Local Notes
Showing below local notes from the Saturday March 6th, 2010 issue of The Southern Star.
Areas: Skibbereen | Macroom | Ballincollig | Kinsale | Dunmanway | Courtmacsherry | Clonakilty | Carrigaline | Beara & District | Bantry | Bandon |
Skibbereen
OPENING this Friday night at Skibbereen Town Hall is a hilarious black comedy by Mayo man Michael Joe Ginnelly, called ‘A Wake in the West.’ Skibbereen Theatre Society will be staging this, their latest production, on Friday, March 5, with performances also planned for Sunday 7th, Tuesday 9th and Wednesday 10th, nightly at 8pm. This side-splitting comedy, directed by Fachtna O’Driscoll and with a cast of nine, is the ideal antidote to all the current doom and gloom. Tickets for the show are available in advance from Thornhill Bros. Electrical, Skibbereen, telephone 028-22557, or may be purchased at the Town Hall from 7.30pm on the nights of the performances.
DAY OF PRAYER
All are welcome to the World Day of Prayer Service this Friday, 5th, at 8pm at Skibbereen Methodist Centre, Mill Road. Planned this year by the Christian women of Cameroon, the service is an ecumenical gathering which wants to welcome everyone. In recent years, the World Day of Prayer, although organised by women, has sought to invite men to participate and join in what is a special event, where the same prayers and readings are shared around the world on the same day. Speakers are Mrs Irene Bagnell, Skibbereen, and Rev Moba Mwanzele, Clonakilty and formely of DR Congo.
HELP FOR HAITI
Several local groups have come together in an effort to raise funds for the people of Haiti. This event will take place at the West Cork Hotel on Friday, March 12 next, at 8.30 pm. Music and drama will be presented by Skibbereen Comhaltas, Aughadown Foroige Group, the Caheragh and Dromore Folk Group and Accord Singers. We are all aware of the dreadful situation facing the people of Haiti and this is an opportunity for us to show them our support. There will be a presentation from the Cork representative of Trocaire, talking about the work they are doing on the ground in Haiti. There is no entrance fee for the evening; all donations will be gratefully received. People are urged make the effort to support the Haitian people. Further details call 028 38074.
PARADE ENTRIES
A great family afternoon of entertainment is on the menu at the Fairfield this St Patrick's Day, following the parade which begins at 2.30pm. Full details will be carried in next week's Southern Star. There's an open invitation to all national schools and organisations in the area to participate in the parade. Schools or organisations intending to take part are requested to contact the parade organiser, Micheál Hurley on 086-8158786, as soon as possible.
COPE EVENING
The COPE Foundation annual cheese and wine evening will be held in the West Cork Hotel, Skibbereen on Wednesday 10th next at 8.30pm. Music will be by by Colum Cronin and Declan Groarke. Proceeds are in aid of the COPE Foundation, Skibbereen.
FRUIT TREE PLANTING
As part of National Tree Week (March 7 to 14) Sustain West Cork will be planting apple and hazelnut trees alongside the Caol Stream, just behind Hegarty’s Garage at 2pm this Sunday, 7th. Mayor Brendan Leahy will be turning the first sod. The planting marks the launch of Sustain West Cork’s Community Orchards and Nut Groves Project. Ballydehob Food Group will also be planting trees in the schools on March 10, as part of a series of events the group are planning for the week. A second planting will take place in Skibbereen and other towns in West Cork during the autumn. In the interim months Sustain West Cork will be accepting applications from residents’ associations, community groups and schools throughout the area for planting of trees in their grounds. Local suppliers Woodkerne Nurseries are supplying the trees.
FÉILE CHEOIL
Skibbereen Comhaltas are organising their third annual Feile Cheoil on this Sunday, March 7, in Rossa College, starting at 11.30am. This will feature competitions on a wide variety of musical instruments along with singing, recitation and comhra gaeilge. Competitions are open to both members and non-members. For further information, contact Rose at 087-9853266
POETRY READING
As part of their ongoing 10th anniversary celebrations at Working Artist Studios, a reading by distinguished local poet, James Harpur, writer-in-residence at the Munster Literature Centre, takes place in WAS, 71 North Street, Skibbereen, this Thursday, 4th, at 7.00pm. There will be an open-mic session afterwards. Fáilte roimh cách!
CIVIL DEFENCE
On Sunday 21st last, Cork West Civil Defence took part in an inter-agency coastline search for the Egyptian fisherman who was lost at sea on February 13. In the joint effort with the Coastguard and the lifeboat and inshore rescue crews, three members of Cork West Civil Defence took part in a search that covered the area from Three-Castle Head to the Galley Head. In perfect conditions, the crew of John Crowley, Mícheál Harrington and Anne O’Mahony, searched the area from High Island along the inlets and rocky shoreline to the Galley Head. A further search is (provisionally) planned for March 6. Twelve members of West Cork Civil Defence are currently in training for the forthcoming regional competition, to be held in the Kerry region in May. The team will be tested in basic rescue techniques, foot drill, flooding tasks, first aid and one overall team task. The winner of the regional competition will go on to represent its section in the national competition in September.
Parish Assembly
The parishes of Skibbereen and Rath and the Islands will shortly be taking nominations for a new Parish Assembly. Many parishes already have an Assembly and they are proving to be a source of great support and effectiveness throughout the Diocese of Cork and Ross. What it means is that about 35 people in Skibbereen and 20 people in Baltimore, Sherkin and Cape Clear will pool their gifts and talents for the service of parish life. They will meet to organise liturgies, work with youth, study the scriptures, welcome new people and any other priorities each parish might have. In preparation for this, a small group from each parish has been meeting together and will speak in all churches shortly. It is requested the nomination process will begin after Easter and the Assembly will be up and running by the beginning of summer.
