Tipp Echo December 4 2024

Healy makes Dáil return in gripping Tipperary election contest

Tipperary has elected its six TDs to Dáil Éireann, with Mattie McGrath topping the poll in the south while Michael Lowry led the way in north Tipp. Mayor of Clonmel, Fine Gael’s Cllr Michael Murphy secured a seat for the first time with independent left candidate Seamus Healy winning the final seat, marking his return to the Dáil after losing in 2020. Healy, a community activist and former Hospital Administrator, has a long history in local politics. Murphy, newly elected, emphasised the importance of having a voice for Tipperary in government following a period without representation since 2016. Labour’s Alan Kelly retained his seat and Ryan O’Meara will be heading to Dublin this week for his first Fianna Fáil Parliamentary Party meeting as an elected member of Dáil Éireann.

More on page 2

Tipperary TDs elected to the 34th Dáil

Tipperary has elected its six TDs to Dáil Éireann. In a nail-biting finish in the south, Mayor of Clonmel, FG

Cllr Michael Murphy was just 214 votes shy of the quota of 10,270, with a vote of 10,056 on Sunday before finally being elected. The final seat was battled over by Fianna Fáil’s Imelda Goldsboro, Sinn Fein’s Martin Browne and independent left Seamus Healy before Healy prevailed.

He was first elected to the Dáil for Tipperary South in 2000 as an independent candidate, having served as a councillor on both Clonmel Borough Council since 1985 and South Tipperary County Council.

The 74-year-old also served as Mayor of Clonmel from 1994 to 1995.

He describes himself as “a straight-talking, hardworking community activist”.

As chair of the Save Our Acute Hospital Services Committee, he has been heavily involved in campaigns to retain hospital services in the county.

A longtime trade union and community activist, he served the Impact union at local and national level as branch Chairperson.

He was a former Hospital Administrator for South Tipperary Acute Hospital Services from 1978 to 1999, and is currently a director of The Friends of South Tipperary General Hospital. Mr Healy is a founding member of the Right2Water campaign.

He first got elected to the Dáil in

2011, and was elected again in 2016, but lost his seat in 2020.

Cllr Michael Murphy, elected for the first time, paid tribute to all the candidates, particularly to Deputy Mattie McGrath on his poll topping performance.

“I’m excited. It’s one journey over, but big challenges ahead. I’m looking forward to taking my position, please god, in the Fine Gael parliamentary party.”

Fine Gael were particularly hungry to regain a seat in Tipperary South after a long period of having no seat in the county.

“We’re without Dáil representation since 2016. For me, in the context of the next government – and who knows what that government will be – but there is a strong likelihood that Fine Gael will be part of that government.”

In the event that is a government including Fine Gael, one of his key messages is that it helps to have a voice for Tipperary in government.

Clonmel, Carrick-on-Suir, Cashel, Tipperary town and Cahir face very similar challenges, in trying to obtain funding for local amenities.

“Having a voice in government does help.

“That’s why my 35 years in the private sector – I had a European role as well – I want to get my teeth into those challenges.”

Asked if Tipperary might be in line for a cabinet position or a Ministerial position of some kind, were FG to go back into government, Cllr Murphy said: “I’m not even go-

ing to even entertain that question. I’m 35 years in the private sector. I’m heading into national politics – I have an interest in legislation, I want to be a legislator, but you have to learn to walk before you run.”

Cllr Murphy said he will work ‘day and night’ for the people of Tipperary. Would he support another FF-FG coalition? “I would say in the context of the challenges we face, and I’ve had that European role for the last 10 years – I’m conscious of the geopolitical situation.

Meanwhile, in the North, Ryan O’Meara will be heading to Dublin this week for his first Fianna Fáil Parliamentary Party meeting as an elected member of Dáil Éireann.

It’s been a remarkable year for the Cloughjordan man who has gone from being a Parliamentary Assistant to a County Councillor and now a TD.

As predicted Michael Lowry topped the poll. Speaking afterwards he said, “I have unbroken service now in the Dáil which is a great achievement, but I always say I’m only as good as my supporters have made me.

“It’s about my family, it’s about my friends, it’s about my supporters. They are so dedicated, so committed and so alive. The minute we raised the flag for the election, I knew everything was going well. Labour’s Alan Kelly retained his seat. Deputy Kelly has been a TD since 2011 and previously served as Senator and Member of the European Parliament.

PLANNING NOTICES PLANNING NOTICES

Tipperary County Council Tipperary County Council

We, Clontrac Ltd., intend to apply to the above authority for planning permission to construct a wholesale warehouse including all associated site development works such as yards, carparking areas, fencing, lighting, drainage and access from the existing Ard Gaoithe Business Park road at Ard Gaoithe Business Park, Lawlesstown, Clonmel, Co. Tipperary. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Alex & John Sheehan intends to apply to Tipperary County Council for Permission to construct (i) Calf shed (ii) Slatted tank (iii) Manure slab with wall and all associated site works at Tannersrath, Clonmel, Co Tipperary. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours.A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed by : Aidan Kelly (ADPS) Agricultural Design & Planning Services (085 7466211)

Tipp Echo Planning Notices accepted up to 11am on Tuesdays

Source:- https://www.pranichealing.ie/

https://mckscharity.ie/

CHRISTMAS COMPETITION!

Cashel Christmas market a roaring success

In what the organisers hope will become an annual event from now on, this years Cashel Christmas Market was deemed a huge success last Sunday at Halla na Féile. From when the doors opened at 1pm, after the initial rush, a steady stream of people went through the doors to sample the wares of almost forty different stalls. From Christmas decorations, to arts and crafts, to huge photographic displays, along with a range of different foods and baked goods, there was certainly something for everyone. The organisers of the event, Le Chéile Caiseal put together the fair in less than a month, and were more then happy with the outcome when the doors closed on Sunday evening. The abiding feedback from those who both

displayed goods and those who bought them, was that it was brilliant that the town was able to host the event, and that the range on display was excellent.

Christmas Markets are a major tourist attraction across Europe, and in recent years some Irish cities are also beginning to put on huge displays, which bring large numbers of visitors into Cashel. The local group feel that maybe from this small acorn and larger event can grow. It would certainly represent an economic boom to the town, and would be welcomed by all businesses if the event can generate any new customers. For now, the group will enjoy a well earned break after a very busy year, but already have some ideas in the pipeline for 2025.

Cashel Town in talk of the

By Liam Browne

Cashel Garda Station

Re-opens after extensive renovations are completed

When the Garda Station closed in Cashel for renovations, there was a real fear in the town that it might not open again, but that was laid to rest this week, when the station at Hogan Square reopened once again to the delight of the townspeople. Works which began on the building in December of last year, have now been completed with extensive renovations and modernisation taking place, and hopefully the station will be a modern, comfortable

facility for those who have to work in it, and the members of the public who use it for various matters.

After extensive lobbying by locally elected councillors and other business and community leaders in the town, extra services have been added to the newly opened facility, and it will now also serve as a training centre for young recruits coming from Templemore. Gardaí will be operating out of the station on Hogan Square on

a twenty-four/seven basis, from Monday, dealing with calls for service and can be reached on 062 75840. Remember, the door may be closed in the evening, but Guards will still be operating from inside the station. The public office will be from 10am1pm and 2pm-5pm on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. And it will be open from 11am-1pm and 2pm-6pm on Tuesday & Thursdays. Best of luck to the Gardai in their new premises

Community School teacher receives

First in Class award

Cashel Community School were delighted to find out last week that one of their current staff was the winner of a very prestigious academic award. They gave hearty congratulations to past pupil and current member of the teaching staff, Mr. Stephen Foley, who teaches languages, both Gaeilge and French at the school, was honoured with the prestigious National Universities of Ireland, Scholarship and Prize in Education. This remarkable achievement was awarded to him at a special ceremony in Croke Park in recognition of his outstanding performance, earning first place in the Masters in Education programme across Ireland. This is a truly incredible accomplishment and a testament to his dedication and excellence in the field of education. He is also a very popular teacher, and the school are proud of Stephen’s success and thrilled to have him as part of the teaching team at the school

Stephen Foley, who teaches both Gaeilge and French

If you have a story, news of an event or you know something that we would be interested in. Email info@tippecho.ie or call 052 61 48800

Remembering a Cashel Tragedy, The Ryan Hotel Fire

BY LIAM BROWNE

The top of Main Street in Cashel, is dominated by the Old Xtravision building, where the wide street converges with Friar Street to the right, or curves around to Canopy Street on the left. For most younger people, there was nothing there, before the now defunct video sellers opened at the height of the VCR boom in the 80’s. But go back a few decades earlier, and the space belonged to a very different building, Ryan’s Hotel. That was until tragedy struck one December afternoon, and it was gutted by fire, on “Farmer’s Christmas”, the 8th of December, 1958.

The Hotel, had been in the Ryan family for generations. For owner Benny Ryan & his wife Pascal it was not just a hotel, it was also their family home. At that time, they had a young family, looking forward to Christmas, just as any other family at that time of year. The Hotel gave considerable employment around the area and was frequented by commercial travellers from all over Ireland as well as visitors from abroad. It was a great venue for social gatherings & special occasions. That Monday, the 8th was a Holy Day, a Church Holiday, the Feast of The Immaculate Conception, which meant it was also a school holiday so the

children were not at school when the tragedy struck, changing their lives forever. They lost not only their home with all their belongings, they also lost their family business. Thankfully there was no loss of life.

The Ryan children were normally looked after by a wonderful woman called Mary Anglim (nee Doran), who was the children’s nurse. Mary hailed from Tinahealy, Co. Wicklow and was very popular with staff and children alike. “The Nursery” was a room upstairs, located near the dining room, where Mary normally looked after the children. The usual Monday Fair Day, (which for younger readers does not mean the weather was good) was taking place outside on the Main Street. Animals, mostly cattle, were bought and sold by local farmers. Business was done both inside and outside, much of it over a few drinks in the local pubs and hotels. It was always a busy social occasion. Bobby O Grady was in charge of the bar that day as Benny and Paschal had gone out to their farm on the Clonmel Road in their pony & trap (which was an item of beauty).

It had quietened down after dinner (then served in the middle of the day) when young Bobby was suddenly alerted by someone shouting into the bar that the place was on fire. He ran from the bar through the coffee room into

the hallway of the hotel, where the kitchen, lounge, including resident’s bar, and family living room were located. Although he could smell smoke, there was sign of neither fire nor people. Thinking the children or anybody else, may be upstairs where the dining room, bedrooms and the nursery were located, he checked those too, but thankfully they were empty. The children must have gone with Benny and Paschal to the farm, so Bobby ran back to the stairs, where thick smoke was beginning to form.

The late Jack Fitzpatrick from The Green shouted up that there was no way down for the young barman, but he ran across to the other side of that room where he knew there was a fire escape, which was quite tricky to exit from (normal enough in those days). He climbed out onto the roof, which consisted of slabs, & ran across it, before jumping into the yard below, which was owned by McGraths Grocery Shop. He then made his escape into the street through the shop where he realised the fire had spread like wild fire. The lounge & bar which he’d left such a short time ago, were gone. By then, a large crowd had gathered outside, shocked at mesmerised at what they had just witnessed.

That day of 8th December 1958 was a huge tragedy for Cashel, as well as for the Ryan family. Not only had they lost their business,

staff lost jobs and friendships built up over many years with staff and customers from near and far. The town had lost a very popular and important venue for social events & gatherings, commercial travellers from all over the country lost familiar lodgings, visitors from near and far, lost a place to stay. And people lost a place to court and step out with a loved one, such as Mary Doran, the children’s nurse, who was meeting PJ Anglim throughout her courtship, until they married and settled in Rosegreen. May they rest in peace as they are no longer with us.

Despite the tragic nightmare, Benny Ryan young Bobby a job in Clonmel, collected his bicycle and delivered it to him, so he could get around, but more importantly, so he could go home to see his mother. He still has grim memories of cycling the sixteen miles from Clonmel to Cashel late on that Christ-

mas Eve through driving rain and he didn’t even catch a glimpse of Santa nor his reindeers to hitch a ride!

So, if you happen to be on that Friar Street block maybe around Martin Dwyer’s butchers, or Darcys, during December, you might think back how life changed so fast on that painful day for a family back then. Cashel can be very proud of Benny and Paschal, and the wonderful contribution they made to the town. They always made sure that visitors to their hotel left with happy memories of their stay, while locals found

it a wonderful place to meet up. Bobby never lost touch with the owners over the years, and last saw Benny when he visited him in St. Theresa’s nursing home in Cashel shortly before he died. Old photographs and memories are all that remain now, as the town wishes they might still have an imposing hotel edifice dominate the top of its primary thoroughfare. Maybe someday again, it will.

(Bobby O Grady is from Cashel & has been writing for Dublin Magazine, Three Rock Panorama for many years)

CARRICK SWAN

12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS

The 2024 Carrick Swan 12 Days of Christmas Draws began on Tuesday evening, this week. Over the 12 days, weekday draws will take place at 7pm each evening.

Weekend draws will take place at 12noon. The draw/results will be published on Facebook each evening.

Carrick Swan club would like to thank everybody who has supported the draw again this year. It is very much appreciated and allows us to improve our facilities year-on-year. Thank you!

A.G.M

The Annual General Meeting of Carrick Swan Club will take place on Friday January 10, 2025.

If you think you might have a few hours per month to help with the administration side of the club, now is the time to put your hand up. Reach out to any current committee member or reach out to us on Facebook for more information.

Volunteering with Carrick Swan is a rewarding way to connect, grow skills, and support our club. Volunteering with a hurling, football, and camogie club doesn’t mean you need to coach a team. There are dozens of ways you can help, off the field.

New volunteers are always welcome and are essential to running the club, helping to organise events, and we’re committed to ensuring they feel valued, supported, and well-informed.

Think about it over the next few weeks.

ON-FIELD ACTIVITIES

COME TO A CLOSE

On-field activities for Carrick Swan Club ended last week, marking the end of another great playing year for the club.

We would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank all our players and coaches for their hard work, dedication, and commitment throughout 2024.

From our U6 Cygnets Academy in hurling, camogie, and football, right up to our South Senior Hurling Champions, each of you has played a vital role in the success of our club this year.

We can’t wait to see everyone back in action in 2025—and for many more years to come. Here’s to continued growth, teamwork, camaraderie, and success!

JUVENILE SCENE

On-field activities might be over, but the girls and boys of Carrick Swan are currently in the

middle of their winter outings.

Last weekend, our U10 girls had a fantastic time at Hotshots Bowling in Clonmel, while our U8 girls enjoyed a wonderful day at World of Bounce.

Next weekend, our U7 Cygnets will visit the Carrick-on-Suir Fire Station for their Christmas evening out on Friday.

Also, our U9 boys are gearing up for a PlayStation battle as we hold an FC25 tournament, for them, followed by some refreshments.

Carrick Swan club like to congratulate Charlie Torpey Walsh who played midfield last week on the South Tipperary u13 Dom Browne Cup winning team. South Tipp beat Mid Tipp in the final. Well done, Charlie. Super stuff.

CLUB LOTTO

There was no winner of last week’s Carrick Swan Lotto. Nine people matched 3 and won €30 each. The numbers drawn last week were 03 - 15 - 21 - 27.

This week, our Lotto jackpot is €3,500. The draw takes place on Thursday night, each week, and it costs just €2 to enter.

CONDOLENCES

The club was recently informed that former player Shamie Flynn passed to his eternal reward some time ago in England.

Shamie was a very fine player with the club winning minor honours in 1956 as a forward and then in 1957 he played in the half back line on the Swan senior team.

He won back-to-back senior South medals in 1958 and 1959 when he played in goal at that time and continued to give great service to the club winning a much-coveted junior south title in 1965 when he played as a half forward.

Shamie had all the skills as evidenced by his filling many positions on the Swan teams when needed and after emigrating in the late 60s he kept a keen interest in the club up to his passing. All in the club extend our sincere sympathy to Shamie's family both here and abroad, Shamie will be remembered at a mass to be held in St Nicholas Church on December 7th at 7.30pm. Ar dheis Dé go raibh sé. Carrick Swan club would also like to pass on our condolences to the Duggan family of Marian Avenue, and the Flynn family of Ard Mhuire on their recent bereavements.

CARRICK UNITED

Carrick Under 15’s make long trip worthwhile.

On Saturday last Carrick United under 15s travelled to the Wexford/ Carlow border to face Bunclody in their latest SFAI cup game.

Horrible conditions greeted the team for the start of the match and they only worsened over the course of the 70 minute game. Playing with a near gale wind in the first half, the young lads started strong and were 0-3 up within 20 minutes. The home side pulled two goals back in quick succession and at the short whistle the score was 2-4.

A host of changes at half time by Ian Cleary saw his side settle into a different style of play in the second half, where conditions called for short crisp ground passes and the boys in green and white played their way in the next round of the cup on a fantastic scoreline of 3-8.

A great result for last year’s unbeaten under 14’s who are on the road again for the next round but thankfully for the team, supporters and families the trip is a lot shorter as they face Cahir in Cahir.

HUGE LOCAL INTEREST IN FINAL COUNT OF GENERAL ELECTION

As Sunday evening approached and news coming from the count centre in Thurles began reaching the community in local interest peaked as the hundreds of supporters of Seamus Healy eagerly awaited the distribution of Martin Browne’s votes. Martin himself is a very popular figure in the area as was portrayed in the results from the booths in Carrick where Seamus topped the local polls and Martin was a strong second.

As it transpired a massive 3,285 votes from Browne to Healy saw the popular independent overtake Goldsboro (FF) to clinch the third and final seat.

During the lifetime of the last Dail, even though narrowly losing out his seat, Seamus continued to hold advice and support clinics in the town and the people remembered this while putting pen to paper in the ballot booths. Since the closure of Saint Brigid’s hospital both the man who lost his seat and the man who regained his after a hiatus from the last Dail had been to the fore in raising the issue and keeping it to the fore.

Seamus is a strong voice for the people of Carrick and his presence in Dublin can only be a positive thing for our community.

Christmas Lights Switch-On

Huge crowds gathered on the Main Street on Saturday last to witness the man himself travel all the way from the North Pole to switch on the Christmas lights in the town.

This year’s lights are tasteful and a beautiful addition to the town.

As always, the brilliant lads and lassies in Carrick On Suir River rescue were on hand to assist with the man in the red suit and get him back to Lapland to continue on with his preparations for the big night ahead of him on the 24th.

Carrick On Suir C.O.S.B.A. deserve great credit for their efforts every year and this year the business group paid particular thanks to the fabulous Brass band, Eoin Fitzgerald Electrical, Paul and all in the Carraig Hotel and Fergus Power.

Seamus Healy and family celebrate his election to Dáil Eireann after he took the third seat in the South Tipperary constituency following last Friday’s General Election

Acknowledement & 1st Anniversary

Catherine(Cathy) O’Neill

We wish to thank everyone, family, friends, and neighbours who have shown us kindness and support during our sad loss.

To all who sent mass cards, flowers and sent beautiful messages on RIP.ie

To all the emergency services, to those who travelled long distances to offer condolences at the funeral, thank you.

Thank you to Condon’s Funeral Directors for your kindness and professionalism. To Fr Billy Meehan and Fr Paul Waldron (Carrick) and to Andrea Houlihan for the beautiful hymns.

We are so grateful to the families and friends who provided food and catering and thanks to the Princess Bar.

A heart warming thanks to Cathy’s friends and staff from Dunnes Stores who provided a guard of honour. As it would be impossible to thanks everyone individually, please accept this as a token of our deepest gratitude.

Loved and remembered by your family, children Aaron and Shauna, mother Marian, Erica, Mark and Johnny and granddaughter Millie.

1st Anniversary Mass will take place, Saturday December 7th in St Mary’s Church, Clonmel at 6.15pm.

In Memoriam In Memoriam

Catherine(Cathy) O’Neill

We miss your smile We miss your laugh And all the times We shared. Forever in our thoughts from all your friends in Dunnes Stores Oakville.

TIPP ECHO

FUZZ’D UP

BANKSY’S GRAFFITI

ACCESSORIES

FOOTBALL

SMOKING ACCESSORIES

AIRSOFT

PANTHER FORCE

Sports Clubs and businesses rally round after huge damage to Scoil Chormaic pitch

In a wonderful display of community spirit, Cashel Rugby Club and some other local businesses rallied around to offer help to Scoil Chormaic, when their school football pitch was damaged in a shocking display of anti-social behaviour last weekend.

On Sunday morning last, it was found that someone had driven onto the pitch the night before, doing donuts and handbrake turns, which severely cut up the already soft pitch, leaving huge damage. The pitch is also used by young schoolboys and girls

teams of the local Cashel Town club, and such was the extent of the damage, it looked like the pitch might not be able for games for a long time, as well as costing the school and club a significant amount of money to repair.

But within twenty four hours, both Cashel Rugby Club and an as yet unnamed local business had made contact with the school, offering to repair the damage for free. While it was a huge gesture, it was unsurprising, as the Rugby Club has always been very generous with the use

of their wonderful facilities at Spafield, which they also offered. This is in keeping with support they have given to other clubs in the past. The local business is also well known in town, but want to remain unnamed for the time being, but sources at the school have expressed huge gratitude for the offers made. On the matter of the damage, Gardai are seeking to find the perpetrators, so if anyone has any information, the Gardai would ask them to pass it on at Cashel or Cahir Garda Station.

If you have a story, news of an event or you know something that we would be interested in. Email info@tippecho.ie or call 052 61 48800

Tipperary Peace Convention present

‘Reflections for Christmas’ event at the Tipperary Excel

Tipperary Peace Convention, known for its commitment to fostering dialogue, unity, and harmony, extends a heartfelt invitation to join in ‘Reflections for Christmas’ at the Tipperary Excel, Tipperary Town, on Monday December 9th at 11:00am. This special occasion is an opportunity to pause amid the busyness of the season and embrace the deeper significance of Christmas; a time for peace, hope, and renewal. Christmas is more than a festive celebration; it is a season of reflection. It invites us to look beyond the glitter and gaiety and consider the enduring values of compassion, kindness, and togetherness. The Tipperary Peace Convention’s ‘Reflections for Christmas’ event provides a meaningful space

to ponder the blessings in our lives and the ways we can extend peace to our communities and the world. At the heart of the Tipperary Peace Convention’s mission is the belief that peace begins with individual action. Christmas, with its message of goodwill to all, aligns perfectly with this ethos. Whether through shared stories, moments of silent meditation, or the gentle harmonies of carols, this event reminds us that peace is not just an abstract concept but a tangible gift we can nurture within ourselves and share with others. ‘Reflections for Christmas’ is also a celebration of unity and hope, creating a tapestry of shared humanity. Participating in this event will be Dónal Gorman, Communications and Advoca-

Tipperary Town

to host a night of festivity for the switch on of the Christmas Lights

The switch on of the Christmas lights in Tipperary Town, will take place on Saturday December 7th from 5:00 - 6:00pm at the Market Yard. Tipperary All-Ireland Minor and Munster players, David Ryan, Adam Ryan and Darragh O’Hora, along with coach Conor O’Brien and Manager James Woodlock will join Santa Claus as guests of honour on the evening, and DJ Bren will provide the entertainment. Following the switch on of the lights from 5:30 - 8:30pm, there will be a Christmas Night

Market at the Abbey Street Car Park. The Tipperary Festival are delighted to be looking after the Christmas lights this year and to be working with the Tipperary Marketing Group for the night Christmas Market. The Festival Committee say that it is important for them to keep Tipperary alive, lit and enjoyable for the people of the community at this special time of year. There will be amusements, hot drinks and treats, baked goods and craft stalls. Everyone is welcome to this night event.

