintan Coffey, Emmett O’Shea (0-8), Pauric Talbot, Mark Donnellan, Michael O’Dwyer, Ted O’Gorman.

Glenflesk GAA

RESULT: Credit Union Senior County League Division 1 - Glenflesk 2-14 Kilcummin 0-11. An outstanding second half team performance, highlighted by some superb scores, helped Glenflesk to another 2 points against Kilcummin, to continue their impressive form in their return to Division 1 of the County League. It was Kilcummin who started the livelier, taking the lead inside the first 30 seconds. With Paul O'Shea accurate from frees, they would lead by 5 points to 4 after 15 minutes. The returning Darragh Roche got 3 early frees for Glenflesk, but they were struggling to make an impact in open play. Kevin Bowler’s point, after a patient build up, was a rare moment of good link up play. A well struck 45 from goalie Keith O’Leary, left Kilcummin with a deserved 2-point lead at the break. Glenflesk came out strong to start the second half. Jamie Moynihan leading the charge, with a powerful surge forward, timing his pass perfectly to Callum Cronin, who judged his lobbed shot over O’Leary perfectly, just dropping under the bar and in the net. Two O'Shea frees brought the side’s level again, before Roche got a burst of score’s that set Glenflesk on the way to victory. Firing over 4 of Glenflesk’s next 5 point’s, Roche’s accuracy put Glenflesk 5 point’s up. Kilcummin’s only reply was a free from Gary O'Leary. A Kilcummin goal though would have made the last few minutes interesting. Instead it was Glenflesk who got the goal. Joe Rudden’s superb interception started the move. Kevin Bowler then broke free of the Kilcummin defence. Again he made the right choice, timing his pass to Cronin perfectly. After a quick dummy to evade O'Leary, he fired to the net with his right foot. Moynihan added another point before the end, and Glenflesk had done more than enough to ensure victory. Thank you to Michael Healy for the match report.

Listry GAA

LOTTO: Numbers drawn 4, 18, 24, 26. €100 Clifford Family, Faha West. €50 Francis & Josephine Jennings. €50 Lyno. €25 Ursula Flynn. €25 Rhona O'Regan, Milltown. Jackpot next week: €3,900. Next Draw: May 26th. U13: U13 teams play Firies Sunday 26th at 5.30 and 7pm in Allman park in round 3.

SENIORS: Our seniors play Cordal away next Sunday May 26th at 2pm in Cordal.

East Kerry GAA

U17 EAST REGION LEAGUE 2024: Division 1 - Rathmore 2-09 Dr Crokes 1-16. Kenmare 4-06 Dr Crokes 1-07. Division 2 - Glenflesk 1-08 Kilcummin 1-09. Cur-

row 3-14 Cordal 2-23. Division 3 - Kenmare 1-07 Fossa 4-20. Beaufort 7-14 Legion 6-04. Finals on Monday May 27th.

ALL-IRELAND FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP: Congratulations to the Kerry team on their opening round win against Monaghan in the All-Ireland Championship.

ALL-IRELAND U20 CHAMPIONSHIP: Hard luck to the Kerry team on their defeat against Tyrone in the All-Ireland Final.

MUNSTER LADIES FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP: Congratulations to the Kerry Ladies team on their Munster Final win against Cork on Saturday.

SYMPATHIES: Condolences to the families of Ann Cronin (née Culloty). Maughantourig, Gneeveguilla, Kerry/ Headford, Kerry on her recent death.

Beaufort GAA

FIXTURES: Senior men will be away to Fossa in Division 2 Senior Co League next weekend.

RESULTS: Glenbeigh/Glencar 0.09 Beaufort 1.09 in Div. 2, Co Senior league. Beaufort 0.14 Kenmare Shamrocks 1.13 in Senior Co League, Div. 6 LOTTO: The next draw for a jackpot of €3,800 will be on Sunday, 26th May in Galvin’s Bar. Tickets are available from usual sellers, shops, and public houses and online at www.beaufortgaa.com. Please note that online lotto closes at 7pm on draw night. Any tickets purchased after 7pm are entered into the next draw. Thank you to everybody who support the lotto and our lotto sellers. GAELIC 4 MOTHERS & OTHERS: Beaufort has joined the Gaeli4Mothers&Others initiative which see Ladies playing Ladies Gaelic Football in a fun, non-competitive and social environment. It is confined to Ladies who do not play senior LGFA Club football and who are over 25 years of age. For more information, please contact Gillian on 087 9903552.

MEMBERSHIP: Beaufort G.A.A. Club membership is now due. Gym and facilities membership is also available. Please contact Patie 087 2515311. LGFA membership is also necessary for playing Ladies and Girls football. For more information, please contact Sue 086 2632219.

CLUB SUMMER CAMP: Will be held on the week of 8th to 12th July in Beaufort GAA Club complex. For more information, please contact Mary 086 0640065 or Tara 087 6032774.

Killarney Camogie Club

FÉILE FUNDRAISER: Our GoFundMe page is up and running to raise as much money as possible to send our Under 15 girls to Regional Féile in Roscommon on 22nd June. All donations would be greatly appreciated. Seach for "Killarney Camogie" on the GoFundMe platform or click the link on our Facebook page!

UNDER 16: Our Under 16s played Ab-

beykillix in the 1st round of the County League in Lyracrompane last week. After a great battle throughout the game, Abbeykillix came out with the win. Thanks to Abbeykillix for a great sporting game, Tommy Guerin for reffing and Lyracrompane for the use of the pitch.

UNDER 14: Our Under 14s played Causeway in the 2nd round of the County League in Gneeveguilla last week. Causeway were the stronger team throughout and came out with the victory. Thanks to Causeway for the sporting game, Tommy Guerin for reffing and Gneeveguilla for the pitch.

PAT SHEEHAN MEMORIAL BLITZ: Our Pat Sheehan Memorial Blitz took place in Spa yesterday Thursday 23rd May. Please see our Facebook page for all photos. Small teacher schools took part in the blitz and showed off all the camogie skills they have gained under the coaching of Killarney coaches Sarah Dineen, Karen Herlihy and Brendan McMahon.

KERRY SENIORS: Hard luck to the Kerry senior team and management, especially Kate Lynch and Áine Devlin, who lost to Tipperary in the Munster Intermediate Final last Saturday on a scoreline of Kerry 0-09 Tipperary 2-09.

KERRY UNDER 16: Hard luck to the Kerry Under 16's who were defeated by Laois last Sunday in Round 3 of the All-Ireland Championship Killarney Golf & Fishing Club (Ladies)

RESULTS: The Gleneagle Hotel Mixed Foursome - Killarney Cups. 16th May 2024 on Mahony’s Point. Winner Kay O’Connor & Donal G O’Sullivan, (12) 38pts. 2nd Nicola O’Mahony & Finbarr O’Mahony (14) 38pts. 3rd Kathleen Brosnan & Brendan Brosnan (21) 37pts. NEXT FIXTURE will be 25th May 2024 Aherns.ie Australian Spoons Qualifier on Mahony’s Point. Calor Gas Cork Golf Club Exchange 26th May 2024 team of Two.

Ross Golf Club (Ladies)

EXCHANGE DAY kindly sponsored by Anne O’Leary The Laurels. Exchange Day with Castlerosse on Saturday 25th May. 9-hole Scramble. Meet for 10.00am tee off at 10.30am.

RESULTS: 9-hole Single Stableford Saturday 18th May. Winner was Maureen Beecher Crowley. 2nd Jennifer Nash. Well done and thanks to all who took part.

WEDNESDAY MORNINGS MEET & PLAY: Meet and play every Wednesday morning. Meet in the Club House 10.30am tee off 11.00am. All members welcome.

GOLF LESSONS: Gordon Howard is available to give golf lessons. Please contact Gordon directly in the Club House.

Ross Golf Club (Men)

RESULTS: On May 18th & 19th we held the Sahara Cup Stableford competition. The winners were: 1st Tadgh Gallivan (16) 38, 2nd Tony Lenihan (16) 37. Division 1: 1st Simon Gallivan (0) 35, 2nd Renaldas Bendikas (7) 34. Division 2: 1st Cian O’Mahony (17) 35, 2nd Cormac O’Donoghue (13) 32. Division 3: 1st Neilie Carroll (31) 32, 2nd Alius Brazeitis (31) 25. On May 9th our Seniors Weekly 9-hole competition winners were: 1st Pat Mitchell, 2nd Sean Hickey, 3rd Andy Cole. On May 16th our Seniors Weekly 9-hole competition winners were: 1st Mike Gorman, 2nd Maurice Coffey, 3rd John Ivory.

FIXTURES: On Thursday May 23rd our Cashman Team will host Killarney GC in the Ross in the first round of this competition at 4pm. Members are asked to come along and support our team. On May 25th & 26th we will hold a stableford competition kindly sponsored by C K Decorators.

CLUB MATCHPLAY CHAMPIONSHIP: The draw for the Killarney Medal & Trophy Centre club match play championship has been made. The draw and rules, etc are available on the noticeboard in the Gents Locker Room. All first-round matches must be played by June 16th. CONGRATULATIONS to our Vice Captain Peter Wickham on his recent brilliant hole in one on the 12th hole in O'Mahony's Point. Well done.