Town Tipp through A trip

cy Manager with Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF), HE Ambassador Dr. Jilan Wahba Abdalmajid, Ambassador of the State of Palestine to Ireland, His Excellency, Mr. Mohamed Sarwat Selim, Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt, former Minister of State, Dr. Martin Mansergh, along with representatives of An Garda Síochána and a number of organisations. Music appropriate to the season will be provided by St. Ailbe’s School Choir and Rockwell Music Academy. This event reinforces the idea that no matter our differences, the spirit of Christmas connects us all through its universal themes of love and hope. All are welcome and there is no admittance charge.

with Martin Quinn

Ambassador of the State of Palestine to Ireland Dr. Jilan Wahba Abdalmajid

Donal Gorman, Communications & Advocacy Manager MSF

H.E. Mr. Mohamed Sarwat Selim, Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt

If you have a story, news of an event or you know something that we would be interested in, email info@tippecho.ie or call 052 61 48800

First ever County title for Monard NS

Monard National School achieved their first-ever county title last week when their Under 11 football team triumphed over Ballinaclough N.S. in a thrilling contest in Holycross on Tuesday last. In an impressive display of skill and determination, Monard overcame a strong Ballinaclough N.S. team

on a final score of Monard N.S. 3-3 to Ballinaclough N.S. 1-1.

The team was coached by their teachers, Mr. Ryan, Ms. O’Dwyer, and Ms. Greene, and led to victory by captain Jack O’Sullivan, who is pictured holding the winning plaque. The team featured in the back row (left to right); Carlo Rea, Christopher

Hayes, Cameron O’Hora, Robert O’Grady, Philip O’Doherty, Jack O’Sullivan (captain), Oisín Hennessy and Nicole Ryan O’Brien. In the front row are (left to right); Tommy Cavanagh, Jamie Myers, Sophie Gaynor & Katelyn Lewis. Congratulations to Monard N.S. on their historic achievement.

Kilshane House prepare for Christmas

Success for St. Ailbe’s students in the recent cross country schools event

In a remarkable display of athleticism and teamwork, students from St. Ailbe’s have achieved great success at the recent cross country schools event

The intermediate team, comprised of Eoin O’Shea, Alex Cummin, Ethan Daly, and Steven Hanrahan, demonstrated exceptional skill and determination, securing a well-deserved bronze medal. Eoin O’Shea also stood out individually, clinching

a silver medal in the intermediate boys’ race, showcasing his talent and hard work leading up to the event. In a stunning performance, Neasa Moroney added to the team’s accolades by winning the individual gold medal in the girls’ category, proving that St. Ailbe’s has a wealth of running talent among its students. The event saw numerous schools competing, but the determination and spirit displayed by the

St. Ailbe’s students made them a force to be reckoned with. Coaches and teachers praised their dedication to training and preparation, which was evident in their remarkable performances on the course. Congratulations to Eoin, Alex, Ethan, Steven, and Neasa for their outstanding achievements! St. Ailbe’s is proud of its talented athletes and looks forward to more successes in future competitions.

The St. Ailbe’s Intermediate Cross Country team of Eoin O’Shea, Alex Cummins, Ethan Daly and Steven Hanrahan, who won bronze at the recent County Post-Primary Schools’ event.

St. Ailbe’s students Eoin O’Shea and Neasa Moloney, who achieved silver and gold respectively at the recent county post-primary schools’ cross-country event.

Harriet is looking forward to welcoming all of this months special couples celebrating their special day at Kilshane House this Christmas

Rahealty National School Special Christmas event

This December, Rahealty National School will host a very special Christmas event. On Saturday 7th December, “A Premier Night to Remember” will take place in the Premier Hall, Thurles, at 7.00pm with all proceeds to Rahealty National School. This festive evening promises to be filled with joy, music, and community spirit, and the school would love for everyone to join them.

The evening will feature performances from various groups around the Thurles area, as well as the children of Rahealty National School – the children are so excited to have this opportunity for the school.

Tickets have been distributed to families and extra tickets are available from the school if needed. So please spread the word and make your way to the Premier Hall for this very special event.

Cathedral Choir all set to raise the roof

Thurles Cathedral Choir are all set to raise the roof on Sunday evening next when they host their annual festive concert in the Cathedral of the Assumption.

The wonderful choir which performs each weekend at the 11:00am Mass and on many other occasions also, has been working hard preparing for the concert which has become part and parcel of the annual calendar in advance of the Festive Season.

An open invitation is extended to all to come along and enjoy an evening of jubilant and festive music and song at this year’s Raise the Roof Gala concert.

The Cathedral Choir will once again be accompanied by the

Recently Deceased

Clonmel Concert Band next Sunday, 1st December in the Cathedral at 7.30 p.m. No booking required for this concert and there is no charge for entry. However, donations would be most welcome on the night as the choir seeks to help with the fundraising project to replace the ailing roof of the famous Cathedral. Special Guest on the evening will be Irish soprano Gina Oberoi and a special Thurles céad mile failte will be extended to all those who will perform on the night. All proceeds will go towards the Cathedral Reroofing Project, so make sure to mark the date in your diary and get along for a real treat.

Prayed for at all Masses in Thurles parish at the weekend, were the following who have died:

John Egan, Kickham Street.

Austin O’Flaherty, Dublin formerly Croke Street

Tipperary Talons Basketball Club

The club would like to thank all parishioners and members who generously contributed to their Church Gate Collection last weekend.

St Vincent de Paul

For families or people who need help this Christmas they can make a request by ringing St Vincent de Paul at 061 317327 or email info.midwest@svp.ie Requests have to be in by December 13th. Unfortunately, due to shortage of volunteers SVP are unable to assist Santa with toys.

The St Vincent de Paul Annual Appeal takes place on December 7th and 8th. Please drop donation envelopes to SVP Centre, Parish Centre or either Church. Thank you.

Dementia Friendly, Thurles

Annual Christmas Party Cafe on Wednesday December 4th at 11 a.m. in Bookworm. Music, song and maybe a few stories for all. Mince Pies plus the annual Christmas raffle. The group looks forward to seeing everyone and all the music men and women. Christmas dress is welcome too.

Christmas Raffle

Tickets on sale at the Parish Office from Monday November 25th

A great variety of prizes. All proceeds to the Cathedral Reroofing Project. Ticket €2 each or 3 for €5.

Handcrafted Christmas Cards

Handcrafted Christmas cards kindly made by parishioners, Marina and Moireen, are available in the Parish Centre. Donations only -proceeds to Cathedral Reroofing Fund. Thurles Parish Christmas Cards and Christmas Mass Bouquets also available, (€2).

Eye onThurles

By the Cathedral Townie

Plans in train to expand Thurles company Dew Valley Foods

Dew Valley Foods, located on the Holycross Road out of Thurles and one of the largest producers of cooked bacon in Europe, is planning a substantial expansion of its factory that could create 180 jobs.

The company, founded in 1987 by local man Jack Blake whose family ran a very successful butcher business, is a privately owned meat processor, and it is now planning a “substantial capital investment” on the site, according to planning documents

submitted to Tipperary County Council. It is seeking a 10-year planning permission for the development, including an 11,267 sq m extension to the existing food-manufacturing facility and a two-storey office space.

In the documents presented to the local authority, planners for the company said there had been “significant demand for Irish-produced cooked bacon products” in recent years.

Planning documents also state that the proposed development was a “significant infrastructural construction project” and would be carried out on a phased basis, subject to operational and commercial requirements.

The construction phase of the proposed project would take place over around 10 years. Subject to receipt of planning permission, the company hopes to start next year.

‘Think Languages Week’ in Thurles schools

Transition Year students in Thurles were were busy celebrating “Think Languages week” this week.

Trinity College student, Kate Doyle came to Thurles CBS and delivered a very interesting presentation in association with Languages Connect. She spoke about studying modern Languages at third level in Ireland and the wide variety of future job opportunities for language graduates. The huge number of employers in Ireland currently hiring language graduates directly from university was highlighted.

On Thursday TY language students visited UL to take part in a variety of language-awareness and language -learning workshops, ranging from German hip-hop classes, Spanish Flamenco dancing, Escape

room, Japanese calligraphy, to name but a few. Students were also given a Campus tour by UL students.

On Friday all TY students experienced ‘language through movement’ by taking part in a Korean Taekwondo workshop.

The partaking in these activities have helped bring different languages and cultures to life for the boys.

Meanwhile in the Presentation Secondary School, Transition Year students had a fantastic day celebrating Think Languages week 2024! They participated in some exciting workshops such as Around the world in 80 minutes, Dreolín, Sign language and much more. The school was delighted to welcome back former teacher and Deputy Principal Mary B Lanigan to speak to the students.

If you have a story, news of an event or you know something that we would be interested in, email info@tippecho.ie or call 052 61 48800

CBS Thurles unveil new facilities

Multi-million Euro state of the art facilities unveiled

Recently staff, parents, students, and invited guests gathered with excitement and pride to celebrate the opening of a new, cutting-edge extension at Thurles CBS Secondary School.

The new state-of-the-art multi-million-Euro facility, part of ongoing investment in the school over recent years, was officially unveiled during a ribbon-cutting ceremony. This current development combined with recent infrastructural investment has provided the renowned educational institution with new science and engineering rooms, outfitted with the latest technology, as well as general classrooms designed to respond to the school’s growing population. The new building also features specialised spaces for students with additional educational needs, including a thoughtfully designed sensory room and daily life skills room.

Local politicians and proud alumni, Deputy Michael Lowry TD and Deputy Jackie Cahill TD, attended the event to show their support and pride in their former school. Both emphasised the importance of investing in education and fostering an inclusive environment where all students can succeed.

“Returning to the CBS today and seeing these new facilities, it’s clear that CBS Thurles is a driving force in providing students with exceptional facilities and opportunities. This accomplishment is a testament to the vision of Principal Mr. Tiernan O’Donnell, the Board of Management, and

the dedicated staff,” said Deputy Lowry. “As the school community reflects on this remarkable achievement, there is an undeniable sense of pride in the ongoing progress. With a clear vision for the future, CBS Thurles is setting the stage for the local population, ensuring that students are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to excel in an ever-evolving world.”

Deputy Lowry also expressed his gratitude and enthusiasm acknowledging the work of Mr. O’Donnell and the Board of Management commenting that, “These new facilities are not just an investment in education but a testament to the power of commitment and ambition displayed by the school community.”

Principal Mr. Tiernan O’Donnell thanking both Deputy Michael Lowry and Deputy Jackie Cahill for their ongoing support praised the new developments, highlighting the potential to make a lasting impact. “This new building reflects our commitment to providing a well-rounded and inclusive education for all our students,” he said.

SUPPORTED AND INSPIRED

“Every student deserves to learn in an environment where they feel supported and inspired.”

Mr O’Donnell noted that the new facilities were developed with a focus on inclusivity and innovation. The science lab features a modern prep room, modern lab stations and tools that facilitate hands-on experiments, while the engineering room is equipped with 3D printers, state of the

art machines and resources for designing, building, and problem-solving. General classrooms have been designed to promote interactive and adaptive learning experiences.

A highlight of the new development is the new ‘Learning Centre’, which includes two spacious special classrooms and a sensory room providing a calming space and safe environment where students can take breaks, feel secure, and re-centre throughout the day.

Chairperson of the Board of Management, Mrs. Mary O’Dwyer, expressed heartfelt gratitude to all who made the ongoing developments at the school possible. “We are deeply grateful for the support we have received from staff and parents, local leaders, and government representatives,” she said. “Together, we have provided something truly special for our students.”

Parents and local representatives were invited to explore the new building and were visibly impressed. “The sensory room is a wonderful addition,” said a parent, whose son attends the school. “It’s so reassuring to see that the school is committed to meeting the needs of every student.”

The excitement among students as they experienced the new classrooms was tangible. As CBS Thurles continues to grow and adapt to the needs of its students, these developments stand as a testament to the school’s commitment to ensuring the best possible educational experience for the local population of Thurles and surrounding areas.

A Premier Night to Remember all set for the stage

A Premier Night to Remember with Michael Molumby and friends will be staged in the Premier Hall, Thurles on Saturday next, 7th December and it promises to be just that - a night to remember.

The well-known Thurles tenor who has been entertaining thousands locally and much further afield for many years, is diverting all proceeds from the concert towards the enhancement of facilities at Rahealty National School which is only a stones throw from his home -the school recently opened a wonderful ASD classroom which is a very welcome addition. Michael has teamed up with his great friend Mary Rose McNally who is the Musical Director for the event and there will be an orchestra on hand to help bring the whole night to life.

Also joining Michael on stage will be soloists Linda Ryan; Eoin Ryan of Seskin Lane fame; Brendan Bailey and his wife Anne; Fr James Purcell, PP Thurles; and Cathy Keane – all very well known to those who attend musical theatre and live gigs in the greater Thurles area. There will also be appearances by Irish Dancers; fiddle player Therese Bourke and her traditional Irish music friends; and a special segment from the brilliant Rahealty National School Choir under the direction of Anne-Marie Dwan.

Of course, Michael has graced the stage in the Premier Hall on many occasions playing major roles

Eoin Ryan will perform on Saturday night

such as Sid El Car in The Desert Song, Nanki-Poo in The Mikado, Philippe in The New Moon, Lt. Joseph Cable in South Pacific, and Charlie Cameron in Brigadoon to mention just a few.

Adult tickets for this night to remember cost €20 while children’s tickets are €10 and are available from Rahealty National School (0504 45266); from Bookworm, Liberty Square, Thurles (0504 22257) or direct from Maria Molumby (086 3031243).

Make sure to book your ticket now to ensure that you too can be part of this very special evening on Saturday evening next.

Ursulines visit Inner Space Exhibition

Ursuline Thurles Leaving Cert Art students visited the Inner Space exhibition this week. They saw works by local artist PJ O’Connell currently on display at Thurles Library in the Source Arts Centre. They viewed the artist’s new paintings and met with PJ, a former teacher in Colaiste Mhuire Co Ed in Thurles, to hear about his art practices.

As part of the new Leaving Certificate Art curriculum, students are encouraged to foster and nurture the skills of critical, literacy and contextual inquiry by engaging with art in their local galleries as well as meeting professional, working artists.

Recollections from 2002 with Joe Kenny

Sts Peter and Paul National School, Clonmel, under-11½ ground hurling team champions, photographed on May 2, 2002. Back L to R: Mr Paddy Burke, Brian Smith, Graham Quinn, Shane Fagan, Declan Ryan, Stephen O’Reilly, Donacha Corcoran, Darren Greene, Andrew Fahey, Eric Smith and Mr John Hickey. Front L to R: Mark Ahearne, Thomas Power, Dean Horton, Adrian Shannon, Mikie O’Brien, Kevin Burke, Shane Hogan and Adam Crotty.

a

a

from the

and

on April

R: Andrew

Liam

James

Certainly, love was in the air after visiting The Thatch pub in Cloneen, for Tossie Culchie-Bar, a distant relation to Shirley TempleBar, who stopped with ‘Cupid’ – a close relation to Ken Lee – while making their way to Fethard for the Culchie Festival ‘Blind Date’ on February 10, 2002.

Photographed at Fethard Youth Club’s New Year’s Party held on January 12, 2002 are L to R: Salem Farag, Chris Whyte, Ciarán Duggan and Russell O’Meara.

Tipperary Huntsman Simon Probin received

tremendous tribute

many car and foot followers of Tipperary Foxhounds when they organised

special presentation

function

3. 2002, at Dansies Pub, Rosegreen, to mark his leaving the area. Simon had worked as huntsman with the Tipperary Foxhounds for over ten years. Simon and his wife Sheila are photographed with three of the organisers of the event. L to R John Cummins, Poulmucka; Sheila and Simon Probin; Willie McGrath, Cashel; and Tony Newport, Fethard.

‘Wolseley Prince’, who recently qualified for the Derby Trials’ at Clonmel Coursing Week by winning the ‘Hugh Bourke Memorial Perpetual Cup’ at Thurles Track, is photographed above on January 26, 2002, with the owners and breeder from Boulick, Gortnahoe, Thurles. Back L to R: T.J. Campion (breeder), Brigid Campion, Freddie Campion, Seamus Dunne (joint owner), Tim Campion (joint owner), Lilly Graydon, Liam Campion, Freda Hayes. Front L to R: Catriona and Michaela Campion, Padraig Campion and Darren Campion.

Bansha Celtic team who were beaten 2-1 by Fairview Rangers in the 4th Round of the Munster Junior Cup played at Bansha on January 6, 2002. Back L to R: Jack Leonard, Bobby Tobin, Stephen Grace, Michael Grace, Philip Doherty, Seanie Cummins, Willie Tarrant, Bob O’Brien, Colin Hayes, Shane Ferris. Front L to

Morrissey,

Russell, Eddie Grace, Micky Murphy, Cathal Moloney, Ger Butler, Shane Peters and

Phelan.

Recollections from 2002 with Joe Kenny

Photographed at Junction 7.02 Festival in Clonmel on July 8, 2002, at ‘The Revs’ gig in ‘Gallery on Gladstone’ were L to R: Michael Burke, Thomas Lonergan, Sinead Fennessy and Linda Brady. All from Clonmel.

Fethard and District Day Care Centre committee members photographed on June 13, 2002, with supervisor Sr. Christine, who was presented with flowers at her last meeting with the Fethard group. Sr. Christine, now transferred to Clonmel, was instrumental in getting the Fethard Day Care Centre off the ground and will be missed by the committee members, helpers and the many patrons who attend the centre every week. L to R: Nellie O’Donovan, Phil Wyatt, Brian O’Donnell, Jimmy Lawrence, Joan O’Donohoe, Jimmy Connolly, Megan Sceats, John Pollard, Pauline Sheehan, Mary Fennel (South Eastern Health Board). Front L to R: Carmel Rice, Agnes Evans, Sr. Christine, Thelma Griffith and Marie Murphy.

Protesters photographed on June 17, 2002, outside AIB Killenaule in opposition to the bank’s new restricted opening hours. From June 18, AIB proposed that the Killenaule branch will no longer open for business on Tuesdays or Wednesdays (except following a Bank Holiday). On Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays the hours will be from 10am to 12.30 and from 1.30pm to 4pm.

One of the largest crowds ever seen at a public meeting in Fethard attended the anti-incinerator meeting held in Fethard Ballroom on Friday, May 24, 2002. The overwhelming message from the large attendance of families from Fethard and neighbouring parishes; public representatives; T.D.’s; professionals; medical profession; representatives from farming and community groups, was total opposition to the proposed erection of an incinerator at Castleblake, Rosegreen.

Clerihan Under-15 Girls Soccer team who reached the County Community Games final, photographed on May 29, 2002. Back L to R: T. J. Lonergan, Grace Maher, Fiona Ryan, Michelle Lawrence, Ciara Roche, Marianne Butler, Michelle Gazley, Tanya Tobin. Front L to R: Claire Fox, Sara Condon, Rebecca Farrell, Monica Griffin, Anna Baker, Niamh Whyte, Elizabeth Lonergan, Amy Tobin and Sinead Maher.

Danny Carroll photographed with his family at the civic reception awarded by South Tipperary County Council on July 5, 2002, to mark his outstanding contribution to music in the locality. L to R: Nial Carroll; Cllr Denis Burke, chairman South Tipperary County Council; Danny Carroll; Daniel Carroll and Fergal Carroll.

Cahir Arts launches Irish Craft 3#

Last Friday November 29 Cahir Arts launched the Irish Craft #3 Exhibition. This is a group show with an amazing line-up of Irish craft makers including unique Christmas gifts, all 100% made in Ireland. Siobhan Caplice of Cahir Arts had special offers for those that came along on the evening and with a glass of wine and a few nibbles there was lots of Christmas cheer on the night. This Group Show will run until December 24 to give you a chance to pop in and see the beautiful Irish crafts yourself. You would be surprised at the beautiful Irish Christmas gifts that are available at Cahir Arts and you would be surprised at the great prices too. Entry is free so take a look and find that extra special Christmas gift.

Cahir Comhaltas Christmas concert

Cahir Comhaltas Christmas concert with raffle will take place next Sunday, December 15, 2024 at 3pm in Bunscoil na Cathrach Cahir. We will showcase all our musicians and welcome our new families to the branch. We will also present the SCT music certificates to our 44 students who took exams earlier this year. This is a great achievement for Cahir Comhaltas. We ask for your generous support for our raffle, which is much needed for branch costs. Míle Buíochas.

Cahir Tidy Towns

The Group is looking forward to meeting Santa this weekend as they have finished the final preparations to the Tourist Office that has turned into Santa’s Grotto in time for the for Santa visits beginning on this Saturday, December 7 from 3 – 5pm (& also after the Switching On of the Christmas Lights) from 6-8pm located in the Tourist Office on Castle Street. A visit to Santa with a present is €5 and still great value. Santa will also be welcoming children into the Grotto on Sunday, December 8 from 2 – 5pm.

Our winter programme is in full swing with pruning, winter planting and general tidying up. We will make a decision on the can collection next month as the recently introduced recycling machines seem to be a success, so our yield is back 66%. Our next collection is on this Saturday, December 7 in the usual spot of the car park from 10 -11am. Our thanks go to all who continue to collect their drinks cans for us.

Community Lotto

There was no winner of the Community Lotto Draw that took place last week on Wednesday November 27, 2024. The Draw was witnessed by Marie Casey. The numbers drawn were 17, 23, 30 & 31. The lucky Dip winners each winning €25 were Marian Myers, Mountain View, Clogheen, Nuala Fitzgerald, Golden, Kathleen Moloney, Mount Carmel, Ardfinnan and Caroline Williams, Mortlestown, Cahir. Congratulations to all.

The next Lotto Draw will take place on today Wednesday, December 4, 2024. The Jackpot is €2,500 and tickets are available in the Enterprise Centre and in local shops too.

Christmas Memorial Service

The Annual Christmas Memorial service will take place this year on Tuesday, December 10 at 7.30pm in St. Mary’s Church Cahir. At this Remembrance we will remember the little Angel’s gone too soon, by miscarriage, stillbirth, in infancy or older years. They are forever our children. It will be followed by a tree of Angel’s where you can hang an angel/bauble on the tree in memory of your child. The tree will be up until the January 6, 2025.

Anyone that can’t make it to the service please feel free to add anything to the tree in your own time. All parents, grandparents, families & friend’s are welcome. All the children’s names to date will automatically be included, but if you want a child’s name added please feel free to contact Mary Cleary. Tea/coffee will be served afterwards in the tearoom beside the parish office.

Cahir Active Retirement

Our next meeting takes place on today, Wednesday, December 4 at 2.30 pm in Cahir House Hotel. Party Fayre and music provided at the meeting. Our Bowls and Activity

Break to Killarney on takes place on from December 9 for 4 days. We wish the teams participating in the competition the best of luck. Our AGM takes place on Wednesday January 8, 2025. We wish all our members a very happy Christmas and New Year. We look forward to meeting you all on Wednesday for some Christmas cheer.

Cahir Social and Historical Society

The Society is delighted to announce the welcome return of our friend, Margaret Galvin, to Cahir. A former Editor of ‘Ireland’s Own’, Margaret will discuss the evolution of the magazine in a lecture entitled ‘Ireland’s Own, A Publishing Phenomenon Since 1902’. Margaret will pay particular attention to advertisements featured over the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s. The talk will take place in Cahir House Hotel at 8pm on tomorrow, Thursday, December 5. Admission is for €5 Members, €7 for Guests and its Free Admission for Students. The Society looks forward to seeing everyone on the night.

Margaret Galvin is no stranger to Cahir having launched her poetry collection, ‘The Finer Points’ in 2019 and in 2023 Cahir gave a warm welcome home to local writer Margaret for the launch of her sixth collection of poetry and prose ‘Our House, Delirious’. Around two hundred people attended the event in Cahir House Hotel on the night with long lines forming to buy signed copies of the book. Margaret is a great speaker and this is bound to be an interesting evening.