SYMPATHY: We extend our sincere sympathy to Mike Casey, Jonathan (Past Captain), Leo and the Casey Family on the recent passing of his wife and their mother, Charlotte Casey. R.I.P. We also extend our sincere sympathy to Cormac and Timmy O'Donoghue and the O'Donoghue Family on the recent passing of their brother, Caoimhin O'Donoghue R.I.P.

Beaufort Golf Club (Ladies)

RESULTS: 2nd Round Golfer of The Year was held on the 18th and 19th May kindly and generously sponsored by Great Southern Hotel. Congratulations to the prizewinners. 1st Hannah Moynihan (30) 72nett, 2nd Eimear McShortall (43) 77nett, 3rd Marian Kerrisk (26) 77nett. BEST WISHES to the Beaufort Ladies who are taking part in the Revive Active Munster Fourball against Killarney Golf Club on Saturday 25th May in the evening time. 3 matches in Killarney and 2 matches in Beaufort starting from 4pm onwards. All support would be greatly appreciated.

Castlerosse Golf Club (Ladies)

RESULTS: 18H stableford. 1st Nuala Ward, 2nd Helen Healy. 9H Stableford - 1st Catherine Woods, 2nd Margaret Crowley. No mixed scramble or social golf this week due to course maintenance.

SPRING LEAGUE: All first-round matches to be completed by June 1st. GET INTO GOLF: The Get Into Golf 8-week programme will begin on Monday 27th May from 7.00 pm to 8.30 pm. Cost is €70. Contact Kieran 087 2748777.

Deerpark Pitch & Putt Club

CLUB

STROKEPLAY: Sponsored by Charlie Foleys Bar we thank everyone who took part in this year’s event. Congratulations to Niall O’Loughlin on being this year’s Ian O’Leary Memorial Shield Winner. Results: Overall Nett: Niall O'Loughlin 86, Overall Gross: John McGrath 94, Second Nett: Bobby Kelly 88 (B18), Ladies Nett: Eileen McCarthy 90, +3-7.4 Nett: Kieran Fitzpatrick 88 and 7.5-16 Nett: Mark O'Shea 91. Presentation of these prizes will take place in early July at our Chairman’s Prize event.

NATIONAL SECONDARY SCHOOLS EVENT: Our Congratulations to St Brendan’s College on making it three-ina-row in the National Secondary Schools Finals in Hillview last Friday. It was a new winning team this year in the form of Ben Kelliher (Capt), Brian McCarthy and Nathan Cronin as they made it a Munster and National double following their Munster win in Fermoy two weeks earlier. There was consolation for the winners of the last two years in Robbie Harnett and Fintan Martin in finishing third last Friday alongside Ronan Bennett after being second in the Munsters themselves. The three other Sem teams involved on the finished between 12th and 14th place respectively. Our thanks once more to St Brendan’s for continuing to facilitate club members playing in these events. The fruits of a lot of labour are starting to be seen in the performances.

WEDNESDAY COMPETITIONS: We started these on May 8th last and have had the following results- May 8th- Two Ball Scramble- Nett: Bobby Kelly & Jason O'Connor 33 and Gross: Connie O'Sullivan Jnr & Luke Doolan 45. May 15th- Fourball Betterball- Nett: Margaret C Looney and Niall O’Loughlin 40½. We will continue these at 7pm for the month of May. Open to club members aged 14 or over. Entry €4 per player with an optional €1 fee for a Hole-In-One.

MUNSTER STROKEPLAY (ADULT): Entries for these events must be received and paid for (€15) by next Monday May 27th in the clubhouse at 7.30pm to meet Pitch & Putt Ireland Office deadline.

Killarney RFC

AGM: Our AGM has been set for Wednesday the 29th of May next and will take place at Ross Products, located on Ross road, starting at 7:30pm. All welcome.

CLUB AWARDS: Our Club awards take place at Aghadoe this Sunday between 2 and 4pm and we will hold a BBQ and

have the 6 Nations Trophy present on the day for photos so be sure to pop up and spread the word.

TAG TUESDAYS: Our Tag Tuesdays kick off for the summer at Aghadoe next Tuesday the 28th at 7pm and new players very welcome. Remember no experience necessary and fun guaranteed. For details call Eoin on 087 2146126.

WELL DONE GIRLS: Well done to Eliza O'Sullivan, and Keelin O'Shea of our U16 girls squads and Fia Whelan, Ava O'Malley, Ella Guerin-Crowley and Emma Dunican of our U18 girls who were selected for Munster for the U16 and U18 Interprovincial 7's tournament taking place last weekend and next weekend in Dublin. Best of luck to the girls and congratulations on the selections.