Cahir Town in around the

By Maria Taylor

Cathaoirleach awards for two very deserving Cahir groups

Last Thursday November 28 the Cathaoirleach Cllr. John Crosse and the Elected Members of Tipperary-Cahir-Cashel Municipal District held The Cathaoirleach Awards 2024 in Cahir House Hotel. The event was a celebration to honour the achievements of 10 Tipperary based Groups with two groups from Cahir among them. Each of the Groups was nominated by a County Councillor and was presented with certificates and a beautiful trophy on the night.

The groups were Bansha Tidy Towns, Cahir Meet and Train Group, Cappawhite Tidy Towns, Cashel King Cormac’s Premier Intermediate Hurling Team, CJ Kickham Band, Dr. Martin Mansergh, Mr. Tom Lewis, Honorary Secretary of the Tipperary Southern and District League, Myles Butcher Shop Ardfinnan, Peers Standing Strong Together / U Matter, The O’Brien Family and their achievements with the Poulmucka Ploughing Association and Tipperary Hills Pitch and Putt.

Two of the Groups from the

Mr. Tom Lewis, Honorary Secretary of the Tipperary Southern and District League was recently honoured with a Cathaoirleach award in recognition of his outstanding work over many years with the Tipperary Southern and District League. Mr Lewis was unable to attend last week’s awards ceremony in Cahir House Hotel. There to accept the award on his behalf from the chairman of Tipperary County Council, Cllr John Crosse, were Mick Halpin, Benny Tynan, Vice Chairman TS&DL and ChristyAylward, TS&DL committee member.

Cahir area were Cahir Meet & Train Fitness Group who was nominated by Cahir Councillor Andy Moloney and the O’Brien

family who were nominated by Cllr Mairín McGrath both receiving a Tipperary County Council Cathaoirleach Award at the event.

Congratulations to both local groups and all those who deservedly won awards on the night. Well done to all.

Christmas preparations gather pace

The Christmas Lights are up and running and Cahir Development are once again taking on the mammoth job of fundraising for the cost of erecting and taking down of the Christmas lights in the town for 2024. This year the Christmas lights in Cahir will be officially turned on from December 7 with lots happening on the evening and they will be switched off on January 6, 2025. Once again everyone is asked for a little help in covering this annual cost.

Over last Friday and Saturday a draw in aid of the Christmas Lights and for a beautiful hamper took place in Supervalu and it was very well supported. Thanks go to The Dolan family and staff for facilitating the draw and looking after our collectors and to all those who bought tickets and commented on our lovely lights. The draw was made at 5.30pm on Saturday evening and the winner of the hamper was Mick Halpin. Congratulations Mick, enjoy your Christmas in a basket!

Christmas Retail support programme

-Don’t forget Cahir Development are running the Christmas Retail support programme in conjunction with Tipperary County Council. This week they will be giving out 3 x €50 vouchers per day for 10 days to people who shop in Cahir (from Monday December 2 –Friday, December 13, 2024) and all you have to do is email or drop in your till receipts into the Business & Training Centre during these dates. This programme will enable Cahir Develop-

ment to give back €1,500 to the traders of the town as a thank you for their ongoing support.

Events for Christmas 2024 - On this Saturday, December 7, 2024 the Christmas season in Cahir gets off to a great start with the Christmas Tractor Parade of Tractors, Trucks, & Bikes all decked out with Christmas Lights gathering to parade through the town, making for a wonderful sight and all aid of South Tipperary Hospice. Registration for this parade is at Cahir Mart on the Cashel Road on the day and the Tractor Parade is leaving at 5.45pm via the By-pass to arrive in town for 6pm. Please call Mike Cunningham on 086 6009290 for more details. Registration is €20. There are great prizes to be won!

Children’s Lights Parade - The Kiddies Tractors and Bikes decorated with lights will start at the Castle Car Park from 6pm, along with the Parade of Nations organised by The Cahir International Club. Call Andy Moloney for further details on 086 3609110.

The Cahir Christmas Lights for 2024 will be switched on Saturday, December 7; at 6pm. Santa’s popular Grotto will operate once again this year on Saturday, December 7 from 3.00pm – 5.00pm (& also after the Switching On of the Christmas Lights) from 6-8pm located in the Tourist Office on Castle Street. Santa will also be welcoming children into the Grotto on Sunday December 8 from 2 – 5pm.

Go Fund Me - the Christmas Lights campaign is ongoing for the next few weeks and a

Go Fund Me page has been set up, so anyone who wishes to do so can donate through the Go Fund Me page at https://www.gofundme. com/f/lightupcahir24. Give a little this year to light up Cahir once again. Support for this campaign is much appreciated.

CAHIR TO SING CONCERT

Cahir Castle is the venue for the Cahir to Sing Choirs Christmas Concert which is taking place on this Saturday December 7. The concert starts at 7.30pm. Tickets are €10, please call 086 8072805 or 087 6998346 to book. All proceeds will go to Cancer Care. So if you want to get into the Christmas spirit, book your ticket now. This is always an enjoyable and uplifting concert set in the perfect Christmas setting of Cahir Castle.

ROCKWELL MUSIC ACADEMY CHRISTMAS CONCERT

On this Sunday December 8 St. Mary Church will be filled with the sound of music as, Cahir Rockwell Music Academy will hold their annual Christmas Concert on site. The concert starts at 3pm and will feature Rockwell Community Orchestra, Show Class as well as Rockwell Community Choir. Tickets are €10 and available from Rockwell Music Academy Campus in Cahir during reception hours. See info@rockwellmusicacademy.ie for more information. Join Rockwell Music Academy for a Cheery Christmas Music Showcase on the day and see the music education services that they provide to the community.

If you have a story, news of an event or you know something that we would be interested in, email info@tippecho.ie or call 052 61 48800

Cahir GAA Club

SYMPATHY - The Club sends their deepest condolences to the Eddie Lonergan and all the Lonergan Family on the recent sad passing of their mother, Margaret Lonergan RIP. Margaret was an avid supporter of Cahir GAA down through the years.

DRAW THE JOKER - the Draw took place in The Galtee Inn last Sunday December 1, and the Jackpot of €11,600 was not won.

Other winners were €100 to Karen O’ Donovan, €50 to Patrick C, €50 to Sandra Noonan online, €30

to Dermot Joyce and €20 to Cian Fitzpatrick. The next Draw Jackpot will be €11,800 and takes place this Sunday December 8, 2024 in The Punters Rest. Thank you for your support.

COUNTY SCÓR NA NÓG

FINAL - Cahir Juvenile Club was well represented at this year’s Scór na nÓg (Secondary School age) County Final. We had entries in Question Time (3 Teams), 2 Solo Singers & a Novelty Act. Well done to Liam Cleary, Billy Molan, Nora Molan, TJ Molan, Melanie

Flannery, John O’Regan, Donagh Keating, Liam Kelly, Darragh Berry, Luke O’Regan, Jojo Magee, Dan Cleary & Euan Magee, representing Cahir GAA. Congratulations to the Novelty Act who won their the Nuachleas section and will now go forward to the Munster Final this Saturday, December 7, in Cappamore. Thank you to Paula O’Regan, Gavin Berry & Erin O’Regan for their hard work preparing the participants for the final. We wish the best of luck to all those taking part in the Munster Final.

Cahir GAA Dinner Dance 2024 - On this Friday December 6, 2024, Cahir GAA, Ladies Football, Camogie & Juvenile Clubs are holding a Dinner Dance/Medal Presentation followed by music in Cahir House Hotel. Doors open at 6.30pm. Dinner will be served at 7.30pm, followed by a Band and DJ. Tickets are still available on the Cahir GAA App, price is €50 and tickets are also available from Cahir House reception. All welcome to come along and celebrate.

LEFT: At the launch on Friday night last of Irish Craft 3# were Cahir Arts Gallery proprietor Siobhan Caplice and Artist Pat Murphy of CK53 Design. This is a group show with an amazing lineup of Irish craft makers including unique Christmas gifts, all 100% made in Ireland.

Cahir Park AFC

Condolences

Cahir Park AFC would like to send sincere sympathies to the family and extended family of Margaret Lonergan who has passed away. We especially wish to extend our sympathies to our Secretary Colm Lonergan as Margaret was his Grandmother. Rest in peace.

Juniors

Cahir Park Juniors and Management travelled to Limerick last Sunday to take on Janesboro in the FAI Junior Cup. With a bus of supporters travelling to support, hopes were high. It was not their day however and despite no score at half time, the second half ended with a final score of Janesboro (Limerick) 3, Cahir Park 1.

B Team were off last weekend

Cahir Park AFC Park Youthslast Saturday Youths home game in the Fourth Round of the Munster Youth Cup against Clonmel Celtic was abandoned due to injury and will be replayed at a later stage.

Best wishes extended to injured youths player

Cahir Park AFC Youths Team and Management would like to send their best wishes to the Clonmel Celtic player that was injured and hope he recovers well.

Cahir Park Youth Bs

Our Youth Bs played a match in the Youth Division 2 last Saturday at home V Cullen Lattin and in tough conditions came away winners with a final score of Cahir Park (B) 4, Cullen Lattin 2. Well done to Team and Management.

Cahir Park Youth Bs receive new jersey’s - the Cahir Park Youth Bs Team wore their new jersey’s last Thursday evening as they welcomed sponsor Paddy Keating to Cahir Park. The Team and Management would like to thank Paddy Keating of Priority Construction for the kind sponsorship of the team jersey’s and Cahir Park is very grateful for the generous sponsorship of team gear.

Congratulations

Congratulations to our U12 girls Sarah Flynn, Inis Grace and Siún Kiely on their recent selection to the TSSDL Academy. This is testament to the ongoing hard

work put in from the girls. They will represent the club with pride. The three girls have already made a huge impact in games played so far with the Academy. Your coaches and team mates are very proud of you. Well done Girls! Football For All What a way to wrap up the session at football for all. A huge thank you to our wonderful friends at Cahir Fire station who hosted our families this morning to meet the big man himself, everyone had a fantastic time, thank you so much to everyone involved in keeping us entertained for the morning Tipperary Fire & Rescue Service.

Cahir Park 50/50 Draw

The 50/50 Draw took place last Wednesday November 27, 2024 at 8pm live on Facebook. Congratulations to Maureen Ryan who was last week’s winner. Ticket sold by Cahir Bingo.

Thank you to all our ticket sellers, all our sponsors and everyone who buys tickets; we truly appreciate your support of our Club. We remind everyone that there

Cahir Park Football For All team meet Santa at Cahir Fire Station last week.

Well done to Cahir Park U12 Girls Sarah Flynn, Inis Grace and Siún Kiely on their recent selection to the TSSDL Academy

Tipperary ETB honours Adult Learners at Cahir Awards Ceremony

Tipperary Education and Training Board (ETB) marked a momentous occasion on Thursday, 24 October, at Cahir House Hotel, hosting an awards ceremony that shone a spotlight on the remarkable accomplishments of adult learners in the south Tipperary area.

Gathering over 150 individuals who had successfully completed National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) levels 1, 2, 3 and 5 courses or Cambridge Key English Tests, the morning was filled with an overwhelming sense of pride as each recipient received their well-deserved certificates.

Among the highlights of the event was the poignant reflection shared by adult learner John Donaghy. His speech highlighted how crucial the support from tutors and peers was in his learning journey. John’s tale of determination and success left a lasting impact, showing how education can truly transform lives.

The success of this event owes much to the tireless efforts of the operational staff, whose dedication laid the groundwork for a seamless and memorable ceremony. Equally deserving of praise are the adult education tutors, whose unwavering commitment and guidance to Tipperary ETB learners throughout the year proved instrumental in their achievements.

Tipperary ETB’s Director of Further Education and Training (FET), Colin Cummins, Board Chairperson Cllr Roger Kennedy and Adult Education Officer, Kaye Mullaney, delivered powerful speeches, adding inspiration and unity to the ceremony.

Staff members photographed with students receiving Component Certificates at the Adult Education Awards Ceremony at Cahir House Hotel.

Staff members photographed with students receiving Level 2 Major awards at the Tipperary Education and Training Board (ETB) Adult Education Awards Ceremony held at Cahir House Hotel.

Staff members photographed with students receiving Level 1 Major and Minor awards. Back L to R: Mary Roche Cleary, ALO, William Joseph O’Donovan, Paddy White, Jack O’Reilly, Vitalii Barannvkov, Karyna Vechorkina, Valeriu Elisei, Leila Merla, Sarah Kearney, Sylvia Martin, Saoirse Ryan, Kevin Landers. Front L to R: Gerard Ryan, Jack Nallen, Enid Noonan, Colin Cummins, Director of FET, Roger Kennedy, Tipperary ETB Board Chair, Kaye Mullaney, AEO, Paula McGarry, and Ryan Hayes.

Staff members photographed with students receiving Level 2 and Level 3 awards at the Adult Education Awards Ceremony at Cahir House Hotel.

Back L to R: Louise Mulcahy, Peter Cleary, Martina Murphy, Isabelle O’Shea, Vadim Andrijevskij, Lamiah Sayeda, Jack Cavanagh, Nan Delaney, Patrice Duffy, Ciara O’Halloran, Kevin Landers. Front L to R: Jack Cunningham, Catherine Byron, Mary Roche Cleary, Colin Cummins, Roger Kennedy, Kaye Mullaney, John Donaghy, and Kathleen Broderick.

Staff members photographed with students receiving Business Administration awards. Back L to R: Kathleen Grimes Co Ordinator, Lisa Pigott, Arianne Guibani, Irani Farrell. Geri Cullen: Resource Worker. Front L to R: Colin Cummins Director of FET, Cllr Roger Kennedy Chairperson of TETB, Kaye Mullaney Adult Education Officer

BELOW: Tipperary ETB Staff members photographed at the Adult Education Awards Ceremony at Cahir House Hotel. Back L to R: Declan Doherty, Kevin Landers, Bernie Lonergan, James Sweeney, Peter Cleary, Ann Marie Sweeney, Mark McGuigan, Lillian Hahessy, Louise Mulcahy, Geri Cullen, Kathleen Broderick, Catherine Condon, Sylvia Martin, Jack Cunningham, Marian O’Dwyer, Karl McHugh, Sarah Kearney, David Golden Front L to R: Mary Roche Cleary, Geraldine Hennessy, Colin Cummins, Roger Kennedy, Kaye Mullaney, Lavinia English, Kathleen Grimes, and Patricia Keogh.

Adult student John Donaghy who delivered a detailed ‘Learner Reflection’ to all present, and also received a Level 3 Award for ‘Information and Communication Technologies’.

ABOVE:

Staff members photographed with students receiving Healthcare Support Awards. Back L to R: Amanda Fahey, Ann Kendrick, Mary Ryan, Suzanne O’Neill, Teresa Ivers, Michael Bourke. Front L to R: Kathleen Grimes Co Ordinator, Bernie Lonergan Tutor, Colin Cummins Director of FET, Cllr Roger Kennedy Chairperson of TETB, Kaye Mullaney Adult Education Officer

Staff members photographed with students receiving Component Certificates at the Adult Education Awards Ceremony at Cahir House Hotel.

Staff members photographed with students receiving Component Certificates at the Adult Education Awards Ceremony at Cahir House Hotel.

WIND FARMERS’ CONFERENCE

Out-of-touch policy needs urgent reform

Members of the Irish Wind Farmers Association (IWFA) attending its Annual Conference on Thursday last, November 28, voiced their concern at the slow progress of community wind energy schemes in Ireland due to bureaucratic policies.

The IWFA welcomes the proposed Small Renewable Energy Support Scheme (SRESS) and is calling on the new Government to be proactive and properly support Ireland’s small onshore wind energy sector –

1. Remove the bureaucracy and simplify the regulatory processes, both timeline and cost, to allow communities and small enterprises to engage more easily in renewable energy projects.

2. Bring the proposed tariffs for wind projects in line with the 20 per cent top up provided to solar projects.

3. Reduce the 100% community ownership stipulation in the Small Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (SRESS) to facilitate community led partnerships with experienced developers. Revert to 51% community led projects model.

CHALLENGES ARE MORE

DIFFICULT NOW

The announcement by the Department for the Environment, Climate and Communications (DECC) in February 2021, mandating that community category projects under the Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS) be 100% community owned made the challenges of locally owned wind farms significantly more difficult according to the IWFA.

“That decision has set back the progress of onshore and wind community initiatives by at least five years,” a spokesperson for the

IWFA, Pat Blount, commented at today’s annual conference, “It makes sense for locally owned wind farms to partner with experienced developers and make the transition to a locally owned models viable, rather than relying solely on larger scale developers or multinationals.

“It’s very risky business and if we’re going to get communities involved, we need to de-risk those critical areas.”

- Tommy Cooke, a County Tipperary based wind farmer, at Ballincurry Wind Farm.

Without reform to the regulations there is a high risk of not achieving the 500MW target for 2030.” He concluded.

The strict requirements and planning mire have rendered the development of onshore community projects nearly impossible, exacerbated by a lower price tariff than large RESS for wind.

Tommy Cooke is a Tipperary based wind farmer, Ballincurry Wind Farm and former IWFA Chair. He has been involved in wind energy for more than 20 years. Speaking the IWFA Annual Conference he explained, “My main concern for the future is making sure people get more involved in building sustainable communities. We all know the benefits are there, cleaner energy, lower costs, and energy independence —but we need more communities involved in energy projects.

We’re here at our Annual Conference to see if the Government would create more certainty around some of the policies that would deliver those projects. One thing we’ve learned as small wind farm developers is that it’s very risky business and if we’re going to get communities involved we need to de-risk those critical areas for those projects.”

IWFA members are urging the Government to launch the Small Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (SRESS) scheme. IWFA members fear that the anticipated scheme will struggle to stimulate the renewable energy sector due to the strict regulations.

DEVELOPMENT OF SMALL ONSHORE PROJECTS

Paddy Phelan, Chair of the IWFA Council, stated, “With over 120 representatives at our Annual Conference, it’s evident that there is a strong desire for the development of small onshore wind projects, which is crucial for Ireland’s energy independence as we move towards Net Zero electricity system.

As demonstrated by our speakers today, local farmers like Michael Quirk in Cork and Tom Ryan from Wicklow, renewable energy can succeed in our communities, the proposed SRESS supports shows green shoots to become more accessible and practical for all but remains unviable to communities and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with the level of support proposed for wind projects.”

The IWFA Annual Conference, sponsored by Flogas, brought 120 wind farmers, community groups and SMEs together at the Lyrath Estate Convention Centre. Jim Breslin, Renewable Energy Ireland Chair was the keynote speaker. SRESS, the planning process, grids and markets were on the agenda.

Paddy Phelan, Irish Wind Farmers’ Association (IWFA) Chairman, speaking at the annual conference held in Kilkenny on Thursday last. Photo: Vicky Comerford.

Ailís Feehan, IWFA with Tommy Cooke Tipperary wind farmer, Ballincurry Wind Farm, at the annual conference held in Kilkenny on Thursday last. Photo: Vicky Comerford.

Paddy Phelan, IWFA Chairman, and Georgina Armitage, Carrig Wind Farm, Tipperary, at the annual conference held in Kilkenny on Thursday last. Photo: Vicky Comerford.

FARMING IN FOCUS TIPPERARY

ACRES calamity continues for farmers – IFA

IFA National Rural Development Chair John Curran has called on the Department to devote whatever resources is necessary to sort out ACRES payments once and for all.

“Advance ACRES payments for year 2 started to issue last week which was positive to see, at least for those that received it. We thought the stumbling blocks of 2023 were overcome and sorted out once and for all, but it appears to have been a false dawn for many,” John Curran said.

“We are hearing from various quarters in recent days, including from ACRES CP Teams, that many farmers awaiting balancing payments, including those involving the Rare Breed action, won’t have their cases processed or paid until early 2025 at the earliest,” he said.

“Close on 200 farmers have received no payment at all – nearly three years into a five-year scheme, and at a time of elevated costs of production and farm margins on the floor.”

“The Department need to sort this out. It’s not acceptable or good enough to simply keep kicking the can down the road and expect impacted farmers to just sit back and accept it. No other sector of society would put up with it. And farmers won’t either,” the IFA National Rural Development Chair said.

“The fundamental issue with

ACRES is that its overly complex and difficult to administer, with the financial return to farmers limited at best. Even with less than half the level initially anticipated entering the scheme this year, the Department still aren’t able to issue payments to all on time. If something is broken, fix it.”

“There’s no point carrying on regardless and hoping it will sort itself out, all the time leaving farmers in the lurch, unsure where they stand, with no or delayed payments received,” he said.

“Farmers deserve better. They signed up to ACRES in good faith. They have incurred costs and undertaken investment, and want to do more but for delayed Non-Pro-

ductive Investment approvals, so the Department need to honour their side of the contract and ensure payments are issued on time, and farmers know exactly where they stand,” he added.

“Transparency and direct engagement with impacted farmers to date has been less than desirable to say the least. Too many farmers are operating in an information vacuum, unable to get clarity from anyone on what exactly is happening, and going off hearsay as to why there’s a hold up or when they can expect their payments to land. That’s just not good enough,” John Curran said.

“The recent Department announced ACRES Review is a

positive first step. Initially for mid-November and now sometime in early-December, it can’t however be another talking shop or box ticking exercise that simply seeks to hear and apply lessons for an agri-environmental scheme in CAP post 2027.”

“ACRES changes are needed in 2025, not 2028. Farmers have lost faith and are already walking with their feet. IFA have made a detailed submission to DAFM around an improved agri-environmental scheme that delivers up to €15,000 for farmers, with central themes such as improved communications; transparency; scoring; NPIs etc that need serious consideration,” he concluded.

IFA President to raise concerns in Brussels about Mercosur Trade Deal

IFA President Francie Gorman will hold a series of high-level discussions in Brussels tomorrow about the Mercosur trade deal.

As part of the COPA meeting with the incoming EU Agriculture Commissioner Christophe Hansen, the IFA President said he will be raising the very real concerns about the impact of the deal for the Irish beef and poultry sectors if passed. Francie Gorman will also meet officials from DG Trade to set out the dangers of a deal for farming.

IFA will hold a bilateral meeting with our French counterparts FNSEA to maintain the strong alliance in opposition to the deal.

Earlier this week, IFA Livestock Chair Declan Hanrahan and COPA Beef Working Vice Chair Brendan Golden met beef farmers from across Europe in Brussels at the Copa Cogeca Beef Working Group where the unified opposition to this deal was again highlighted and options discussed to intensify the campaign by EU farmers to have the deal rejected.

“The impact of a negative trade deal would be felt beyond the farmgate, with processing and upstream value hit by any decision to allow more imports.”

“The Commission’s plans appear to be to ignore the dev-

astating impact of agricultural production in Brazil, while at the same time imposing greater regulations on farmers here. The next Government cannot allow this to happen. They must stand up for Irish farmers. Committing to support the beef sector as part of our General Election would be meaningless if this deal is allowed to go through,” Francie Gorman said.

“The Irish beef sector accounted for €2.7bn of our food exports last year. With 100,000 beef farmers, it is the largest farming sector in the country and has an economic impact in every parish in rural Ireland. Allowing Mercosur to pass would have serious consequences for this sector and for the poultry sector as it would totally undermine our Bord Bia Quality Assured produce,” he added.

“We secured commitments from the three main party leaders at the recent meeting of our National Council. Farmers need the three main leaders to be united on this. We need a steadfast and unified opposition to Mercosur.” “Whoever is Taoiseach and leader of the next Government must act quickly and say no to Mercosur,” he concluded.

Robust measures needed to curb dog attacks on sheep

IFA National Sheep Chair Adrian Gallagher has strongly condemned the recent dog attacks on sheep in Cork and Clare, calling it a stark reminder of the ongoing crises of irresponsible dog ownership.

He said 20 sheep have been killed in the incidence in Cork with more to be put down due to the severity of their injuries while over 7 have been killed or injured in Clare.

The IFA National Sheep Chair described the both incidents as another act of failure from Government to put actions in place to deal with irresponsible dog ownership across the country.

It’s a national crisis that needs a solution immediately. He said the time for talking is

over, dog attacks on livestock have reached unprecedented levels and farmers have had enough.

IFA have put forward strong measures that are needed to control dog attacks to both Ministers responsible for this area but we have not seen any progress on any of these proposals as the devastation continues.

He said current systems in place are failing to protect farmers and their livestock. The level of sanctions that are in place do not reflect the level trauma these dogs are causing.

The absence of a centralised database to identify those responsible for the dogs and the lack of enforcement on the ground are all

adding to this escalating issue.

Based on latest published figures of implementation of the the Local authorities, it is clear the existing obligations of dog owners are not been enforced with only 311 prosecutions initiated and just 34% of the 1,858 on spot fines paid in 2023.

He said dog ownership laws currently fall between two different departments which has led to gaps in oversight, enforcement, and accountability undermining the efforts to address the issue.

Adrian Gallagher is urging the government to act swiftly to restructure responsibilities and introduce robust measures to address dog attacks on livestock.

Clonmel Credit Union proposes.....

€2.3 million Christmas windfall in South Tipp

The Clonmel Credit Union voluntary Board of Directors has proposed a distribution to members of €2,304,000. The sum is derived from an interest rebate of 20% for 2024. Savers at Clonmel Credit Union will also receive a pre-Christmas dividend.

Over €2.3 million will go directly into the community across South Tipperary, giving a massive boost to the local economy in the run-up to Christmas.

CEO Pádraig Enright commented, “Every euro spent locally is worth up to four times the amount in terms of economic activity locally. It has tremendous benefits, stimulating all sorts of businesses, jobs, and prosperity in the community.

Clonmel Credit Union has had another excellent year, lending more than €35 million to the local community. The majority is spent locally. That is a very significant contribution to local communities right across South Tipp. To cap the year off with a €2.3 million give back to our members is superb. The team at Clonmel Credit Union is highly invested in the community, and we’re delighted with this outcome for 2024.”

Dividends and interest rebates are subject to approval at the Clonmel Credit Union AGM, which will be held on Wednesday, December 11th, at Hotel Minella.

Subject to approval, this means that Clonmel Credit

Union will return 20% of interest paid on standard rate loans for the year to September 30 2024. The proposed dividend on savings is 0.5%, subject to DIRT, deducted at source unless an exemption applies.

The funds from rebate and dividend will be lodged to members’ accounts on December 12th, for many, a welcome bonus ahead of the festive season.

“We’re delighted to offer our members this rebate just ahead of the busy Christmas shopping season in Clonmel,” said Au-

Clonmel Credit Union AGM - Wednesday, December 11, at Hotel Minella, Clonmel

Disruptions this week to water supply in Clonmel town

Clonmel Water Supply Project Team’s partners Shareridge will continue site investigation works this coming week on Thomas Street and Dillon Street in Clonmel on Wednesday 4th and Thursday 5th December from 6pm to 11pm. Temporary traffic management will be in place during this period and local and emergency access will be maintained. We regret any inconvenience that the delivery of these necessary water network im-

provements may cause and would like to thank the local community and road users for their continued cooperation and patience.

We will continue to provide you with these updates on a routine basis as this project progresses and you are welcome to share them with your members.

If you have any questions or require further details, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with the Clonmel Water Supply Project Team

drey Conway, Branch Manager at Clonmel Credit Union. “We know that these funds are a significant help and also provide a major boost for local retailers coming up to Christmas. This is another example of the Credit Union’s commitment to supporting our community, something that banks don’t do for their customers.

We aim to be one of the most progressive credit unions in the country. If you are not a member, please take the time to check out our current accounts, debit cards, mortgages and more. We would love to welcome you.”

CLONMEL CREDIT UNION ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

The Clonmel Credit Union AGM will be held on Wednesday, December 11 at Hotel Minella. Light refreshments will be served. Members are invited to attend.

On the agenda is a review of 2024’s achievements, including the successful launch of the new services, the growth in lending, the €14,000 secondary school bursary award, and a mega giveaway to celebrate 25 years of the member’s draw.

Chairman of the Board, Eamonn O’Mara, will deliver his report for 2024 and also outline plans for 2025 and beyond.

Clonmel Credit Union advises members to visit www.clonmelcu.com for the terms and conditions of the dividend and rebate proposals and for further information on the AGM.

Tipp GAA launch landmark fundraising campaign

Tipperary GAA has officially launched a landmark fundraising campaign aimed at enhancing GAA facilities across the county. The campaign features an exciting grand prize: a fully furnished home located in Bregawn, Cashel, valued at €350,000. Alternatively, the winner has the option to receive a cash prize of €300,000.

Tickets for this remarkable draw are priced at €100 and can be purchased through the Rockwell Rovers GAA Club or via the official ‘Win a House’ website. Notably, €30 from each

ticket sold through the club will be retained to support local initiatives.

Tickets are currently available through club treasurer Mary Newman or Andy Hennessy. Additionally, the first Bonus Draw is scheduled for December 15, where lucky winners will have the chance to win a luxurious two-night hotel break in Ireland, along with €1,000 in spending money. Don’t miss this opportunity to support Tipperary GAA while also entering to win fantastic prizes!

Clonmel Credit Union CEO, Padraig Enright and Chairman of the Clonmel Credit Union Board, Eamonn O’Mara. Photo: John D. Kelly

Clonmel Credit Union CEO Padraig Enright

Vibrant work on show at Ella Kavanagh’s Clonmel Exhibition

First show in 18 years does not disappoint

A large crowd turned out last Friday night to the opening of Clonmel artist Ella Kavanagh’s new exhibition A Tale of Time. Taking place in The Narrow Space Gallery, it was opened by local solicitor John M Lynch. Speaking about her work, he said ‘Ella’s work invites us to see the world anew. Inspired by the timeless techniques of the Old Master, she bring a contemporary depth to their legacy. Her still lives and landscapes are not just visual representations but sensory experiences. Her work has a vibrancy and authenticity that is truly captivating. Ella’s work reminds us of an essential truth: we are surrounded by beauty if only we take the time to see it.’

There were plenty of appreciative comments and a fair number of sales, attesting to the popularity of one of Clonmel’s most unique and talented artists.

The exhibition is open every day between now and Christmas Eve. Admission is free and everyone is welcome!

Heart ‘Patient Champions’ needed throughout Tipp

Heart and stroke patients in County Tipperary are being encouraged to join the Irish Heart Foundation’s Patient Champions Programme – after a mother told how her life was saved by a radio interview with a stroke survivor.

Fiona Meagher, 54, said Meaghan O’Brien’s description of her symptoms spurred her into immediate action when she also suffered a stroke last December.

“I said to my husband and son, I’m having a stroke, call an ambulance,” she said.

“But that was only because I had listened to Meaghan’s story.

“My son, Darradh, who is 16 and was in Transition Year, had done a F.A.S.T. (face, arm, speech and time) course two days before in school.

“In the middle of the chaos, he calmly sat me down and did the F.A.S.T. test. He spoke to the emergency call taker on the phone.”

The terrifying incident happened at her home in Ashbourne, Co Meath, shortly before Christmas last year.

Weeks earlier, the mum-ofthree had heard Irish Heart Foundation Patient Champion, Meaghan, describing her own stroke symptoms during a national radio interview.

The Patient Champions Programme aims to train patients with cardiovascular disease to lobby for better supports for their fellow patients at political level, speak publicly and in the media, and build local support networks.

The charity is now encouraging patients in Tipperary to sign up to become strong local voices for fellow patients.

Its Advocacy Campaign Manager described people like Fiona as unsung heroes of the organisation.

“The Patient Champions are a terrific addition to the Irish Heart Foundation,” said Pauline O’Shea.

“Their lived experience and desire to help others and the organisation speak out about significant issues that affect heart and stroke patients, is a powerful combination for working for positive change for patients.

“We are now recruiting for our Patient Champions Programme in 2025, and we welcome heart and stroke patients from Tipperary to apply.”

Fiona completed the programme in 2023 and has graduated - along with 30 others - as a Patient Champion.

She has since used her voice in Brussels, where AI in heart treatments was discussed, on heart

failure in Dáil Éireann, and has spoken in schools and at various events for patients and the public.

Following her stroke, tests revealed she had a hole in her heart, which a clot had passed through, causing the stroke.

She was discharged from hospital on December 22 last year and is now encouraging other stroke and heart patients to turn to the Irish Heart Foundation for support and to consider joining the Patient Champions programme.

“I didn’t know anything about the Irish Heart Foundation when I was first diagnosed with heart failure,” she said.

“It’s a shame hospitals don’t promote it more because at the very start you’re so alone, broken, upset, lonely - it’s an awful thing.

“Availing of the Irish Heart Foundation support services really helped me with my recovery so I wanted to give something back.”

If you would like to become a Patient Champion, visit irishheart.ie/patientchampions

DECEMBER LECTURE:

On Monday 9th December, Tomas Finn will speak on “Inside Rural Ireland: Power and Change since Independence” based on his recently published book. At 8.15 pm in the Main Guard.

MEMBERSHIP 2025 Renewals & new memberships €10.00. Contact: Donal Ryan, Hon. President, Melview. John Hackett, Hon. Sec. (087 2939644 / chas19.sec@gmail. com) Michael Madigan, Hon. Assistant Treasurer.

TOP RIGHT: FIONA MAHER

RIGHT: PAULINE O’SHEA

Narrow Space gallery owner Aisling Kilroy with artist Ella Kavanagh

Family and friends were among the appreciative audience at the exhibition launch

News from the Community

Golden/Kilfeacle

TUMBLING PADDIES - AND THE SHINDIG OF THE YEAR

Marcella Collins

8pm. Disco to follow band till late. Tickets available From - www. goldenkilfeaclegaa.com. Over 18s only.

Be warned that there are just two weeks to go folks, so get your tickets ASAP.

HISTORICAL JOURNAL

What a fantastic crowd turned up to the GAA Complex in Golden for the Golden Kilfeacle Historical Journal book launch last weekend

The occasion was brilliantly introduced by Robert O’Keeffe who spoke so eloquently to everyone about the idea to compile the journal.

The journey in getting ideas,photos,information, and detailed research.

Robert thanked all the people who wrote articles for this lovely book and thanked all who provided photos and information over the last few months.

Golden Kilfeacle Historical Journal is a treasure throve of information of times long past as well as up to date information on some local businesses and organizations.

The Golden/Kilfeacle GAA Club’s Massive Christmas Night Out is coming your way on Friday, 13th December when super group, The Tumbling Paddies “ - come to town for the Shindig of the Year. The Golden Kilfeacle GAA Complex will be the venue for this not-to-be-missed event.

Full bar facilities. Doors open at

On the night the book was launched by Essie O’Connell, Thomastown who has a lovely article in the book called ‘Recollection of My Life in Golden - My Piece of Paradise.’

Huge congratulations and well done to Robert O’Keeffe Martina O’Keeffe and Mary Alice O’Connor for producing a journal of valued full of local historical information which will be there for future generations to read and enjoy.

OVER 60s GET-TOGETHER

A big Christmas get-together for all over 60s in our parish and surrounding communities will take place in Golden Kilfeacle GAA complex on this Friday, 6th December from 10.30am Martina and Breda look forward to welcoming you all to the get-together this Friday morning.

GOLDEN/KILFEACLE GAA CLUB LOTTO

Our GAA club lotto jackpot

now stands at a staggering €19,400 Tickets just €2 available locally and online at www.locallotto.ie

Huge congratulations to Teresa Hinchey who won the fourth chance prize of €200. Enjoy your win Teresa. GOLF

Golden Golf Society’s second outing this year was to Thurles Golf Club last weekend and it was a great success.

The presentation of prizes took

place in Tooheys Bar, Golden. The winners on the day were: David Downey, Michael Stapleton, Don Beattie, Stuart Beattie In second place were: Catherine O’Halloran, Seanie O’Halloran, Mick Colbert, PJ Collins. In third place were: Timmy Moloney, Rian Moloney, Jenny Lawrence, Tom Moran, Huge thanks to everyone who supported our golf outings over the two days.

Essie O Connell seated left pictured with the three co-editors of the Golden/Kilfeacle Historical Journal at its launch in Golden/Kilfeacle GAA Club on Friday night last, 29th November - Robert O’Keeffe, Martina O’Keeffe and Mary Alice O’Connor.

A section of the crowd who attended the launch in Golden/Kilfeacle GAA Club on Friday night last, of the Golden/Kilfeacle Historical Journal

Essie O’Connell pictured with Colin Tuohy at the launch of the Golden/Kilfeacle Historical Journa in Golden/ Kilfeacle GAA Club on Friday night last, 29th November .

News from the Community

Moyne/Templetuohy

CONDOLENCES

Sincere condolences to the family, relatives, friends, and neighbours of Paddy Kelly, Templetuohy, Mary Anne Sweeney (née Ryan), Lisheen and Mary Gray (née Bergin), Rathdowney. May their gentle souls rest in peace.

MOYNE BRIDGE

Congratulations to our newest member, Brenda Kennedy, who was a worthy winner of the Helen Quinlan Memorial Trophy. Joint second – Biddy Shanahan & Anne Everard, third Marie Ryan. Weekly game continues each Tuesday at 7.30pm.

SCOIL NA MAIGHNE

Scoil na Maighne will hold a clothes recycling collection on Friday, December 13th. Items can be left in the school yard near the tower on the morning of December 13th from 7am to 9am. Please note that no bedding will be accepted. Many thanks for your ongoing support.

MOYNE-TEMPLETUO-

HY CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

PARADE

This year’s Christmas lights parade will take place on Saturday, December 14th. Parade will pass through Templetuohy at 5.45pm and Moyne at 6.30pm.

Donations to two very worthy causes will be taken up on the night – Teach Saoirse in Nenagh and Sr. Theresa Carey, African Missions. Donations can also be given on the Moyne-Templetuohy Christmas Parade GoFundMe page.

CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS CAROL SERVICE

Will take place in Moyne Church on Tuesday, December 17th at 7.30pm. Everyone in the community is invited to attend. If anyone wishes to perform a solo part at the service, please contact 086-3751835 by December 10th.

TEMPLETUOHY BINGO

Continues each Thursday night at 8.30pm in Templetuohy Community Centre. All support appreciated.

TEMPLETUOHY COURSING LOTTO

This week’s lotto jackpot is now €16,400. Lucky dip winners of €25 were Josephine McGreevy, Castleiney, Pat O’Connor, Templetuohy, Richie Ryan, Templetuohy, Sean Kelly, Templetuohy.

MOYNE ATHLETIC CLUB

Congratulations to all our juvenile and novice athletes who competed so well at the National Uneven Age and Novice Cross Country Championships in Tramore last weekend. Special mention to Alana Spillane winning her first inter-provincial medal, a silver, with Munster following a 31st place finish in the Girls U17 race.

The girls U11 club team finished 12th (Annie Ely, Meadhbh Hall, Órlaith Costigan, Poppy Shanahan, Quinn Corbett) with Annie, Meadhbh and Orlaith on the Tipperary team that finished ninth.

Eibhlis Purcell

Matthew Esmonde was on the Tipperary team that finished seventh in the Boys U13 event while the Novice ladies’ team of Sharon Cantwell, Eileen Ely, Louise Fogarty, and Lisa Quinlan finished seventh in the club championship with Sharon and Eileen on the Tipperary team that finished fourth.

Best of luck to all competing in the Munster B & Intermediate Cross Country Championships in Clare this weekend. Winner of Split the Bucket of €127 was Eimear Quinlan.

Thanks to everyone for contributing.

MOYNE-TEMPLETUOHY

GAA, LGFA & CAMOGIE

This week’s lotto jackpot is €6,100 with Stephanie O’Gorman, Annemarie Meehan, Caoimhe Everard, Zach & Noah Ryan, Eileen Brosnan, and John Sweeney, the lucky dip winners last week. Congratulations to the U17 football team who have qualified for the County U17B football final following their victory over Knockmealdown Gaels on Sunday last.

Well done to the Scór na nÓg quiz team of Jack Guilfoyle, Ailís Concagh, Jamie Blake and JP Moore who won the County final last weekend. They now contest the Munster final this Saturday in Cappamore at 1pm.

Well done to all the other club representatives in Music and Novelty Act.

Bansha/Kilmoyler

GALTEE ROVERS

Our under 21B hurlers lost to Kilsheelan Kilcash in Fethard Town Park, on Sunday, in the county semi-final by 1-21 to 0-6. This weekend our footballers are due to meet Golden Kilfeacle in the West Senior Football Final.

GALTEE ROVERS ST. PECAUNS AGM

The club offers its condolences to the Harris, Hayes and O’Connell families on their recent bereavements. Due to the bereavements the club AGM’s were put back one week. Our club’s annual general meeting will now take place this Saturday in the McGrath Centre at 6.30pm. The juvenile club’s annual general meeting will take place tomorrow, Thursday in the McGrath Centre at 7.30pm.

GALTEE ROVERS LOTTO

There was no jackpot winner in last week’s Bansha Kilmoyler

Sports Lotto draw. This week’s jackpot is €19,400.

Last week’s €20 lucky dip winners were: Fiona Healy, Eamon O’Connell, Willie Carroll and Kay McQuale. Seller’s prize €20: Michael Sean O’Connell.

GALTEE ROVERS ST. PECAUNS CLUB DRAW

The club draw for November was held on Saturday night. The top prize winners were: Eileen Ryan, Greenane €600; Niamh Roche, Fihertagh €300; Johnny & Mary O’Connell, Barnlough €150. Full draw results are available in local shops and on the Galtee Rovers social media pages.

TEMPLENEIRY CHURCH

Templeneiry Church, Bansha will host the following events: Art Exhibition on Friday, 6th December from 6 to 8pm in association with artists Sarah O’Connor and Deirdre Dunne and their art students. Art for sale.

Templederry

WE REMEMBER THIS WEEK

Sunday, 8th December in Killeen Church at 10 am, Nora Ryan Monaquill. 1st Anniversary Mass.

Templederry Parish will be open on Wednesday and Thursday each week from 11 am to 1 pm. People may book Masses, Christenings, etc etc. People may also request information from the parish records.

Phone 0504-52988, 0876564933 during the opening hours of 11 am to 1 pm or email templederryparishoffice@gmail. com

TEMPLEDERRY NATIONAL SCHOOL

Pre-enrolment for Templederry National school for the year 2025/2026 school year is now open. This is completed through the school website http://templederryns.ie/enrolment.

CRUMLIN CHRISTMAS TOY APPEAL

The school is making the Toy Appeal available this year. Should Anyone wishing to contribute the school will accept toy donations At the school and will organ ise for them to be delivered to NCH.

This is entirely voluntary but we know many families have experience of NCH with their children and the school wanted to provide an opportunity to recognise this.

TEMPLEDERRY NATIONAL SCHOOL DEFIBRILLATOR

There is a fully functioning and maintained defibrillator on the grounds of Templederry National School. It is located at the back of the school at the Church side of the building. It is boxed and there is no code to access it. It is free to be used, where necessary, by anybody in the locality/community.

Staff of Templederry National

Free Admission. Refreshments and Raffle on the night. Christmas Wreath workshop Saturday December 7th from 1.30pm to 4pm. All materials supplied, mulled wine and mince pies. Cost is 55 euro; contact Mairead to book on 086 1011224. Christmas Concert on Thursday December 12th at 8pm. Hosted by Dee Morrissey and featuring Ellie Peters, Ger Breen, Colin Kenny and Stephen Stokes. Special guests Mary Hoey and Mickey Joe Harte. Tickets 20 Euro from Brendan Healy Butchers or call 085 1866177

SOCIETY OF ST. VINCENT DE PAUL COLLECTION

The Annual Church Gate Collection for the St. Vincent de Paul Society, will take place on Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th December at Kilmoyler and Bansha Churches. All donations will be gratefully received.

COMMUNITY PARTY ON SUNDAY

The Clogheen Community Party will take place on Sunday December 8th.

All are welcome to come to St. Pauls, for what is always a lovely community event, and a very enjoyable evening is guaranteed.

COUNTY MINOR B FOOTBALL SEMI-FINAL

Full Time Knockmealdown Gaels Minors: 0-9 Moyne Templetuohy: 2-9.

Hard luck to the boys who came up short in the last 10 minutes against a strong Moyne Templet-

uohy team in Golden on Sunday . It was a good year overall reaching extra time in the South hurling semi-final, playing a south football final and making the county semi-final. Best of luck to the boys moving up to the adult grades in both clubs and thanks for your effort and commitment all year .

Team: Donnacha Reidy, Jack Sullivan, Luke Morrissey, Donnacha Hurley, Padraig Hickey, Jack Owens, Jason Carey, Daire English (0-2f), Ryan Breedy, Dan Burke (0-1), Tadgh Dunlea, Patrick Hennessey, Eoin Ryan(0-2),

School are trained defibrillator operatives/responders.

SANTA IS COMING TO TEMPLEDERRY

Templederry Tidy Towns welcomes Santa to Templederry on Sunday next, 8th December at 2.30 pm. All are welcome.

KILLEEN SONG AND MUSIC NIGHT

The Killeen Song & Music Night will be held in Kennedy’s Killeen, on Wednesday, 11th December at 9 pm. All are welcome.

TEMPLEDERRY GAA LOTTO

Last week’s draw was held in Youngs, Latteragh and there was One winner of the Lotto Jackpot. Congratulations to Sarah Mannion, Lorrha on winning the jackpot.

This week’s draw will be in the Ford, Ballinclough and the jackpot will be €2,000.

The numbers drawn in our most recent lotto were 5, 8,

There was no jackpot winner and one match 3 for €150- David McGrath Burncourt. Next week’s jackpot will be €3,300 in Halleys Bar in Clogheen. Thanks for your continued support.

Michael Barry

Margaret Kennedy

Conor English (0-4), Fionn Leonard.

Subs on James Morrissey, Panel Cian McHugh, Adam Sullivan, Harry Byrne, Shane O’Brien (injured), Harry O’Grady (ill). FR SHEEHY’S GAA CLUB LOTTO

13, 26.

Fresh from his poll-topping performance in the South Tipperary constituency in last Friday’s General Election Mattie McGrath, TD, was in great form with delighted supporters Teresa Mulcahy and Mary Dowling at Burncourt Community Party on Sunday last

News from the Community

FETHARD NEWS by

Joe Kenny

Christmas Market launch on Sunday last

Santa lights up Fethard at Christmas Street Market

On Sunday last, December 1, Fethard’s Christmas Street Market came alive. with a huge crowd came along to sample the fun, entertainment and the wide variety of over sixty food. Christmas gifts and craft stalls offering their seasonal goods for sale at the Convent Community Hall centre, Lower Main Street and on Main Street and The Square.

The organisers did a terrific job in keeping Main Street pedestrianised for the day and very much appreciated the good will and co-operation received from the houseowners and businesses in Main Street. This allowed for free entertainment stalls and amusements to set up and facilitate a brilliant traffic-safe family friendly environment for all to enjoy. Apart from one early shower, the afternoon brightened up with sunshine and cheer.

The highlight of the afternoon was the

arrival of Santa in his sleigh at 2.30pm to spend some time meeting children as he roamed the full length of Main Street posing for memorable photographs and chatting to his adoring young fans. A ‘Santa Train’ made continuous trips up and down Main Street ferrying young children on a visual tour of activities.

Santa had one big job left to do at 4pm, and that was to switch on the new Christmas Tree lights on The Square. Fethard Main Street had also new energy-saving lights erected in the past week which was funded by locals and businesses contributing to a ‘Light up Fethard’ fundraiser organised by Fethard Business & Tourism Group.