GIVE IT A TRY: Our Girls only Give it a Try programme aimed at getting girls playing rugby runs every Tuesday at Aghadoe at 7pm and new players very welcome. For details simply come along or give Ger a call on 087 1240365.

Muckross Rowing Club

LEE REGATTA: Last weekend, our crews competed in the annual Lee Sprint Regatta at the Cork city marina. The event is the latest to adopt a two-day format, with Masters events reserved for Sunday. On Saturday, the club had great success with four wins, eight second place finishes and another eight third place finishes. Congratulations to our winning crews and well done to everyone who competed. First place: Men’s J16 Double: Ronan Fahy, Cian Scannell (Final E); Men J16 Single: Ronan Fahy (Final A); Adiel Cazacu (Final B); Men’s J14 Single: Aaron Hegarty (Final E). Second Place: Men’s J16 Quad: Adiel Cazacu, Cian Scannell, Darragh Kavanagh, Diarmuid Moynihan (Final C); Men’s J16 Double: Diarmuid Moynihan, Diarmuid Murphy (Final A); Nathan O’Connor, Adiel Cazacu (Final D). Men’s J16 Single: Nathan O’Connor (Final E). Men’s J14

Double: Aaron O’Connor, Aaron Hegarty (Final B); Men’s J14 Single: Aaron O’Connor (Final C). Women’s J15 Single: Reailtin O’Donoghue (Final C). Women’s J14

Double: Miren O’Connor, Kate Dennehy (Final C). A full results round up can be found on our Facebook page.

DUBLIN METRO REGATTA: This Saturday, the club will have 14 of our Men’s crews competing in the Dublin Metro Regatta in Blessington, the third of four Grand League regattas this season. Best of luck to all competing!

UPCOMING: Bantry Regatta, Sat Jun 1st, Reendonegan Lake; Munster Branch Regatta, Sat Jun 8th, NRC Farran; Cork Regatta, Sat Jun 22nd, NRC; Rowing Ireland 1km Classic, Sat Jun 29th, Lough Rynn; Killarney Regatta, Sun Jun 30th, O’Mahony’s Point.

Workmen’s Rowing Club

CORK: Summer has arrived with a bang. The fantastic weather over the week-

end again allowed our crews to take part in the Lee Regatta in the Marina, Cork on Saturday last. Well done to all our crews and coaches for their competitive efforts at the Lee Regatta this weekend in the Marina, Cork. Our crews are preparing for the next regatta in Bantry on the Reendonegan Lake in Bantry on the 1st June next.

TRAINING continues as usual for all members.

Killarney Swimming Club

UL: Killarney Swimming Club competed in the John Dempsey Memorial Gala at UL on Sunday. We had 10 medal winners, 28 Personal Bests and many first swims! Five swimmers attended their very first gala! Results: Juan Avila Silver 100 Fly. Daniel Cremin Gold 100 Back, Silver 100 breast, Bronze 100IM. Emma Hallissey Bronze 50 Fly. Beibhinn Kiely Silver 50 Free. Lily Larkin Bronze 100 Fly. Kyrylo Lutchenko Bronze 100 back & 100 Fly. Ronan O’Leary Bronze 200 Free. Well done to all our swimmers.

Killarney Salmon & Trout Angling Club

CUP: The Mick Griffin Memorial Cup was fished last Sunday on Lough Lein. There was a fantastic turn out and one of the big talking points was on the large swarms of hatching sedge flies out on the waters, a lovely sight to behold. Our top five rods on the day were as follows: 1st Mick O’Farrell, 2nd Dave Mears, 3rd Tim O’Connor, 4th Aidan O’Callaghan, 5th Steve Cambell. Heaviest trout went to the rod of Dave Mears. Following on from this competition, the points race for angler of the year see's Anthony Griffin maintaining his lead at 19 points when his nearest rivals are Aidan O’Callaghan on 17 points and Dave Mears on 15 points. Our next outing is on the 09th of June when we will fish for the Church Island Cup - there will be a break until September for competitions, so we look forward to a good turnout before the summer break.

Kilcummin

KILCUMMIN CCÉ: Kilcummin CCÉ wish all of our competitors in this year’s Fleadh Cheoil Chiarraí the very best of luck. Fleadh takes place again in Ballybunion this year with dancing competitions on the weekend of 8th/9th June and music, singing, storytelling and comhrá competitions on the weekend of 15th/16th June. For timetables and a full programme of events, to include street entertainment, see www.kerrycomhaltas.ie.

TRIP TO KNOCK: Parish Pilgrimage to Knock will take place on Saturday 15th June, leaving Kilcummin village @7am. Food/refreshments in Gort (optional). For booking, please contact Kilcummin post office.