Great credit is due to the ‘Festivals’ committee, under the umbrella of Fethard & Killusty Community Council, who organised the daunting ‘Christmas Street Market’ to perfection. Take a bow Pamela Sweeney,

Late Heinz Gillessen, Fethard

The death has occurred on Sunday, November 24, 2024, of Heinrich ‘Heinz’ Gillessen, Coleman, Fethard. Deeply regretted by his loving wife Inge, his children Erika, Rudolf and Gabi, son-in-law, daughter-inlaw, grandchildren, great grandchildren, relatives, neighbours and friends.

Funeral Mass took place in St Michael’s Church, Clerihan, on Thursday, November 28, followed by

Annette O’Donovan, Amanda Kehoe, Shannon O’Brien, Roseann Carroll, and all the helpers they enlisted to realise their plans.

Christmas Lights ‘Thanks’

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who donated, fundraised, and supported us with the Christmas Lights this year. This incredible achievement would not have been possible without the entire community coming together.

Special thanks go to David O’Mahoney Electrical Services. David, Noel Walsh, and the entire team worked tirelessly to get the lights up in time. Congratulations to the Christmas Market organisers on a fantastic event on Sunday, and of course, a big thank you to Santa Claus for switching on the lights!

NEW MASS TIMES AT FETHARD AUGUSTINIAN ABBEY

Please Note that the following changes of Mass times in the Abbey will apply from Sunday, December 1, 2024.

· Sunday 9 am and 12.00 noon

· Monday 8 am and 10.30 am

· Tuesday and Wednesday. 10.30 am

· Thursday 8 am

Fethard Bridge Club Results

On November 13 we played for prizes sponsored by Francis Lacey and David O’Meara and the results were: 1st Nett, Dena Mulcahy and Bridget Cuddihy; 2nd Nett, Judy Doyle and Bernie Phelan; 3rd Nett, Gabrielle Schofield and Nora Ryan. 1st Gross, Monica Anglim and Betty Walsh; 2nd Gross, Anna Cooke and Eileen Frewen; 3rd Gross Francis Lacey and David O’Meara. We play Bridge in Fethard Ballroom every Wednesday evening at 7pm. New members are always welcome to join us.

St. Vincent de Paul Annual Collection

Fethard St. Vincent de Paul Annual Church Gate collection will be held at all masses on weekend of December 7 and 8. Donations can also be made online at www.svp.ie/donate/ Select our conference named: Holy Trinity Conference Fethard Co Tipp, and your donation will reach us directly, eventually. Alternatively, if you want to donate by mail, please address it to: The Treasurer, St. Vincent de Paul, Fethard, Co. Tipperary, and a receipt will be sent to you. We remind you to please do not send cash in the mail.

Christmas Party Night at Ballroom

Fethard Ballroom will hold their annual ‘Christmas Party Night’ on Sunday, December 8, dancing to the music of the very popular ‘Checkers’. This promises to a great festive occasion and all are welcome to come along and join us for a terrific night’s social dancing from 8.30pm to 11.30pm. Admission is €10, which includes tea and cakes and raffle.

Parish Church Lotto Draw Results

There was no jackpot winner in this week’s Parish Lotto on Thursday, November 28, 2024. The numbers drawn were 2, 3, 9, and 10. The winner of the weekly draw for €30 was Maureen Maher. Next week’s Jackpot for Thursday, December 5, will be €5,000.

GAA Sports Development Lotto

Fethard GAA Sports Lotto draw results for November 26, 2024, are as follows: the numbers drawn were: 6, 11, 16 and 25. We had no Jackpot winner and two Match 3 winner who received €75 each: Lisa Anglim and Jennifer Fogarty. One lucky dip winner received €100: Niall Doocey. The next draw takes place on Tuesday, December 3, when the jackpot is €30,000.

· Friday 10.30 am

· Saturday 11.30 am

The 9.30 am Sunday morning Mass is at the earlier time of 9am.

There will be no 8 am Mass on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday and there will be no 10.30 am on Thursday.

Congratulations to Kelly on graduation

Some of the enthusiastic helpers who turned up to support Fethard

Congratulations to Kelley Coady Cunniffe, The Valley, Fethard, working as an engineer in Galway, who received her Masters in Applied Science Enterprise Systems, at the University of Galway. Kelley is photographed above with her parents, Kevin and Margaret Coady, Fethard.

Late Heinz Gillessen, Fethard who died recently.

burial in the adjoining Cemetery. May he rest in peace.

News from the Community

New Inn

VILLAGE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SWITCH-ON

Join us for a heartwarming community celebration as we switch on the village Christmas tree lights at the Grotto this Friday, December 6th, at 6pm. This festive occasion marks the perfect start to Toy Show night and promises to be a delightful evening. Enjoy the enchanting performances by talented singers from our local primary schools, adding to the joyful atmosphere. We invite everyone to come along for a singalong and share in a moment of festive magic. Don’t miss this chance to kick off the holiday season together!

HOSPICE MORNING

Mark your calendars for this Saturday, December 7th, from 11am to 2pm at Barrons, New Inn. Enjoy a delightful flower demonstration from 12 noon to 2pm. Everyone is welcome to come and support this wonderful cause!

ST VINCENT DE PAUL

The annual St Vincent De Paul collection will take place this Sunday December 8 at both New Inn and Knockgraffon churches. The St Vincent de Paul (SVP) Ireland is part of an international Christian voluntary network dedicated to tackling poverty in all its forms by providing practical assistance to people in need. Founded in Ireland in 1844, it helps to foster diverse and inclusive connections, as a Society that is welcoming of people of all faiths and none. Your support would be greatly appreciated!

DANGAN GRAVEYARD

NOTICE

A recording of the headstones in Dangan graveyard is now available for viewing on the historic

graves’ website ‘www.historicgraves.com’. A website which allows visitors to search, and trace loved ones buried in graveyards across Ireland’.

25 CARD KNOCKGRAFFON

Joint Winners on Wednesday, 27th November with 10 games each were Paddy Freaney / Margaret Quinlan, Billy / Vincent Phelan and Cathy O’Gorman / Phil O’Connor.

Table prizes to Kitty Byrne / Bernie Farrell and Pat O’Rourke / Willie Crosse. Well done all. Cards start at 8.30pm sharp and all are welcome.

Tea and refreshment afterwards.

NEW INN VOICES PRESENTS CHRISTMAS IN SONG

Join us for a festive evening of music on December 14 at 7:30pm (doors open at 7pm) at Rockwell Chapel, Rockwell College. Tickets are €15 and can be purchased at Cashel Dental, Main Street, Cashel; The Shop, New Inn; or from choir members. This concert will support New Inn Voices and the Jack & Jill Foundation. We extend our gratitude to the Tipp County council Art Grant Scheme 2024 for their assistance. Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to celebrate the holiday season through song!

SEEDS OF HOPE

Returning Biodiversity to Our Parishes is a Laudato Si conference for the dioceses of Cashel & Emly, Kerry, Kilkaloe, and Limerick. In the face of ongoing environmental crises, this conference seeks to inspire parish communities to care more deeply for God’s creation. Join us on Saturday, 25 January 2025, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Springfort Hall, Mallow,

Cappawhite

SOCIETY OF ST VINCENT DE PAUL ANNUAL COLLECTION

The Society of St Vincent de Paul will hold their annul Christmas Collection outside the Church before Mass on Saturday next, 7th December 7 and again on Sunday, 8th December.

Names for Christmas hampers or anyone who needs help, please contact 061 317327.

OZANAM HOUSE

St Vincent de Paul – shop open each Tuesday 10 am to 12 noon and Thursday from 2 to 4pm.

MERCY TREE

An oak tree, a gift from the diocese, in the year of Mercy 2016 was planted in the garden at the back of the church in memory of Fr. Furlong after Mass on Sunday last.

ACTIVE RETIREMENT

Pilates will continue in the Community Centre on this Thursday, 5th December from11am to 12 noon. Fee €5.

Our Christmas Dinner will be

Co. Cork. To register, please email maria.murphy@trocaire.org. A suggested donation of €10 will be collected on the day. “Together, we can sow and nurture the seeds of hope”.

SANTA CLAUS IS COMING TO NEW INN

Santa is taking some time out from his hectic schedule to come to Ollie’s, New Inn on Sunday, 15th December from 4pm to 6pm. Meet Santa, a gift for each child, photo opportunity, story stelling, colouring & disco music. Child €5 each, No booking required. A great day is assured with plenty of Christmas cheer!

ROCKWELL ROVERS GAA

CLUB LOTTO DRAW

Numbers drawn - 1, 7, 9 ,11. NO WINNER(s). Lucky dips x4: - Camillus Croke, Emma Ryan, Liam Fahey, Pat Prendergast to be entered into November’s lucky dip draw with a chance to win €500. Sellers – Rockwell Rovers x 3, and Phil Ryan to be entered into November’s sellers draw with a chance to win €100.

This week’s jackpot is €6,200. Thank you for your continued support.

Congratulations to Martin Boland, New Inn, November €500 winner.

ROCKWELL ROVERS SENIOR AGM

The Senior AGM has changed date to Saturday, 7th December at 7pm at the Clubhouse. Nomination forms are now available. Please email the secretary secretary.rockwellrovers.tipperary@ gaa.ie for a nomination form.

All nomination forms to be returned by Friday 6th December at 7pm to the above email address or handed to Elaine Cummins.

held in the Community Centre on Sunday next, 8th December at 1pm. Cost €30 . Music by Colm Aungier.

Names in the next few days as we need to finalise numbers to Peggy Kennedy 087 6660956, Maria Carabine 087 6497524, Mary Anne McDermott 086 3223324 .

ACTIVE RETIREMENT

Our final Arts Crafts Class will be held in the Resource Centre on this Thursday, 5th December from 7 to 9 pm.

BINGO

Bingo continues every Friday night in the Community Centre.

Great prizes. All are welcome. Volunteers are badly needed , just a few hours once a month.

Your help would be greatly appreciated.

MULTEEN PLAYERS

Present the Chastitute by John B Keane on Dec 5,6,7,8 in Knockavilla Community Centre.

Tickets available in Cronins Centra, Heffernans Foodstore or

Oola

OOLA COMMUNITY ALERT

If you wish to join Oola Community Alert Please contact 087 6634547. Application forms can be collected and returned to Aidan Kenedy, Paddy Ryan, Denis Ryan or Donna Quinlan. you may also request a form via email from oolacommunityalert@gmail.com.

OOLA COMMUNITY CENTRE

Bingo every Tuesday Night @ 8pm all welcome Cards Progressive 45 Drive

Thursday Nights @ 8pm Sharp all welcome.

Results from November 28th 1st place,Dinny Morrissey, Ger Beary, Sharon Kavanagh, Mixie O’Dwyer 2Nd place, Davy Holmes,Tom Grant, Tom Ryan, Seamus O’Dwyer Table Prizes John & Dympna

Ryan

OOLA YOUTH CLUB

Oola Youth Club every Saturday Junior club up to 6th class 5pm - 6.30, Senior club 1st year

through Multeen Players facebook page.

FR FURLONG’S FIRST ANNIVERSARY MASS

A large crowd attended the first anniversary Mass celebrated for Fr. Furlong last week. Rest in Peace.

50 YEARS WED

Congratulations to Tom and Mary Ann O’Dwyer, Kilbeg who celebrated 50 years of wedded bliss on Saturday last. We all hope you will have many more!

CAPPA NATIONAL SCHOOL

A great week for everyone in Cappawhite National Schol as they won two county finals last week.

The first win of the week came from the u11 team who beat TwoMile-Borris, with the u13 team bringing home the second county title towards the end of the week after beating New Inn. Well done to all involved, the future is bright for Gaelic games in Cappawhite and district.

and above 6.45 to 8.15

If you have an interest in joining, please contact Donna at oolayouthclub@yahoo.com

OOLA ICA

Oola ICA monthly meetings are held on the 2nd Wednesday of each month at 7.00 pm in Oola Community Centre. If you would like to join, just come along and you will be made very welcome.

OOLA CHRISTMAS FAIR

Oola Christmas Fair will take place on Sunday, 8th December.

CHURCH GATE COLLECTION

The St Vincent de Paul national church gate collection will take place this coming weekend Saturday 7th & Sunday 8th December at all masses. Please support us in trying to make life a little easier for families and especially children this coming Christmas and winter.

We would like to thank most sincerely all those who supported our recent table quiz held in TJ Macs. We are doing our utmost to ensure those who need our help the most are receiving it.

If you need or indeed if you know someone who needs our help, please reach out to us. We can be contacted on 052 6123878.

TIDY TOWNS CHRISTMAS RAFFLE

Three beautiful hampers are on offer for Mullinahone tidy towns

Christmas fundraiser raffle. All hampers are on display in Bretts hardware store. Tickets are €2 per strip or €5 for 3 strips. Tickets are available from tidy towns committee members and all local businesses. The draw will take place on Saturday 21st December. All support greatly appreciated.

LOCAL LOTTO

Last weeks draw took place on Monday 25th November. The numbers drawn were 2,12,19,20. There was no winner of the lotto jackpot worth €4,75p. Two match 3 winners received €75 each. Congratulations to Brendan & Maura and Tom McCollam.

Tickets can be purchased from committee members and all local businesses.

SPLIT THE POT

The split the pot draw took place on Wednesday 27th November. Congratulations to Ellen

Walsh who won €140. Envelopes can be purchased in all local businesses.

DEVELOPMENT BINGO

The monthly development Christmas bingo will take place on Thursday 5th December at 8pm in the Gaa sports hall. €2,300 in prize money to be won on the night ! Full House €100, two lines €50, single line €30, bonus sheet €500.

U17 FOOTBALL COUNTY

SEMI-FINAL

Last Sunday 1st December

CJ Kickhams U17 footballers travelled to Killenaule to take on Gortnahoe/Glengoole in the U17B county semi-final. The Mullinahone lads came away with a big win and now look forward to a county final meeting with Moyne Templetuohy. Final score: Gortnahoe/Glengoole 1-4 Mullinahone 4-14

Sandra English

Mullinahone

Sinéad Moore

Donna Quinlan

Thurles Presentation Secondary School’s First year basketball team which played Thurles Ursulines last week.

Ena Ryan (B)

News from the Community

Kilsheelan/Kilcash

CHURCH NOTES

The Annual St. Vincent de Paul collection will take place next weekend December 7th/8th.

Your continued support would be appreciated. All funds collected will be used in our local Community. Buy a bow in memory of a loved one this Christmas, €5 or €10 per family, all donations will go to the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust.

Next Friday is the first Friday of the month and the usual visits to the sick and housebound will take place, if anyone wishes for a visit to a friend or relative please let me know or contact any member of the pastoral Council.

There will be a live crib in Glencomeragh House, Kilsheelan on Sunday 15th December between 3pm and 6pm, with Christmas carols, hot chocolate and a very special guest appearance from santander.

MASSES IN KILSHEELAN

Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament will take place in Kilsheelan on Friday morning at 9am before Mass. Thursday and Friday morning at 10am, Saturday evening at

6.00pm.

MASSES IN KILCASH

Wednesday evening at 7.30pm, Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament will take place before Mass. Sunday morning at 10am.

LINGAUN VALLEY TOURISM

TABLE QUIZ

The Lingaun Valley Tourism Group will hold a table quiz in preparation for the Knockroe Winter Solstice in Powers of Tullahought on Wednesday December 4th at 8pm. Table of four is €20, all are wewelcome.

KILSHEELAN/KILCASH GAA

Congratulations to our U21 hurlers who defeated Galtee Rovers in Fethard on Sunday last on a scoreline of 1.22 to 6pts they now face Boherlahan in the Co. Final.

Our centenary jersey is still available and would make a lovely Christmas gift for children and adults alike.

KILSHEELAN UNITED/ SLIEVENAMON CELTIC

TSDL Youths Division 2: Kilsheelan United 0-3 Shanbally United FC 50/50 Draw

Declan Geoghegan

This weeks winner was Lisa Ryan, well done Lisa on netting yourself €305 for Christmas.

Don’t forget to enter our fortnightly draw, guaranteed winner for each draw, next draw is December 13th which is the last draw before Christmas period.

SYMPATHIES

Deepest sympathies to the Hennebry family on the untimely passing of Gerry, he was a legend in the world of music and was for over 50 years on the road with Gina, Dale Haze and the Champions and cultivated many friends countrywide which was evident at his removal and funeral Mass accompanied by the wonderful music that he loved so much.

Gerry played a big part in the Kilsheelan Kilcash GAA club over the years as a player, mentor and administrator and had a very keen eye for talent at an early stage in developing players.

To his family Robert, Lisa and sister Breda and extended family we extend our deepest sympathies.

May his gentle soul rest in peace.

CLOGHEEN COMMUNITY PARTY - SUNDAY, 8th DECEMBER

BALLYLOOBY/CASTLE-

GRACE GAA

Result: 26/11/24: No Jackpot winner. No match three winner: Numbers drawn 2, 3, 11 and 14. Four lucky dips: Eimear Buggy, Anne-Marie Fitzgerald, Bridie & Joan Anglim & Pat Coffey. Next week’s jackpot €2,000 The club extend their thanks for your continued support. Tickets available at usual outlets & clubforce.com-Ballylooby/Castlegrace Gaa

SOCIETY OF ST VINCENT DE

PAUL ANNUAL COLLECTION

St Vincent de Paul Church Gate

Collection will take place this coming weekend, Saturday and Sunday, 7th and 8th December.

YOGA CLASSES

Yoga with Noelette in Duhill Hall on Thursdays at 7pm.

AGE STRONG

Age strong with Physio Joanne On Tuesdays at 6:45pm

GAEILGEOIRÍ NA DÚCHOIL-

LE - IRISH CLASSES

Irish speaking class will continue on this Friday, 6th December in Duhill Hall at 7:30pm. Suitable for all age groups.

BALLYLOOBY COMMUNITY

COUNCIL CRAFT FAIR & TRACTOR RUN

The above event will take place next Sunday, 8th December from 3 to 6pm. Tractor run will commence at 5pm sharp.

Well done to Ballylooby Community Council on a very enjoyable & successful Christmas Party that took place on Sunday last. SYMPATHY

Sympathy is extended to to the family, grandchildren, great-grandchildren nephews, nieces & extended family of Margaret Lonergan (nee Doyle) Cahir & late of Tubrid. Margaret was laid to rest in Duhill Cemetery after her requiem mass in St Mary’s Church, Cahir on Saturday last, 30th November.

The death occurred of Geraldine Dunne, Clogheen. We extend our sympathy to her family, grandchildren, relatives & friends. Geraldine was laid to rest in Ballysaggart, Co Waterford after her funeral mass in St Mary’s Clogheen on Monday Dec 2nd. May they rest in peace

GAA NEWS

Hard luck to Knockmealdown Gaels, who lost out to Moyne/ Templetouhy in the County Minor Football Semi Final on Sunday last in Golden. Final score: Moyne/Temple-

Ballymacarbry

touhy 2-9

Knockmealdown Gaels

0-9

SOUTH TIPPERARY U13

FOOTBALL TEAM

Well done to Ben Twomey, Donnacha Dunlea and Oisin Savage who were part of the South Tipp U13 Football Team who won the Inter-divisional Don Browne Football Trophy in Coolmore Dr Morris Park last Monday night

HONOURING FORMER TEAMS

Ballylooby/Castlegrace GAA

honouring winning teams from 25 and 50 years ago

Ballylooby/Castlegrace GAA

will be hosting a Social on 30th December in Cahir House Hotel, honouring winning teams from 25 & 50 years ago. It promises to be a night of music, dance and a chance to catch up with members and friends.

Tickets must be purchased in advance from any Committee Member

Congratulations to Enda Kendrick and Aisling, who celebrated their wedding last Friday. Enda is a great Club stalwart both on and off the field.

We wish them both every happiness for the future

Ballymacarbry Community Centre

CHRISTMAS FUN AT THE CENTRE

We are delighted to announce that Ballymacarbry Community Centre will be holding a festive family fun day for the community on Sunday December 15th from 2-5pm. Kids will have access to bouncy castles in our astroturf along with plenty of festive games and treats throughout the afternoon. There will also be a special visit from Santa on the day. Entry will be free so please mark the event in your social calendar and make sure you get to centre to get in the Christmas spirit! Keep an eye on our social media for more in the coming weeks!

BALLYMACARBRY LADIES

FOOTBALL KIDS DISCO & CLUB AWARDS NIGHT

This Friday night (Dec 6th) the centre will play host to Ballymacarbry ladies football club

kids disco and awards nights. The event kicks off at 6.30pm with a disco for club members (U12 to U6).

The disco will be followed by an awards ceremony from 7.30pm.

Organisers promise that everyone will be home in time for the toy show!

Please go along and show your support to the many successful teams that collected silverware throughout the year.

NEWCASTLE CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR

Our friends in Newcastle First Responders are holding a Christmas Craft Fair this coming Sunday (Dec 8th) in Newcastle Community Hall. There will be indoor and outdoor stalls, Bean Box coffee truck, face painting and much more.

Santa might also call by, so make sure to support this fundraising event – all proceeds to Newcastle First Responders which all will agree is a wonderful cause.

DO IT FOR DECLAN TRAC-

TOR RUN

Over the festive period make sure you pencil in the Do It For Declan tractor run taking place on Sunday, 29th December Dec in Newcastle. Registration will take place in the community centre from 11am. Please support this great cause.

BOOKINGS FOR THE CEN-

TRE

There are still a few Astroturf slots available each week, so if anyone wishes to make a booking, please contact us on the community centre mobile (086 032 8467) to make arrangements.

Our local fitness expert Stephanie Byrne continues to run her weekly fitness classes each Tuesday evening at 7pm and bright and early each Thursday morning from 6.30am. Contact Stephanie on 087 629 1955 if you would like to get involved in this ever-popular class. Tuesday Badminton continues. Contact Siobhan on 086 8775670 if you would like to get involved.

Eamon Wall

The Ballymacarbry Community Centre Astro Turf is a hive of activity at present. Our local U6s recently took on Brickey Rangers from Dungarvan with great skills on show from both sides. The future is bright!

Ballylooby/Duhill

Kathleen Moloney

News from the Community

Drangan/Cloneen

DRANGAN TIDY TOWNS

DATE FOR THE DIARY

Drangan Tidy Towns will hold our Christmas Flower Demonstration on Thursday, 12th December in Drangan Community Hall at 7.30pm. We will also have a raffle for a Hamper on the night. More details to follow later. It was again wonderful to achieve an extra 8 marks this year and to read some lovely comments on how well our village was presented on the day of judging. Well done to the volunteers who helped to make this possible and to all who helped in our recent clean-up day.

Hoping to see you all on Thursday, 12th December.

SQUASH CLUB

Cloneen Squash Club Squash season is open and welcoming all players. Whether just playing for fun, wishing to improve fitness or interested in playing a competitive sport. All levels of fitness are catered for with fun ladders/leagues to get folks playing.

Box league in progress to get players out playing and having fun. This ensures members get to play against players of similar abilities.

Find out more at facebook. com/CloneenSquashClub. Membership details are available on www.cloneenhall.com ‘Join the Squash Club

SCHOOL ENROLMENT

St Patrick’s Junior N.S Drangan are now accepting applications for September 2025. Enrolment packs are available from Drangan Playschool and the school office. Please email office@dranganns.ie or phone 052-9152278.

ST. PATRICK’S NATIONAL SCHOOL NATIVITY SHOW

St. Patrick’ National School, Drangan will present a Nativity Show in The Church of the Immaculate Conception Drangan on Thursday, 12th December at 7 pm. All are welcome but come early to be sure of a seat.

ST PATRICK’S GAA CLUB LOTTO

Results GAA Lotto results Tuesday November 19 Numbers Drawn were 2, 12, 14, 23. No jackpot winner.

One match 3 winner was Pat & Tina O’Dwyer, Clonyhea, Drangan who won €100. Congrats.

Second Chance lotto for €1,000, numbers drawn were 5, 11, 14, 15. No winners.

Next draw will be on Tuesday, 17th December for jackpot of €12,800.

Don’t miss out, play online or in your local shops, pubs, garages or hairdressers and it could be you WELL DONE RHYS, MIKEY & ROBBIE

Well done to Rhys Davies, Mikey O’Brien and Robbie

Gortnahoe/Glengoole

EUCHARISTIC ADORATION

Glengoole Wednesday 10am to 2pm, Gortnahoe Thursday 10am to 1pm. The rosary is recited before Mass in Glengoole every Saturday evening.

CHURCH GATE COLLECTION

The annual church gate collection for Saint Vincent de Paul will be held this weekend 7th & 8th of December. All donations will be gratefully received.

12 CRIBS OF CHRISTMAS Pobal Eile Youth Ministry Group invites you to join us on our crib tour leaving Bohernanave Church on Sunday 15th December at 5.30pm. Tour includes cribs in our area, fun and games and McDonalds in Cashel.

Open to teenagers from the parishes of Pobal Eile Parish Combination which includes the parishes of Thurles, Moyne/Templetuohy, Moycarkey/Two-MileBorris/Littleton and Gortnahoe Glengoole.

To book contact Olivia McCormack on 087-1273273 by this Friday evening.

SACRAMENTAL DATES

The dates have been announced for the following sacraments in

the parish. Confirmation will take place on Friday 28th February at 11am and First Holy Communion will be held on Saturday 17th May at 11am.

GORTNAHOE COMMUNITY HALL CHRISTMAS DRAW

Gortnahoe Community Hall are holding their Christmas draw on Sunday 22nd December in Gortnahoe Hall.

Further details of prizes and the distribution of tickets will follow in the coming weeks. The Christmas Draw is an important fundraiser for the upkeep of the Community Hall

GORTNAHOE BINGO

Bingo continues this Saturday evening at 4.00pm with doors opening from 3.00pm and will continue each Saturday evening at the same time. Over €2,660 in prize money on offer including a special €500 game.

A sincere thanks to everyone who supported the Black Saturday special bingo last weekend.

TUESDAY BRIDGE

Bridge is being played each Tuesday night in Gortnahoe Hall at 7.30pm. If you would like to join or find out more information please contact this number 089

O’Brien who were members of the South Tipperary under 13 footballers victorious over Mid Tipperary in the Final of the Dom Browne Inter Divisional Cup.

COUNTY UNDER 21 B FOOTBALL SEM-FINAL

Our U21 Footballers will play Eire Óg/Sean Treacys in the County Semi Final on this Sunday, 8th December in Ardfinnan at 1.30pm.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETINGS AND MASS

The Annual General Meeting of St. Patrick’s Senior GAA Club will be held at 8 pm on this Friday, 6th December in the clubrooms at Anner Park Cloneen. We ask all players and members to attend as we prepare for 2025 and also discuss potential developments within the club.

The meeting will be preceded by the Annual Mass for deceased members of the GAA in The Church of the Immaculate Conception Drangan at 7.30pm on the same evening, Friday, 6th December.

The Annual General Meeting of St. Patricks Juvenile GAA Club will be held in the club rooms at Anner Park Cloneen on Friday week, 13th December at 8pm.

We encourage parents of juvenile players to come along and discuss the coming season for your boys.

MONARD NS -

HISTORY MAKERS

Monard National School who made history in winning a first-ever county football title when defeating Ballyclough of North Tipperary in the recent Under 11 decider.

Back row: Carlos Rea, Christopher Hayes, Cameron O’Hora, Robert O’Grady, Phillip O’Doherty. Jack Sullivan, Oisin Hennessey, Nicole Ryan O’Brien.

Front row: Tommy Kavanagh , Jamie Myers, Sophie Gaynor and Caitlin Lewis.

4349106

SPLIT THE POT

Congratulations to Mairead Dunne, Graigue who won €210 in the Split the Pot draw last Sunday. Envelopes are available in Cahill’s Gortnahoe, Hogans Grange and at the usual outlets, you can also Revolut to 0876777220.

For the month of December

Split the Pot will be in support of the Gortnahoe Christmas lights. The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall. Your support would be appreciated.

Tuesday night cards at Monroe

The following are the results of the card game played on Tuesday night, 26th November at Monroe. 56 players 1st on 12 games Chas Keane & Sean Condon. 2nd on 11games Patsy Hartigan & Joe O’Brien.

Table Prize Jim Phelan & Willie Carney.

Game every Tuesday night in Monroe at 8.30pm. all welcome.

ACE OF HEARTS DRAW

The €2000 Jackpot for Monday, November 25, was not won while the following took the runners-up prizes, €50 to Davy Ryan Sologhead.

Four €25 spot prize winners Teresa Dee Seskin, Joe Sullivan Online, Nell Fitzgerald Oola and Anne Hadnett Online.

The seller’s prize went to Toomeys shop and the Jackpot for last Monday night, December 2, increased to €2100.

SOLOGHEAD LGFA

Sologhead Ladies Gaelic Football Association held their first AGM on Thursday, November 28, in Monard Community Hall following their establishment of the Club in April 2024.

The club reflected on a wonderful first year with a larger than expected cohort of girls and adults joining from underage level to the Mothers and Others group.

During the year the club played a number of blitzes at home and away and it was great to see so many young girls enjoying themselves coming to the field every Thursday evening for training.

A further club meeting will be held in February next to discuss coaching details and a return to

training date for the coming year.

The club extends a sincere thanks to all our players, coaches, parents and neighbouring clubs who made our first year such a huge success.

Officers elected for 2025 include Louise O’Grady who was appointed Chairperson, Caitriona Redfern as Secretary, Kevin Hanly as PRO and Nicholas Lonergan was appointed Treasurer.

MONARD NS

Congratulations this week goes to the boys and girls of the Monard NS U11 Football side who last week won their first ever County title when defeating Ballyclough National School who hail from the Silvermines area in North Tipp.

Well done to all the players, teachers and parents on a super achievement in making it all possible.

SENIOR CITIZENS

The Sologhead Senior Citizens Christmas party will take place in Monard Community Hall this Sunday, December 8, commencing with mass at 12.30pm.

An open invitation from the committee is extended to any Senior Citizens within the parish to come along and enjoy the festiv-

ities.

ST NICHOLAS FC

The winner of the 50/50 fundraiser and €206 for Wednesday night, November 27, was Thomas Flynn and the free Christmas Draw entry for €1000 went to Jason Buckley from Tipperary Town.

St. Nicholas’ wish to thank everyone for their continued support of their weekly fundraiser and are also presently promoting an all expenses prize winning trip to Anfield for a Liverpool v Manchester United Premier League tie. Tickets at €10 each can be had from Ger Riordan, Danny O’Dwyer or any member of the Club Committee.

On the playing front this Sunday, December 8, they will be hoping to keep their good recent unbeaten run of form intact when they take on Old Bridge in a TSDL Div 2 tie at Bohertrime, kick off is 2pm.

Originally fixed for Sunday, December 8, Kerry Kingpins Tralee Dynamos FC visit Bohertrime for a last 32 tie of the Munster Shield competition has now been rescheduled for Sunday, December 15, with a 2pm kick off.

Nicholas Moroney

Richard Dunne

Sologhead

Tommy Fitzgerald

News from the Community

Burncourt

COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS PARTY.

What a blessing it was to celebrate the lead up to Christmas with Burncourt’s Community Christmas Party last Sunday.As always, this was a great day in the community calendar. The Community Hall was decorated seasonly tastefully and superbly. The tireless volunteers gave of their time, positive energy and enthusiasm to embody the true spirit of the season. What an amazing team, with the newcomers and the old reliables working in harmony together. With guests enjoying a delicious meal, great company, music with Maurice, Ann and Bobby, dancing, singing, recitations and good cheer, it was simply wonderful.

BURNCOURT HOSPICE COMMITTEE FUNDRAISER

Burncourt Hospice Committee is delighted to once

again continue with their traditional main fundraiser in the local communities.

This will start with the Skeheenarinky 45 Drive Card Game on Friday December,27 in the Olde Shanbally at 3pm. Spot prizes appreciated. Contact Sean (086) 3984970. On Saturday, December 28, in Ryan’s Pub, the Hospice Auction Night will take place. Items and donations for this worthy cause are greatly appreciated. Please contact Tadgh (087) 6804390.

The New Year’s Day Walk on January,1 2024 will be held by Burncourt Hospice Committee together with the Rhododendron Walking Festival Committee. Come along to Glengarra Car Park at 10.30am for an 11am start. Refreshments afterwards in Burncourt Community Hall. All funds raised go to South Tipperary Hospice and The Hospice Suite at St. Theresa’s

Hospital, Clogheen. NEW BOOK, NEW CD

Bobby and Ann Gardiner have been busy again with a new CD and book.

The CD produced during Covid and Ann’s Book intriguely titled “Fallen Woman “are both available locally at Maureen Creed’s Shop and at the Post Office in Ballyporeen SYMPATHY

Our Sympathy to Christine Fitzgerald on the death of her twin sister Karon Walsh Senior. Our condolences to Karon’s family in England, her mother, children, brothers and all her family. May Karon Rest in Peace.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK.

“Continue to remind the people /that each is as good as the other/And that nobody is above or beyond you” Contiue - Maya Angelou

‘The Crew’ ready for action for the Burncourt Community Christmas Party on Sunday last

Fr. James , Tommy O’ Donnell, John Pyne, Alice O’ Donnell, Mary Pyne and Peggy at Sunday’s party. Mattie O’Brien , Mary O’ Brien, Cissie Barrett and Josie Fox enjoying the Christmas Party on Sunday last.

Nora Quirke (99 years) with Burncourt Local News correspondent Breeda Fitzgerald (back) and Trish Mulcahy

Ella Walsh and Ciara Fitzgerald with Mrs Claus ready for the Christmas Party in Burncourt on Sunday last.

Breeda Fitzgerald

TSDL sides humbled in FAI Junior Cup Peake Villa and Cahir Park exit competition

Villa made the long journey to Donegal for this cup tie and came out on the wrong side of the result.

Conditions for the game were good with the pitch in excellent condition but after losing 3-0 last weekend to St Michael’s, Villa seemed low in confidence and a slow start in Donegal certainly didn’t help their cause.

Villa were on the back foot from the start with the home side taking the game to them and the pressure paid off when they capitalised on an error in defence in the 12th minute and Lee McMonagle scored to make it 1-0.

Villa tried to get into the

Galka fires Town to victory in Youth League

game but were getting no joy trying to break down the Letterkenny defence.

The home side doubled their lead in the 41st minute when another mistake at the back saw Billy Banda score to make it 2-0 which was the score at half time.

Villa tried to get back into the game and came close through Pippy Carroll with his free kick hitting the outside of the post.

The home side made sure of their passage into the next round on the hour mark when a great run by Banda saw him cut inside and fire a great shot to the bottom corner to make it 3-0.

A brace of goals from Patrik Galka and a fine solo effort from Monsur ensured the victory.

Villa fought hard throughout but found the Town defence difficult to break down.

They did breach the defence on one occasion but it wasn’t enough to prevent Town from claiming all three points.

Cahir Park bowed out of this year’s FAI Junior Cup to Limerick side Janesboro. Despite being level at half time, Cahir found themselves behind early in the second half when Aodh ÓHanluain found space to prod his side in front. Cahir were quick to respond to the setback however and were level four minutes later when Ryan St John found the Janesboro net.

With the tie now in the balance, it was Janesboro who proved more clinical and Kai Joyce fired them back in front as the game entered its final quarter.

As Cahir went in search of an equaliser, they left themselves vulnerable at the back and veteran forward Shane Clarke exploited that vulnerability in the 86th minute to wrap up the tie when he was on hand to add a third goal for Janesboro. Despite the setback, Cahir continued in search of a way back into the tie but were unable to break down a stubborn Janesboro back four.

A disappointing day for Cahir Park who will feel that they never found their true form on this occasion but it’s another lesson learned for their younger players. Action from Kilsheelan Utd and St

St Michael’s got the better of Cashel at a wet and windy complex on Saturday afternoon.

It was an even opening period until the 24th minute when Alfie O’Halloran made space and fired home a right foot shot after good

work by Davy Hogan and Darragh Kelly. O’Halloran made it 2-0 on 31 minutes when his right foot shot from an angle beat Ben Hennessy at his near post. Saints held this lead to the break and were good value for it.

Substitute Alex Rikits found Conor Whiston on 48 minutes and his shot saw Fitzgerald save to his right post for a corner. A

minute later a poor goal kick saw Whiston hit a left foot shot that Fitzgerald touched on to the bar. At the other end Alfie O’Halloran saw his shot saved by the feet of Ben Hennessy. Cashel came on strong over the last half hour and pulled a goal back with 15 minutes left and Saints had to dig deep but just held out for another valuable win.

Shanbally good value for victory

Not a great day for Kilsheelan youths as they went down 3 nil to Shanbally United in a very wet

Played in heavy conditions the home side started slowly and on 15 minutes conceded a penalty which was brilliantly saved by Conor Grant but from the resulting corner Saints took the lead when Jamie Malone headed brilliantly in to the top corner. Despite numerous chances a combination of poor finishing and excellent

bottom corner. On 60 minutes Nathan Dolan made it 3-1 from almost halfway spotting the keeper off his line to finish superbly. Ben Smith made it four on 82 when he broke through and rounded the keeper. In the 90th minute Smith wrapped up the scoring finishing a simple chance from inside the six yard box. Smith on the double as Kilsheelan hit Saints for five

goalkeeping meant saints went in 1-0 up at half time. The home team were a different team in the second half and were level on 52 minutes when a Saints defender headed into his own net. On 57 minutes they went 2-1 up when Brandon Cagney played a superb ball to Shane Garland who turned and finished to the

and windy Ormond Stores. The home side started with a strong breeze behind them and almost immediately took the lead when Darren Kirwan got through on goal, but his shot from close range was batted away. Further efforts from distance from Tristan O’Connor and Gus Nolan again found the Shanbally goalkeeper on top form as anything thrown at him he was equal to it. Then, a breakaway move down the left was smartly finished by Ruairi O’Callaghan. It looked like Kilsheelan had gotten a well-deserved equaliser 10 minutes before the break only for the away keeper to show more heroics with two players baring down on goal but they couldn’t get the ball over the line. Kilsheelan were to suffer more damage when a nice move from Shanbally saw O’Callaghan round Alec Knightly to tuck away his and Shanbally’s second almost on the half-time whistle.

It was game over early in the second half when from a Jack Sullivan corner, the ball sailed straight into the Kilsheelan net. Shanbally were able to see out the rest of the game comfortably to take away a 3 nil win.

Michael’s B

Clonmel Town returned to winning ways with a hardfought victory over Peake Villa.

TS&DL SOCCER SCENE

Cotter heroics help Cahir secure vital win

TSDL

(B)

Cahir played Latin Cullen in Duneske in bad conditions.

Cahir got off to a good start with an early goal from Liam Cleary where he dribbled up the endline past the fullback to smash it past the keeper. Latin Cullen kept attacking putting the pressure on Cahir Park when a bad clearance from the box landed in front of their midfielder to volley it into the back of the net to make it 1-1.

A couple of minutes later Latin Cullen won a penalty after a late challenge. Evan Cotter pulled off an amazing save, stopping the ball going into the bottom right corner.

Cahir Park attacked again with David Halpin crossing the ball into the box and John O’Regan tapped it in for an easy finish to put Cahir 2-1 up at half time. Early in the second half John O’Regan ran down the sideline getting past two players before placing the ball with ease past the goalkeeper to put Cahir two goals ahead. After 15 minutes

FIXTURES

Fixtures for Saturday the 07th of December and Sunday the 08th of December and Sunday the 15th of December 2024

• St Michaels V Aisling Annacotty (Limerick) 7.00pm, J Lyons, M Freiberg, J Maguire

Division 3 Saturday 7.00pm 07-12-24

• Cahir Park (B) V Rosegreen, 7.15pm, B O Donoghue

Mullinahone was the venue on Saturday for an absorbing game of football between Mullinahone and Galbally United. Mullinahone started well and found themselves in the lead thanks to a brilliant corner by Philip Dunne which found Adam Houlihan who clinically headered it home at the near post. However, Galbally found their footing after this and began controlling a lot of possession in their opponent’s half. This was rewarded with a goal of their own from a corner well headed home by William Fitzgerald to bring

the teams in level at half time. The second half continued similar to the first with both teams evenly matched and both getting chances. It was Galbally who struck first this half hitting on the counter with Killian Peters slotting it past the Mullinahone keeper. This seemed to spur on Mullinahone who scored from the very next attack with Tom Lee slotting it into the top corner. Mullinahone didn’t look back from here and started getting the ball forward a lot more. They were rewarded when Alex Britton found the net with a wonderful strike from outside the net. With Galbally now chasing an equaliser Mullinahone took advantage with

Latin Cullen won a corner, it was whipped in and Cahir stuggled to clear it before their player smashed it into the back of the net, 3-2. Just five minutes later Liam Cleary crossed the ball high into the box where David Halpin flicked it on with a header over the keeper into the side netting making it 4-2. A few minutes later Latin Cullen won a freekick which was placed in the top corner if it wasn’t for Evan Cotter to get a hand to it and make a brilliant save. Both teams had good chances but couldn’t convert and the game finished 4-2 to Cahir.

Phillip Dunne slotting home a penalty after he was brought down in the box. Mullinahone added a fifth near the death when Adam Houlihan drove a free across the six-yard box, to which Mike O’Dwyer got the all-important touch, finalising a hard fought 5-2 result for the home team.

Credit has to go to both teams who played a very physical but fair and entertaining game in very tough stormy conditions. A special mention must also go to the referee who did a great job controlling the game. Galbally face Cashel away next as Mullinahone face Cahir in what is a top of the table clash.

FAI Youth Cup Round 3 Saturday 07-12-24

Clonmel Town V Knocknacarra, 2.00pm, M Corrigan, J Lyons, , M Chapman

Munster Youth Cup 4th Round Saturday 07-12-24

• Cahir Park V Clonmel Celtic 2.00pm, P Keane, M Duffy, J Maguire

Youth Div 2 Saturday 07-12-24

• Cahir Park (B) V Mullinahone, 11.30am, M Haide

• Cullen Lattin V SC&K United, 2.00pm, M Jordan

• St Michaels V Shanbally, 2.00pm, A Butler

Munster Junior Cup 4th Round Saturday 7.00pm 07-12-24

RESULTS

Saturday the 30th of November and Sunday the 01st of December 2024 Munster Youth Cup 4th Round Saturday 30-11-24

Cahir Park V Clonmel Celtic Abandoned due to Injury after 20 minutes

Youth Div 1 Saturday 30-11-24

Clonmel Town 3-1 Peake Villa

Muster Junior Cup RD 4 Sunday 08-12-24

• Peake Villa V Killarney Celtic (Kerry) 2pm, M Duffy, M Chapman, J Maguire

• Clonmel Celtic V Bridge UTD (Clare) 2pm, P Keane, J Lyons, M Jordan

Munster Junior Shield

• Summerville (Limerick) V Clonmel Celtic (B) 2pm (Time TBC)

Premier League Sunday 08-12-24

• Cahir Park V Bansha Celtic, 11.00am J Maguire

• Two Mile Borris V Clonmel Town, 11.00am, M Chapman

Division 1 Sunday 08-12-24

• Tipperary Town V Two Mile Borris (B), 11.00am, M Haide

• Vee Rovers V Cullen Lattin, 2.00pm, M Freiberg

• Powerstown V Peake Villa (B), 11.00am, M Jordan

Division 2 Sunday 08-12-24

• St Nicholas V Oldbridge, 2.00pm, A Butler

• Ballingarry V SC&K United, 11.00am, M Corrigan

Division 3 Sunday 08-12-24

• Dualla V Mullinahone, 11.00am, G Ward

• Tipperary Town (B) V Donohill & District, 2.00pm, B O Donoghue

• Burncourt V SC&K United, 2.00pm, N Coughlan Fixtures for Sunday the 15th of December 2024 Munster Junior Shield 4th Round Sunday 15-12-24

• SC&K United V Bridge United (Clare)

• St Nicholas V Tralee Dynamos (Kerry)

The home side began the brighter playing some nice football but found themselves behind on 15 minutes when a long throw in was flicked on at the near post and Gus Brown reacted quickest to get his head to the ball from close range and turn it home to give Moyglass a 1-0 lead. The away side quickly doubled their lead five minutes later when some poor play in the Albion defence led to Moyglass winning the ball

on the edge of the box and Niall Doocey produced a lovely floated finish into the far corner of the net from 20 yards out. Ballingarry responded well and put some good attacks together the best of which fell to Patrick Ivors but his effort flashed just wide of the post. Moyglass then added a third just before half time against the run of play when a corner kick was delivered well into the box and found the head of Niall Doocey for him to grab his second.

With a steep task in front of Ballingarry they began very well again controlling the ball but

couldnt find a way past a very well organised Moyglass defence. Stephen Holohan went close on 57 minutes before Michael Ivors very nearly pulled a goal back but for a good save by the keeper. Dylan Meagher was next to go close striking the crossbar from distance with 10 minutes to go. With the home side pouring bodies forward to try grab a goal they left themselves very exposed at the back, and were made to pay when a long kick forward was tracked down by Jack Healy and he rounded the keeper to grab Moyglass’ fourth of the game.

Youth Div 2 Saturday 30-11-24

St Michaels 2-1 Cashel Town

Cahir Park (B) 4-2 Cullen Lattin

SC&K United 0-3 Shanbally

Mullinahone 5-2 Galbally

Premier League Saturday 3011-24

St Michaels V Bansha Celtic OFF

FAI Junior Cup Sunday 01-1224

Janesboro (Limerick) 3-1 Cahir Park

Letterkenny Rangers (Donegal) 3-0 Peake Villa

Division 1 Sunday 01-12-24

Wilderness Rovers V Powerstown, OFF

Ballingarry 0-4 Moyglass

Suirside V Oldbridge, OFF

SC&K United 5-1 St Michaels

Division 3 Sunday 01-12-24

Clonmel Celtic (B) V Tipperary Town (B), OFF

Donohill & District 0-2 Rosegreen

Dualla V Killenaule OFF

Burncourt V Mullinahone OFF

In a tightly contested league match the visitors Rosegreen emerged victorious with a 2-0 scoreline. The match saw Donohill struggle to convert their chances while Rosegreen capitalised on defensive errors. The first half saw Rosegreen take the lead in the 25th minute through a penalty, awarded after a handball in the box. The spot-kick was confidently

converted by Rory Heffernan putting Donohill on the back foot early in the match. Despite their efforts to respond, Donohill struggled to break down Rosegreen’s organised defence, and the first half concluded with the score at 1-0. As the second half commenced, Donohill sought to regain control, but their hopes were dashed in the 56th minute when a defensive mistake allowed TJ Ryan of Rosegreen to double their lead. The error proved costly, leaving Donohill with a mountain to climb. In an attempt to shift the

momentum, Donohill made a double substitution in the 60th minute. As the match progressed, Donohill continued to push for a goal, but their efforts were thwarted by a resolute Rosegreen defence. In the 67th minute, another substitution saw Alan Shanahan replace William Barry, as Donohill sought to find a spark in their attack. Despite their best efforts, Donohill could not find a way past the Rosegreen defence, and the match ended with a disappointing 2-0 defeat for the home side.

Youth Div 2

Two Mile Borris (B) 2-1 Galbally Division 2 Sunday 01-12-24

Action from Kilshelan Utd against St Michael’s B.

the week in SPORT

Commercials cruise into county final with facile win over Arravale Rovers

FBD Insurance County Tipperary U21 ‘A’ Football Championship Semi-Final CLONMEL COMMERCIALS 2-11

ARRAVALE ROVERS 0-4

Clonmel Commercials booked their place in this year’s County Under 21 ‘A’ Football Championship decider with a comfortable 13 points victory over Arravale Rovers at Ardfinnan on Sunday afternoon last. Two first half goals within a minute of each other, scored by Peter McGarry and Cian Smith, had the South champions all of ten points clear after only 19 minutes, and thereafter there was only going to be one winner.

After wins in their divisional finals the previous weekend, Commercials over Fethard, and Arravale Rovers against Galtee Rovers, there were genuine expectations among patrons of a competitive semi-final between the South and West champions.

However, once Commercials found their kicking boots - having missed with four wides inside the first seven minutes - they pulled away easily from their opponents.

Three points in quick succes-

sion between the eighth and 11th minutes from Peter McGarry, Cian Smith (free) and McGarry again indicated the reigning county champions were going about defending their crown in the right manner. Declan Nee, in a roaming role, played a part in the making of both McGarry points, both well taken, off left and right, by the Commercials centre-forward.

In between these, Billy Tierney won a free with a determined run through the middle, easily tapped over by captain Cian Smith, his first of five frees over the hour.

Peter McGarry, proving a real thorn in the Arravale Rovers defence in the early stages, was also involved in his side’s next score.

Niall Deely and himself combined with a couple of one-two’s to thread through the Rovers defence, before Deely fisted a point to make it 0-4 to 0-0 after 16 minutes.

The signs were ominous even at

this early stage for the Westerners with Commercials’ midfielders

Ross Slattery and Joe Higgins having much the better of it around the centre, even if Evan Ryan was also fielding superbly for Rovers.

The game’s first goal arrived on 18 minutes and was well constructed by a Clonmel side growing in confidence as they gained the measure of their opponents. A move, which began with a well-executed low delivery by Darragh O’Connor, fed Niall Deely who in turn found Peter McGarry coming through at pace. Still with some work to do, the Commercials No. 11 soloed on before rifling a rocket to the roof of the net past Marcus Kinane. And within a minute it went from bad to disastrous for Arravale Rovers when they conceded a second goal. Once again Darragh O’Connor was the instigator with a delivery into the danger zone where Cian Smith managed to get free of his marker before finishing the ball to the corner of the net off the ground. Suddenly Commercials were ten points clear, and full value for it.

Eventually Arravale Rovers got

ABOVE: Commercials’ midfielder Joe Higgins under pressure from Adam Ryan and Sean O’Mahony.

LEFT: Commercials’ full-back Mark Corcoran in full flight tracked by Adam Ryan.

on the scoreboard in the 22nd minute with a well-taken point in full flight from Sean Lewis, but it was token resistance as Danny Madigan’s side were now most definitely dominant all over.

Four unanswered white flags followed over the next five minutes for Commercials to extend their advantage to 13 points, 2-8 to 0-1 after 28 minutes. Three of those four points were frees, all converted by ciotóg Cian Smith, the other from play, a well-deserved score for centre-back Tadgh Sheehan after a powerful run up the middle of the park.

With the last kick of the first period, Orrin Jones tapped over a close-in free for Arravale Rovers to send the sides to the break at 2-8 to 0-2 in favour of Clonmel Commercials.

To their credit Arravale Rovers came out for the second half determined to make amends and even if they enjoyed the lion’s share of the early possession and territory they got no reward for it on the scoreboard. The nearest they came was a well put together move ten minutes in when Eoghan Lonergan, David Ryan and

Ciarán Kelly unlocked the Rovers defence but Sean Lewis’s low effort was well saved by Shane Ryan in the Commercials goal.

The first score of the second half arrived eventually in the 41st minute with a long range effort from the excellent Darragh O’Connor, quickly nullified by an Alex Webster point when the Arravale Rovers corner-forward swivelled around his marker before kicking a left-footed effort over.

At the three-quarters marker, the margin was unchanged since half-time, Commercials more than content with maintaining their 12 points lead.

Thirteen minutes from the end, an indication of the disappointment of the second half fare, the game’s final score from play arrived. It came from the boot of Commercials midfielder Joe Higgins from 30 metres out; no doubt the Southerners finding range easier when it wasn’t possible to work their way inside.

As the game faded towards its conclusion, both sides added another free each from Orrin Jones and Cian Smith, before, right on the button of 30 minutes, referee Derek O’Mahoney called a halt to the second half proceedings. Commercials were comfortably on their way to meet JK Bracken’s in the county final, the Templemore side having defeated Ballina, after extra-time, also on Sunday.

This performance was a no-nonsense get-the-job-done approach from Commercials who

once they had settled, quickly put space between themselves and Arravale Rovers.

The defensive unit was completely on top and limited Arravale to just two points from play over the hour with the likes of Tadgh Sheehan, Rory O’Dowd and hard-working Eoghan Walsh on top of their game. Around the middle Joe Higgins, Ross Slattery and Darragh O’Connor ruled, while in attack a lot went through Peter McGarry, ably assisted by Oisin Forristal, Niall Deely and Declan Nee. Cian Smith also took his goal well.

It was a disappointing display from the West Tipperary champions who had a bad day at the office, and their heads dropped somewhat after that double whammy of goals midway through the opening half. They did rally in the second half in terms of possession even if that industry wasn’t reflected on the scoreboard. Evan Ryan and Eoin Doocey were up against a powerful Commercials midfield and still enjoyed some good moments. Other noteworthy performances came from Sean Lewis, David Ryan, Orrin Jones, Micheál Lowry and John Paul Lohan.

SCORERS AND TEAMS

Clonmel Commercials: Shane Ryan, Eoghan Walsh, Mark Corcoran, Thomas Charles, Rory O’Dowd, Tadgh Sheehan (0-1), Billy Tierney, Ross Slattery, Joe Higgins (0-1), Oisin Forristal, Peter McGarry (1-2), Darragh O’Connor (0-1), Niall Deely (01), Cian Smith (capt., 1-5, 0-5F), Declan Nee.

Subs: Jamie O’Keeffe for Slattery (43 mins), Ruairí Leahy for Deely (44 mins), Darragh Landers for Nee (49 mins), Michael Connellan for Forristal (49 mins), Dean Cagney for McGarry (52 mins).

Arravale Rovers: Marcus Kinane, Raymond Kelly, Shane Maher, Sean Lewis (0-1), Adam Ryan, Micheál Lowry, David Ryan, Evan Ryan, Eoin Doocey, Sean O’Mahony, Eoghan Lonergan, Ciarán Kelly, Alex Webster (0-1), Orrin Jones (0-2F), Caleb Hickey.

Subs: John Paul Lohan for Hickey (38 mins), Shane Quigley for Webster (44 mins), Peter Ryan for Lewis (52 mins), Evan Carrie for Maher (53 mins), Odhrán O’Dwyer for O’Mahony (58 mins).

Referee: Derek O’Mahoney (Ardfinnan).

Clonmel Commercials’ wing-back Billy Tierney gets above his Arravale Rovers opponent to field the ball during Sunday’s county under 21 ‘A’ football championship semi-final between the sides at Ardfinnan.

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THE VIEW: €3 billion reasons why the GAA is invaluable to our society

By Noel Dundon

The GAA has achieved another first of its kind this week with the completion of a landmark comprehensive analysis of the economic impact of Gaelic games and a measurement of its social value and social return on investment.

We all know that the GAA is priceless, especially in local communities where it is at the very heart of the parish. However, this independent analysis of Gaelic games activity by international experts has found that the social value of Gaelic games is estimated to be worth at least €2.87 billion to Irish society. Just take that in -€2.7 billion - that would just about build a National Children’s Hospital---well, maybe not!!!

For every €1 invested in Gaelic games, the benefit returned to society is at least €2.30 and could be as much as €3.96, the thirteen month report which was commissioned by the GAA, LGFA and Camogie Association revealed - the report was undertaken by Sheffield Hallam University’s Sport Industry Research Group, who are pioneers in the economics of sport and sport’s wider social impacts. It was facilitated by colleagues in Manchester Metropolitan University and Ulster University also and carries

enormous weight.

Measuring the social value of something is not an easy task and that is why this particular study is eye-opening and revealing. Now, there is science behind the statement that the GAA is invaluable to local communities; now there is real credibility with the many claims of economic value - the Munster senior hurling final for instance was worth €3.2 million to Thurles and €4.5 million to Tipperary. Fact.

The study is based on the analysis of national, provincial, county and more than 500 club accounts from across Gaelic games. It established for the first time, the economic impact of Gaelic games activity across the 32 counties, and the social value of the work of more than 1,600 clubs which are led by volunteers - there are approximately 80 such clubs operating in The Premier County.

Analysis of the social value of Gaelic games activity estimates that an input, or spend, to produce Gaelic games of €1.244 billion, resulted in outcomes valued to Irish life worth €2.87 billion. This is made of of: €31.06 million for Health; €556.48 million for Subjective Wellbeing; €1.224 billion for Social Capital, and €1.056 billion for the replacement cost of volunteering.

Consumer spending on Gaelic games amounts to €377m, which equates to 7.8% of the sport industry - that’s a very sizeable spend for an amateur organisation. Then, Gross Value Added attributable to Gaelic games is €710 million which is 8.7% of the sport industry.

As far as employment goes, Gaelic Games accounts for 10,600 full time equivalent position -almost 10% of the sport industry. A reminder again that this is an amateur organisation.

Total economic activity attributable to Gaelic games is €1,619 million and the government receives €192.6 million in direct and indirect taxation from Gaelic games. That is something not to be sniffed at and should certainly quieten the naysayers who question why so much financial support goes in the direction of the Association for capital projects.

The GAA makes an enormous contribution to the Irish and global society - the impact of social investment has not been calculated for overseas activities. Just picture the number of emigrants who find themselves in various spots around the world and who end up seeking out the GAA club in order to help them to settle in. What an incredible service these clubs are doing for Irish folks.

King Cormacs hit a rock; Gunners are decommissioned

Cashel King Cormacs found themselves drowning under the weight of a fine Watergrasshill side in the Munster final as the Tipp champs’ fine season came to a close. They will be disappointed not to have added to their silverware haul, but can look back with great satisfaction and look forward with great optimism to their return to the top flight. Meanwhile, the Gunners of Waterford were decommissioned by the Rebels runner-up in a surprising result in the Munster CLub senior hurling final at FBD Semple Stadium. The Cork boys were good for the win too with a very energetic and committed performance which saw them give best in no quarter throughout the game.

Loughmore Castleiney prepare for the Munster senior football final next weekend as do Aherlow in the next grade - Dr Crokes and Austin Stacks await them in what will be stern tests of both Tipp champs. Good luck to them.

More from THE VIEW anon. Don‘t miss it.

Rowers brew up an Ergo storm in Limerick

Whilst Storm Bert had the country on high alert the weekend before last, rowers from all across the island and even some from the UK were brewing up a storm at the UL sports arena in Limerick.

Brendan Wall has perfected the art of coaching relay teams on the ergometer and our junior women of Kate Fogarty, Brid Fogarty, Millie Crean and Sofia Lenehan combined well to hold off the challenge of the Athlunkard and St. Michael’s teams.

Kate would score twice more on the day when winning the silver medal in the WJ14 2000m and the 500m.

Our senior women’s team of Clara Hogan, Chris Fanning, Hannah McMahon and Jurita Wall had a convincing win in their relay race which should come as no surprise as

Chris and Hannah were part of the team that won a silver medal at the world indoors in Prague last January. The other two members of the team, Clara Hogan and Jurita Wall, had wins in their own individual competitions. In fact Clara made a clean sweep in four disciplines.

Not to be outdone by the girls, the boys J14 relay team drew on all their reserves of strength to clinch the silver medal position.

In the womens J16 1000m Eimear Sweeny and Brid Fogarty were unlucky not to make the podium when they came home in 4th and 5th place. Millie Crean also went close to the medals when she finished 4th in the J15. Daniel McKenna braved the 2,000m twice in quick succession and he put in a fine time of 7’20”. Shaun Callaghan made his trip over from the UK worthwhile winning the mens 60-64 category while Paul Nugent came home in 3rd place with a time of 3’30”.

Our next competition will take place in Inniscarra Saturday, 7th December.

LEFT: Women TY3 winners of the 2,000 metres relay. At front - Kate Fogarty and Sofia Lenehan. At back - Brid and Millie Crean.

RIGHT: Edward Wall, Chris Kane, Conor Corbett and Dominykas Valuzis who finished second in their event.

MAIN PICTURE: Clara Hogan, Chris Fanning, Hannah McMahon and Jurita Wall won the women’s 2,000 m relayat the Provinces Indoor Rowing Championships in Limerick on Saturday last

Tipp Echo

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County Tipperary Golf & Country Club

Captain’s Dinner a huge success at Dundrum House Golf & Leasure Club:

The story of the night must be that Dundrum House proprietors Jaff & Winnieanna Leo kindly donated all the money collected from those in attendance at our Captain’s Dinner to the charity of choice of outgoing President Paddy Fitzgerald and incoming President Jenny Lawrence. It must also be said that the proprietors of Dundrum House Jeff & Winnieanna Leo have consistently supported the many charities that our Golf Club organise.

The night belongs to the Captains Daniel Kennedy & Mary O’Donnell.

Both Captains in their address paid tribute to all who helped them to have such a wonderful and successful year as Captains. The thanked their hardworking Committees, their families and all the people that work so hard to provide us golfers with such a wonderful facility that is Dundrum House and Leasure Centre is. They thanked Brien Webster and all his staff on the Golf Course and said their work is very much appreciated by the membership. They thanked our Golf Professionals Marian Riordan, Colin O’Gorman. They particularly noted the very welcoming atmosphere in the Golf Shop and in the Venue. The thanked all the staff in the Venue Clubhouse Restaurant under the management of Yvonne Heffernan for putting on such a wonderful dinner.

They especially noted the exquisite decorative work on the Venue Restaurant by Winnieanna Leo and her family with the help of the Venue Staff. It all looked superb, well done to all concerned. They paid very special tribute to the many sponsors who support our Golf Club on an ongoing basis, your support is very much appreciated.

Mary Lonergan got special mention for her work as Golf Secretary in the wonderful new Trackman Driving Range facility.

Lady Captain Mary O’Donnell thanked all the members of her hard-working committee. She thanked the officers of the Ladies Committee; Competition Secretary Caroline O’Dwyer, Treasurer Helena Ryan & her assistant Sheena Ryan, Secretary Judy Hayes, Handicap Secretary Frances Boyle assisted by Niamh Chadwick & Marie Graves. She complemented Niamh Chadwick who with Michael Slattery provide the weekly club notes. She thanked Michael Ryan for his work as MC.

She thanked the rest of her hard-working committee; Teresa Canny, Jacinta Coman & Carmel

Co Tipperary Golf & Country Club winners of the Club Doubles Competition receiving the club trophies and the Magner Cup at Dundrum House Golf & Leisure Centre. Left to right: Brian Slattery, Captain Daniel Kennedy, and Darren Hayes.

Lowth.

She thanked her family for all their help and support over the year. She wished her Vice Captain Marie Graves and Vice-Captain

Danny O’Dwyer the very best for 2025.

Captain Daniel Kennedy thanked the individual members of his committee for all their work. He noted the officers who

do such a fine job; Treasurer & MC at our prize giving each week, Michael Ryan, Competition Secretary Michael O’Grady Handicap Secretary Tony Corcoran, Liaison officer with course management

Brian Slattery. Oisin Slattery for his work with the Junior Golfers. He thanked Secretary Michael Slattery for his work, advice and support throughout the year.

He thanked Darren Hayes for giving him the opportunity to become Captain. He went on to say, it was such a pleasure to work with the Lady Captain Mary O’Donnell,

He wished the incoming Captains Marie Graves & Danny O’Dwyer the very best for 2025.

On the night the Lady Golfer of the year presentation was made to Sheena Ryan by Lady Captain Mary O’Donnell & Captain Danial Kennedy made the presentation to the men’s golfer of the year Kevin McCarthy. Well done to both excellent golfers.

The Slattery cup and plate for the Mixed Matchplay were presented by Michael Slattery to the winners Anne Grace & Brian Slattery and the Plate was presented

to Frances Boyle who was partnered by David Burke. Date for your diary Sunday December 15th is our annual greenkeepers revenge mixed scramble a fun day of golf and a lovely time to meet club members before the Christmas rush.

The Men’s AGM is Mon 2nd & the Ladies AGM is Saturday December 7th at 6 pm. The Ladies Christmas hamper competition can still be played until 15th December.

SENIORS GOLF:

The results of last week’s 11hole Scramble; in 1st place John Grogan, Gerry Maher, Peter Silke & Noel Gleason with 32. In 2nd place Tommy Moloney, Tony Farrell, Kevin Casey & Liam Ryan (Cashel) with 32.8.

The 9-hole Christmas Mixed Scramble will be on Tuesday Dec. 6th. It will be a shotgun start with Refreshments and presentation of prizes immediately afterwords.

Results

Competition Results for Week Ending: 1st December 24

Winter League Round 5 - 25th

November 24

Division 1 John Mahon (PH 6) - 22 pts

Division 2 Shane Dooley Cullinane (PH 11) - 18 pts c/b

15H S/F W/Ts - 30th November 1st Sean Donovan (PH 19) - 37 pts c/b

Tipperary Golf Carrick-on-Suir

LADIES GOLF

Results

Wednesday, November 13thChristmas Turkey competition

Winner: Brigid Spearman (33) 30 points

Runners-up: Catherine Power (23) 27 points. Katherine Morrissey (9) 27 points

Sunday, November 17thChristmas Hamper competition

Winner: Josie Dunne (20) 32 points

Runner-up: Kate Nicholson (25) 30 points

Wednesday, November 20thChristmasTurkey competition

Winner: Renagh Murphy (9) 31 points

Sunday, November 24th –Christmas Hamper competition

Winner: Joanne Horgan (7) 22 points

Runner-up: Josephine Finnan (12) 22points

Wednesday, November 27th –Club competition

Winner: Josie Dunne (18) 25

points

Sunday, December 1st- Club

2nd Dale Long (PH 20) - 37 pts Fixtures

Fixtures for week ending December 1st 2024

Mon to Sun – Winter League Round 6 Re-entry Mon to Sun – Ladies Christmas Hamper 9H Stableford Wed – Ladies 9H Stableford Sat & Sun – 15H Stableford White Tees Re-entry

competition

Winner: Josie Dunne (18) 26 points

Runner-up: Katherine Morrissey 98) 26 points

SANTA CLAUS VISITS TIP-

PERARY GOLF CLUB

Tipperary golf club was delighted to welcome Santa for his annual visit. This year he was accompanied by Mrs Claus, who helped him distribute a selection of lovely presents, a sure sign that all the children are behaving very well & are on the “nice list”

Santa made a grand entrance by golf buggy up through the golf course. The children waited excitedly and cheered loudly with anticipation, until he arrived.

The club house was packed with many families all dressed up in festive gear. Magical memories were made with photographss taken with Santa and Mrs Claus. They were assisted on a busy day by Chief Elf Lorla, who encouraged everyone to join in the festive fun as she broke into song. A great day was had by all.

At the County Tipperary Golf & Country Club Captains Dinner at the Venue Clubhouse Dundrum Captain Daniel Kennedy presents Lady Captain Mary O’Donnell with a beautiful Bouquet.

the week in SPORT

Co Tipperary Golf & Country Club winner of the Club Singles Competition receiving the Club Trophy and the Michael Buckley Cup from Captain Daniel Kennedy at Dundrum House Golf & Leasure Centre.

Thurles Golf Club Cahir Park

MEN’S NOTES

Results

14 Hole Singles StablefordSaturday 23rd and Sunday 24th

November

1st Johnny Doyle 37pts

2nd Richard Kenny 33pts

3rd John McBrearty 33pts

4th Conor Ryan 33pts

THURLES GOLF CLUB

LOTTO

Lotto Numbers Wednesday 27th November: 8, 18, 19, 25

No Jackpot Winner. No match 3’s. 2 x lucky dips – Michael O’Grady and Brian O’Connor €50 each.

This week’s jackpot will be €15,800.

You can now play our Lotto online on the Clubforce website as well as in the Clubhouse!

Draw will take place live on our Facebook page Wednesday afternoon.

Thank you for your continued support.

LADIES’ NOTES

Results

Sunday November 23rd - 14

Holes Singles S/F: 1st Margaret Corcoran (14) 30 pts

Upcoming Competitions

Tuesday December 3rd - 11

Holes Singles S/F Christmas Jumper Competition

9 Holes Singles S/F - December 8th

Dates for your Diary

Ladies AGM - December 6th at 8 pm. President’s and Captains’ Party - December 7th Vote of sympathy

We extend our deepest sympathy to Margaret and the O ‘Leary Family on the death of Kitty Craddock, Past Lady Captain of Thurles Golf Club.

Clonmel Golf Club

MENS NOTES

Kevin O’Donnell is new Vice-Captain

First and foremost, I am delighted to announce that Mr. Kevin O’Donnell has stepped forward to fill the position of Mens Vice Captain for 2025 and I look forward to working alongside him for the year.

Christmas Hamper

On the course, the Clonmel Plumbing Christmas Hamper is on-going and will reach its conclusion on Sunday 8th so there’s still plenty of time for everyone to get the minimum of two counting scores in.

Just a reminder that the club AGM is scheduled for Monday the 9th December at 7.30pm in the Clubhouse.

Fixtures

Clonmel Plumbing Christmas Hamper continues up to Sunday 8th December.

Results

We will be contacting the winners of the Laharts Skoda turkey vouchers this week and will be in the club on Saturday 8th December to issue them out to the lucky winners.

Club Annual General Meeting

The AGM of Clonmel Golf Club will take place on Monday 9th December in the Clubhouse at 7.30pm. Notices and Agenda have been issued to members and closing date for receipt of nominations and motions is Wednesday 4th December.

SENIORS GOLF

Next Event: Thursday 5th December (weather permitting) with draws from 10.00 am to 11.30am with Christmas Dinner that evening at 7pm in the Clubhouse. Please ensure you have ticked your name off the list in the All seniors most welcome.

CLUB LOTTO

Find the Golf Ball Draw

The latest draw took place on November 30th in the Clubhouse.

The name drawn was Grace Regan and her number was 34. Grace wasn’t a winner of the jackpot but still collects €20. Next weeks jackpot is €1020. Please support the draw.

Mens Results

14 Hole Open Singles 18th to 24th November 2024

1st, Michael Kelly (17) 31pts

12 Hole Open Singles 25th to 1st of December 2024

1st, Willie Morrissey (14) 29pts

2nd, Anthony Phelan (10) 28pts Save the date

The Cahir Park Golf Club Management Annual General Meeting will take place on Tuesday 17th December.

ROAD HURLING TOURNAMENT 2024: Date for the diary: 2024

Road Hurling Tournament on St. Stephen’s Day. Details to follow.

FIXTURE

Under 21 Football: County semi-final v St Pat’s, Drangan on Sunday, 08 December in Ardfinnan at 1.30pm.

INTER-DIVISIONAL REPS: Congratulations to Odhran Ryan who played for West Tipperary last Monday week beating North Tipperary in the Dom Browne Inter-Divisional

Kindly sponsored by Europlan Group

Lotto draw took place on Saturday 30th November with a Jackpot of €3,100.

Numbers drawn: 11-15-18-21. No Jackpot winner. Two matched-three winners: Betty Ryan and John & Elizabeth Joy.

Next Draw takes place on Saturday 30th November with a Jackpot of €3,200.

Tickets at €2 each and three for €5. Also available to purchase online, QR codes, Facebook.

Vouchers available for all kinds of gifts and presents. Quick Pick Lotto available.

Christmas Gifts - Club Vouchers

With Christmas fast approaching our thoughts go to the task of selecting gifts for those near and dear to us. This Christmas why not purchase some Club Vouchers for the golfers in your family. These can be used as payment against the Annual Subscription, green fees, Pro Shop -along with Lotto Vouchers and competition top ups. A valuable gift for the golf enthusiast – available from the office or Pro Shop. Come visit and see what is on offer or you can email us to get an online voucher – info@clonmelgolfclub.com

17 Month Offer - New members 2024/2025

This is a very attractive offer available for new members joining from now up to 31st March 2026. If you are considering joining a club, why not give us a call. Full details please contact Aine at the office on 052-6124050 or download an application form from our website www.clonmelgolfclub.com.

LADIES NOTES

Fixtures

Christmas Hamper The 12 Hole Christmas Hamper, kindly sponsored by Terence Kennedy,

Painting Contractor, will finish on Sunday 8th December. This competition can be played every day. (Combined best two scores to count). Weekly 12H Turkey Competition The 12 Hole weekly Turkey Competition can be played any day from Saturday to the following Friday (inclusive). This will finish on Wednesday 11th December. The Wednesday Turkey competition has changed to a draw format. Names to be submitted by Monday 12 noon. Draw will be made electronically and posted on What’s App. A Winter 12 Hole Ongoing will start on Saturday 14th December. Terms will issue nearer the date. Dates for your diary:

A fun 9 Hole Festive Scramble will be played on Wednesday 18th December. Club AGM will take place on Monday, December 9th, 2024, at 7.30pm in the Clubhouse.

Results

There was no turkey competition this week due to bad weather.

Ladies Junior Alliance Well done to Liz Barlow who came second and Mary Jo Kehoe who came fourth in the Junior Alliance in Faithlegg on Monday 25th November, Ladies Minor Alliance: Well done to Sinead Corbett who came 2nd and Helena Wade who came 6thi in the Minor Alliance in Callan on Monday 25th November. Reminder to everybody attending the Ladies Christmas Dinner – last date for payment is Wednesday 4th December. New Members Lessons Jack Ahearne, Club Professional, is offering golf lessons for beginner ladies. For more information on lessons, please contact Jack Ahearne at (052) 6124050 or jackahearne1golf@gmail.com.

Shield Final. Well done also to Alex Cronin and Hayden Keane who played for West Tipperary Under 14 footballers in an Inter-Divisional Tournament in Dr Morris Park in November.

EIRE OG LOTTO RESULTS: This week’s Lotto results for 26 November 2024.

Jackpot: €9,000. Numbers drawn were 1, 07, 13, 29. There were no winners.

2nd chance: €500. Numbers drawn were 4, 5, 21, 27. There were no winners.

3rd chance: €250. Numbers drawn were 9, 12, 20, 25. There were no winners.

Lucky Dip Winners:

Mary Ann Callinan (Online)- €50. Ken O’Connell c/o Crowe Meats- €30.

Bridget O’Dwyer c/o Ml. Moore - €30.

Sean Redican c/o D.J. Gleeson - €30. Cathal Ryan, Gortrush (Online)- €30.

Seller’s Prize: 1 x €30, Liam O’Dwyer, Newtown.

DUNDRUM AC

WATERFORD HALF MARATHON

The Waterford Half Marathon was held on Saturday, November 30th in Waterford City. Temperatures were very mild with strong wind in parts of the course.

We had 11 club athletes compete in the popular race over 21km.

First home for the club was Tom O’Connell 1:21:36. He was followed by Linda Grogan 1:26:50, Tish Ryan 1:31:18, Michael Ryan

1:31:50, Karen Coughlan 1:36:02, Mary Keane 1:41:22, Mairead Julian 1:48:41, Declan Hogan 1:54:16, Val Farrell 1:55:40, Paul Shanahan 2:08:22, Pat Hayes

2:12:46 and PJ Collins 2:27:32. Linda, Tish and Karen finished 4th Club Women’s Team.

NATIONAL NOVICE CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS

The National Novice Cross Country Championships were held on Sunday, December 1st in Tramore racecourse, Co Waterford.

We had one athlete compete. Jim Halley ran in the men’s race over 6km in 26:46.

NATIONAL UNEVEN AGE

European Senior Cross Country Championships - Sunday, 8th December

Tobin to fly the flag for Tipperary at European Cross Country C’ships

While it may be a distance of 1,150km from Trabzon to Dokumapark in Antalya, there will definitely be a sense of a return to where it all began for Clonmel AC’s Sean Tobin, when he competes for Ireland once again at the European Senior Cross Country Championships on Sunday next, 8th December in Türkiye .

Back in 2011, Sean donned the Irish singlet for the first time at the European Youth Olympics over 3,000m in Trabzon, finishing a superb 4th in a time of 8:29:91.

Notable contemporaries on that occasion included Sarah Lavin and Eddie Dunbar.

Fast forward 13 years to 2024 and Sean is still producing the goods and securing Irish selection, this time in the discipline which has arguably been his most

consistent over the years - Cross Country.

Previous finishes at European Senior level include 17th in Lisbon, 15th in Samorin and a terrific 10th in Tilburg, behind Filip Ingebrigtsen.

It has been an injury ravaged last few years for the Clonmel AC man, and it is a testament to his class and resilience that he has battled back to this level of competition.

Qualification was earned at the recent Irish Senior Cross Country Championships in County Fermanagh where Sean finished in a strong 5th place.

Highly respected amongst his fellow athletes nationwide, there won’t be a more popular figure on the “return flight” to Türkiye. Best of luck Sean.

JUVENILE CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS

The National Uneven Age Cross Country Championships were held on Sunday, December 1st in Tramore racecourse the same venue as the Munster equivalent. We had three juveniles in action. First off was Philip Croke in the Boys U11. Competing in his first All Ireland he had a great run to be 95th in a field of 185 and was 2nd scorer on the Tipperary team that finished 10th.

Albert Maher competing out of age in the Boys U15 ran a fine race to be 24th and just missed out by one place on the Munster team that won the gold medals. He led home the Tipperary team that finished 9th.

Ruby Maher also in her first All Ireland juvenile race had a fine run in the Girls U17 and no doubt will be back for more. No Tipperary team qualified in this age group. Well done to all three athletes competing at the top level. Next week we head for the last juvenile cross country race of 2024 when we go to Ennis for the Munster B. We

Dundrum AC’s U10 Boys at the Munster Juvenile Relay Cross Country Championships in Turnpike,  Two-Mile-Borris on Sunday week last.

Dundrum AC’s U14 Girls at the Munster Juvenile Relay Cross Country Championships in Turnpike, Two-Mile-Borris. on Sunday week last.

Sean Tobin on his last European Cross Country Championship appearance for Ireland in Lisbon in 2019

have 26 athletes entered.

Dundrum AC’s Tom O’Connell who ran the Waterford Half Marathon.  Dundrum AC’s Tish Ryan who ran the Waterford Half Marathon.

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Daniel Ryan Ellis wins National bronze medal

Tramore was the venue last Sunday for the National Novice Cross Country Championships where the underfoot conditions were mainly good on this undulating course. These Championships are always very competitive as every club vies for these coveted titles. The distance for the women’s race was 4k while the men ran 6k.

In the women’s race Laura Cooney of Clonmel AC ran a fantastic race when finishing a very close 4th in 15 mins 1 sec. Always well positioned throughout the race Laura was in the breakaway group of eight athletes going out on the 2nd lap. She maintained that strong pace especially over the final 500m, moving from 6th up to 4th place with a storming finish. his course is familiar to Laura as she won the Munster under 23 title here last month but this by far her most impressive performance to date and making her mark at Senior level.

Then we had Aoife Delargy of Nenagh Olympic also running well when finishing 17th in 15.54. We also had good performances from Sharon Cantwell Moyne AC 27th 16.11, Eileen McCullagh Moyne AC 40th 16.36, Louise Fogarty Moyne AC 43rd 16.42, Ruby Carroll Clonmel AC 71st 17.49, Sarah Whelan 84th 18.15, Lisa Quinlan Moyne AC 91st 18.29, Sareen Walsh Clonmel AC 92nd 18.33, Martina Ryan Thurles Crokes 104th 19.22, Deniece Touhy Thurles Crokes 105th 19.27, Joan Stakelum Thurles Crokes 116th 20.38 and Regi-

na Dorney Thurles Crokes 117th 20.52. The County team of Laura Cooney, Aoife Delargy, Sharon Cantwell and Eileen McCullagh finished a very good 4th in such a competitive race.

As regards competitiveness there were thirty-nine clubs competing in this event and it was great to see three clubs from the County having teams competing. Moyne were 7th, Clonmel 9th and Thurles Crokes 16th.

The Men’s race was also very competitive with fifty-seven clubs involved. Here Daniel Ryan Ellis of Nenagh Olympic AC ran a brilliant race. Always up close at the business end of the event and setting the pace, Daniel put in a great effort over the closing stages when winning the bronze medal in 19 mins 9 secs, fantastic perfor-

mance.

This performance spurred on the rest of the County athletes like Luke Purcell Nenagh Olympic AC 11th 19.33, Cian Hodgins Nenagh Olympic AC 37th 20.16, Caolon Curran Thurles Crokes 38th, Jamie Moloney Nenagh Olympic AC 42nd 20.23, Daragh O’Leary Thurles Crokes 45th 20.28, Thomas McCarthy Thurles Crokes 46th 20.31, Cathal Kennedy Thurles Crokes 48th 20.34, William Hughes Thurles Crokes 52nd 20.43, Conor Flaherty Clonmel AC 114th 22.16, Mark Corcoran Nenagh Olympic 127th 22.30, Denis McCullagh Thurles Crokes 157th 23.01 and Jim Halley Dundrum AC 206th 26.46.

Daniel had the distinction of leading his club team, Nenagh Olympic to win the silver medals,

a first for any Club in the County since Athletics Ireland was formed, fantastic achievement and congrats to all involved. The quartet was Daniel, Luke Purcell, Cian Hodgins and Jamie Moloney, a historic achievement. Thurles Crokes also performed very well with their team of Caolan Curran, Daragh O’Leary, Thomas McCarthy and Cathal Kennedy finishing a close 4th.

With two clubs from the County in the top four hopes were high that the County team would be on the podium, but alas no, finishing a very creditable 4th place.

SEAN TOBIN TO COMPETE AT EUROPEAN CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS.

Athletics Ireland confirmed a full 36 athletics team for the

Young Tipps compete in National Juvenile Cross Country Championships in Tramore

JUVENILE ATHLETICS

Last weekend, a large number of Tipperary athletes travelled to Tramore to take part in the second weekend of National Juvenile Cross Country Championships.

In the Girls U11 race, Tipperary had a county team competing. They were led home to a 9th place position by Annie Ely Moyne AC 37th. She was followed home by Meadhbh Hall Moyne AC 73rd, Meabh O’Donnell Dualla Ballytarsna Boherlahan 85th, Emer Dorney Thurles Crokes AC 94th, Orlaith Costigan Moyne AC 98th and Clodagh Walsh Nenagh Olympic AC 113th. Moyne AC also had a club team taking part in this age group where they finished in 12th position. The team was made up of Annie Ely, Meadhbh Hall, Orlaith Costigan and Poppy Shanahan 123rd. Tipperary also had a county team represented in the Boys U11 race. They team combined to finished in 10th place. Scoring members of the team were Billy Heaney Clonmel AC 53rd, Philip Croke Dundrum AC 96th, Cian Long Thurles Crokes AC 104th, Darragh Long Thurles Crokes AC 115th, George O’Brien Newport AC 121st and Archie Spillane Thurles Crokes AC 134th.

Tipperary’s next representation came in the Boys U13 race with another county team taking part. The Boys finished in 7th place, led home

by Fionn Aird Clonmel AC in a brilliant 29th position. The other members of the team were Brendan Judge Thurles Crokes AC 53rd, Evan Bourke Thurles Crokes AC 81st, Matthew Esmonde Moyne AC 84th and Harry Cahill Thurles Crokes AC 88th and Aaron Savage Newport AC 91st.

Neasa Moloney Mooreabbey Milers AC was the sole Tipperary representative in the Girls U15 race where she finished in 49th position.

The Boys U15 race once again contained a Tipperary team. The team finished in 9th position and consisted of Albert Maher Dundrum AC 24th, Liam Carroll Thurles Crokes AC 54th, James Long Newport AC 62nd, Sean Sheehan Moycarkey Coolcroo AC 108th, Aaron Byrne Dualla Ballytarsna Boherlahan AC 118th and JD Treacy Thurles Crokes AC 133rd.

Alana Spillane represented Tipperary in the Girls U17 race. Alana put in a great performance to finish in 31st position and secure a place on the Munster team who won the silver medals in the Inter-Provincial competition.

Kevin Finn was Tipperary’s sole competitor in the Boys U17 race where he finished in 35th position.

In the Boys U19 race, Tipperary were represented by Diarmuid Moloney 16th and Ben Walshe 60th, both from Nenagh Olympic.

Well done to everyone who competed on Sunday. This competition brings the National Juvenile Cross Country Season to a close.

upcoming Spar European Cross Country Championships in Antalya, Turkey on Sunday 8th December. It is great to see that Sean Tobin of Clonmel AC has been selected on the Senior team. Sean is no stranger to these Senior Championships having competed in three already like in Samorin, Slovakia in 2017 when he was 15th,

in Tilburg in 2018 when he was 10th and 2019 in Lisbon where he finished 18th.

It is great to see him back competing again at the European Cross Country Championships. We wish him and the rest of the Irish squad the very best of luck.

(See also separate piece on opposite page re Sean Tobin).

Nenagh

Olympic AC’s Daniel Ryan Ellis leading in the Men’s National Novice Cross Country Championships at Tramore on Sunday last

Clonmel AC’s Laura Cooney competing in the Women’s National Novice Cross Country Championships at Tramore on Sunday last

Cara Ryan, Loreto Secondary School, Clonmel who recently competed in the Junior Category at the SIAB Pentathlon in Glasgow.

the week in SPORT

Great weekend of rugby for Clonmel with wins for seniors and U14s

by Schira Lane

SENIORS

On Friday night last, our Senior 2nds headed to Cashel for Round 4 of the Munster Senior 2nds League. The Munster Senior League is divided into two divisions: Division 1 for Senior Clubs who play 1A & 1B AIL and Division 2 for Clubs who play 2A, 2B & 2C. So it was already a great achievement that the Clonmel team headed to Cashel top of the table after 3 rounds.

Clonmel RFC is, this year, blessed with plenty of depth across the Seniors and the game saw the return from injury of Harry Lane, Denis Clancy and Jack Lane. All in all the squad had a mix of AIL experience which is invaluable in a strong competition like this.

Clonmel started strong, doing well in their set pieces and were unlucky to loose fullback Dean Slattery a minute into the game with a hand injury. Slattery scored a hat-trick of tries in his last game but such is the Club depth, replacement Sean McEntegert put in a fine game off the bench. Whilst things were a little rusty at times for Clonmel, all in all it was a great team performance. Set pieces were strong and Hooker Liam Ryan won Man of the Match. There were fine carries by Prop Jason Monua, No. 8 Brian O’Dea, flankers Jack Lane and Monbgeni Masuka. Locks Conor Bowen and

Captain Billy Coffey secured some great lineout ball while scrum half Ben O’Dwyer put in great links with the backs, putting them into space on numerous occasions.

In the first half, winger Liam Maher and centre Luke Hogan crossed the line for Clonmel. Despite a fine all round team defence, Clonmel went into the break a point behind. Some lovely breaks by wingers Zac Cahalan and Cian Lonergan off the bench kept the game alive. Centre Harry Lane made a fine return after 7 months out with a broken leg. Prop Cian Beckers had good impact off the bench. Luke Hogan and Liam Maher had fine outings for the Club and both scored again in the second half. It was a solid 4 out of 4 from the boot of Ben O’Dwyer to bring Clonmel home with a 28-18 Bonus point victory.

The win keeps them at the top of the table. They face UL Bohs in the last round and league decider next Sunday at home.

AIL RESUMES ON SATURDAY AWAY TO MIDLETON

Our Firsts return to the AIL on Saturday when they face Table leaders Midleton away.

They were drawn against Old Crescent for the Semi-final of the Munster Senior Cup to be played in February.

UNDER 14S

Our U14s had a super win in their Semi-final against Water-

park in the East Munster League. In what was a great team performance they ran in two tries in the first half which were converted with super skill.

Waterpark came back in the second half and scored two tries of their own and the game finished 14-14. As Clonmel scored the first try, they came out victorious and head to the East Munster final.

Keep an eye on Social Media for the fixture details.

MINI’S

The Mini’s hosted a home blitz on Sunday. Visiting teams were from Cashel Rugby Club, Tramore, Dungarvan and Fermoy. Over 550 players attended and with all the supporters, the Ard Gaoithe grounds were packed.

It was a great morning of super rugby with plenty of tries scored. Well done to all the warriors and to Eamonn Dawson, our Mini’s co-ordinator for a great morning for the Club. A special thank you to Boston Scientific for use of their carpark. It was great community spirit and engagement by the Company.

Mini’s rehearsals for the Christmas Concert are well underway under the baton of Suzanne Buttimer of Rockwell Music Academy. Over 35 children will join Clonmel RFC Male Voice Choir on December 19th for a festive evening of song. Tickets are now on sale in Eldons Bar.

Nenagh under 16s

grind

out hard-earned win over Birr

NENAGH U16 24

BIRR UNDER 16 17

Nenagh didn’t find top gear against a tough Birr side but deservedly won on a scoreline of 24-17. Nenagh made a promising start to the game with early pressure in the Birr 22. The forwards made some great carries and managed to maintain possession, but some promising attacks came to nothing following some scrambling defence from Birr who managed to hold Nenagh up over the try line on two occasions. However, the early pressure eventually told when Nenagh crossed for their first try which was well converted by Charlie Talbot for a 7-0 lead.

Nenagh were on the back foot from the restart. Birr managed to retain some possession, and they looked threatening when they moved the ball wide responding with two unconverted tries to take a 10-7 lead. Birr didn’t commit too many defenders to the ruck,

kept their defenders on their feet and didn’t allow Nenagh any space with their line speed in defence.

So Nenagh went back to basics, the forwards carried hard from the base of the scrum, drove the maul from the lineouts and kicked for territory. While many promising attacks broke down when Nenagh were guilty of not resourcing the breakdown or being too slow to support the ball carrier they eventually got in for their second converted try to take a 14-10 lead at half time.

Nenagh started the second half the better team and good defensive pressure allowed Aaron Walsh to intercept and run in from the Birr 10 metre line to score under the posts for a 19-10 lead. Following some good work from Dara Corish and Dara Boland, Oscar Griffin touched down in the corner to move Nenagh 14 points ahead. Birr scored their third and final try of the game through an interception to leave bring the score to

24-17 to Nenagh. Birr attacked strongly for the remainder of the game, but the Nenagh defence was a resolute and they held out to the final whistle.

We move on to Phase 2 of the U16 Munster Cup next weekend.

U12s entertain Shannon

Nenagh Under 12s welcomed Shannon RFC to Lisatunny on Sunday morning for our first home Munster blitz of the season. After persistent rain on Saturday, we were fortunate to have excellent conditions on Sunday and playing on our new 3G pitch which ensured the crowd were treated to superb running rugby from the two sets of teams. All the boys enjoyed themselves and once again a huge thanks to the parents who provided such great hospitality afterwards.

Action from the Clonmel v Waterpark Under 14 East Munster Final last weekend which Clonmel won with a sudden-death try after the game ended tied at 14-14

The combined Nenagh Ormond and Shannon Under 12s pose for their photo before their game last weekend

Minor’s double has Mary and Donal smiling

GREYHOUND RACING

FRIDAY NIGHT at Clonmel Greyhound Stadium was heaving with Christmas Party goers enjoying some fantastic festive food and drinks and of course accompanied with some fantastic racing which produced thrilling finishes adding to the overall experience.

Two very promising debutants kicked off racing on Friday night firstly with the David Flanagan trained Canya Jet owned by Golden owner Imelda Sinclair taking the opening race with a very dominant trap to line performance in 29.31. Just after Aaron O’Hanlon sent out Alex Callachan’s Swift Aeroplane to come home with a powerful finish to in 29.28. Michael Ryan and Tom O’Neill from Kilsheelan had a very impressive winner in the fourth when the Davy Whelan trained Blueway Storm showing a fantastic turn of foot from halfway finished strongest on the run in to win in 28.80. Clonmel owner Pat Morrissey had his runner Petshop Farewell back on the winner’s podium when his Maurice Organ trained runner made it a trap to line performance in 29.08 which was his eight-career win. A cracking finish to the sixth race with Barra Humbub owned by Joy Sanders from Ballingarry just snatched it from Boozed Expert by a neck in a thrilling finish in 29.68 while Dick and Tony Lonergan were all smiles when Gerber taking control of the eight race from the

second bend held a very firm line to win in 29.21. Gerber trained by Aaron O’Hanlon filled a double for the trainer on the night.

The Bansha brothers The Esmonde’s were hopping as they watched Dakota Law run the final bends of the A3 525 with serious pace to get past the two longtime leaders and win on the line in 28.84. A win for this relatively lightly raced youngster who shows that powerful finish on all his runs. Fethard trainer David Flanagan also completed a double on the night taking the final race when The Poker Gang Syndicate owned Poker Queen, who was a winner last week, showed a very strong finish from the final bend to win by half a length in 29.53.

SUNDAY NIGHT

Sunday night’s card, a 12-race graded card was also full of thrilling finishes with local owner Mary O’Connor coming away with a double. Minor Magical and Autumn Risk closing and closing on the longtime leader Still My Honey on the run in just snatched it by a short head in 29.14. After that in the sixth race Minor Part finished best on the run in to deny Hasty Luna by half a length in 16.74.

John Graham Campbell from Thurles had Bionic Blackjack take the second race in a very thrilling finish beating the favourite Baalbec Lass by a head in 29.48. James Wade from Cashel and Michael Ryan from Kilsheelan

were all smile as Tullovin Duchess snatched her fifth race by a length with a very strong finish on the run in in 28.97. Cashel owners Imelda and Danny O’Dwyer had Windmill LaLa on the winner’s podium when she totally dominated the tenth race in 29.11. Peter Hattemore from Carrick On Suir had his super lady Great Claire winning once again taking the final race in 29.27.This is a true fairy tale story for the owner having purchased this lady at the sales for a very reasonable sum she now has won eight races for the owner and on this performance when in the stripped sheet will have plenty

more to come.

Young owner Dylan O’Hanlon won his first race with My Dylans Shadow back in March this year which had him smiling from ear to ear. Since then, she has been knocking on the door without success but on her last two runs she has found that winning formula once again winning last week in 29.53 and adding to that made it back-to-back wins taking the fourth race in 29.11.

It is a real family affair as his dad and grandad help him with training his special lady. Ascot Logan who had a fine run back some time ago with seven consecutive wins was out of form having

had a lay off but back on Sunday night he showed his exceptional talent with his early pace complemented with a powerful finish win his twentieth race for owners Bill Murphy and Frances Mullan in fastest time of the night 28.63.

PARTY NIGHTS AT CLONMEL GREYHOUND STADIUM

Still a few places remaining at

the Stadium for party nights on the run into Christmas and with the up coming Riverside Kennels Munster Christmas Cup starting next week racing will be at a premium and who knows we might see the talking greyhound of the year Boylesports Irish Derby Winner Bockos Diamond on final night.

A delighted Dylan O Hanlon with his super lady My Dylans Shadow.

Donal and Mary O’Connor with Minor Magical first of the owner’s double at Clonmel Greyhound Stadium on Sunday night last.