Tidy Towns AGM
The AGM of Skibbereen Tidy Towns will be held on March 16th at Baby Hannah’s (back room), Bridge Street. All are welcome and the support of local residents and business people is essential, if they are to get the town looking well. New members are welcome, as well as new ideas.
Macroom
RESIDENTIAL care housing daily lunches and meals on wheels service, social activities and education services – these are just the main activities of Macroom Senior Citizens committee based at Fr. Ryan Hall, when the AGM was held on Monday night last. Sullane Haven adjacent to Fr. Ryan Hall provides independent living and nearby also are the housing units operated by the committee. The kitchens in Fr. Ryan Hall last year prepared a staggering number of meals – over 13,500 in all which were daily served up in the hall and delivered by the meals on wheels team to people who could not come to the hall. Weekly bingo, monthly socials, arts and craft classes, dancing classes, annual holiday, annual outing, Christmas Dinner and Social – these social activities were all provided by the committee and its dedicated band of voluntary workers. Chairman Pat O’Connell praised his fellow committee members for all their outstanding work, thanked the Health Service Executive for financial assistance and the Macroom community generally for its outstanding financial support in times of reduced state assistance. The committee initiated a new fund raiser last November “The Shopeen” Charity Shop at Fr. Ryan Hall and this has proven to be a fine venture with strong public support. Finance is becoming a problem but the committee is endeavouring to maintain the high level of service currently provided by undertaking various fundraising activities and appreciate the strong support from the business community and general public it has always enjoyed down the years. The officers for the coming year are: chairman, Pat O’Connell; vice-chairman, Rev. Fr. G. Burke CR; secretary, Regina Casey; assistant secretary, Ann Cronin; treasurer, Evelyn Mungovan; assistant treasurer, Sr. Francesco; PRO, Katie Dineen.
Schools festival Finals
The All-Ireland Schools Choral Festival finals and the finals of the All-Ireland Transition Year Drama Festival was held in Macroom’s Briery Gap last weekend and there was an amazing array of young talent in evidence in both competitions. Friday night’s choral finals had five finalists on stage and victory ultimately went to St. Mary’s secondary school, Macroom, by the narrowest of margins – the local girls having one point to spare over the outstanding St. McCartans College from Monaghan. Each of the finalists performed three pieces and St. Mary’s conducted by Eileen Kingston came out on top for the second year in a row. Minister for Education and Science Batt O’Keeffe, TD, praised the winners and all the finalists and had particular praise for Mrs. Anne Dunne, manager of the Briery Gap who organised the festival. On Saturday, 18 finalists in the drama competition were on stage from 10am in the morning until 9pm in the evening with the day organised in three sessions. Each finalist put on a 25 minute production and there was a huge variety of themes, with comedy, music and serious drama, some original, some adaptations of classic dramas. The competition was won by Blackwater College, Lismore, with ‘Blood Brothers’ and this group also won the awards for Best Chorus Appearance and Best Producer /Director. Local school De La Salle College won the award for Best Comedy Performance with their Jerry Springer-like take on the Playboy of the Western World entitled “Milling Tin Synger Special”. Mayor of Macroom praised all the students and their teacher. The main awards for 2010 All-Ireland Transition Year Drama Festival are as follows: 1st prize overall, Blackwater Community College, Lismore, Co. Waterford, “Blood Brothers”; 2nd prize overall, St. Mary’s Secondary School, Charleville, “Voyage of the Orphans”; 3rd prize overall, Presentation College, Thurles, Co. Tipperary, “Godspell”. Best previous non prize winner, Mount St. Michael, Rosscarbery, “Donalbain”; Best Irish language play, Colaiste Muire, Ennis, Co. Clare, “An Triail”; Best Comedy performance, De La Salle, Macroom; Best Director, the directing team, Blackwater Community College, Lismore, Co. Waterford, “Blood Brothers”; Best ensemble acting award (100), CBS, Kilkenny; Best Set, the laundry set in “An Triail”, Colaiste Muire, Ennis, Co. Clare; Best Performance, Eleanor O’Brien as Catherine in “Hard to Swallow”, St. Joseph’s Secondary School, Doon, Co. Limerick; Best Set and Lighting, Mercy College, Sligo, “Heavenly Occurences”; Best Original Script, Mercy College, Sligo, “Heavenly Occurences”; Best Costume, St. Mary’s Secondary School, Charleville, “Voyage of the Orphans”; Best Supporting Role, Maria Wilson as Pegeen in “Donalbain”, Mount St. Michael, Rosscarbery; Special Adjudicator Award, The Chorus of Blood Brothers, Blackwater Community College, Lismore, Co. Waterford; Special Adjudicator Award, character who play Jesus in “Godspell” in Presentation College, Thurles, Co. Tipperary. Runner-up prizes awarded to: Presentation College, Milltown; St. Joseph’s, Doon, Co. Limerick A; Nagle Rice Secondary, Doneraile; Scoil Airegeal, Ballyhale; Luarel Hill, Limerick; St. Mary’s Secondary School, Arklow; St. Joseph’s Secondary School B; CBS Kilkenny; Mercy College, Sligo; King’s Hospital, Palmerstown; Sacred Heart, Clonakilty. The main awards for All-Ireland Second-Level Choral Festival 2010 are as follows: 1st prize, St. Mary’s Secondary School, Macroom; 2nd prize, St. McCartan’s College, Monaghan; 3rd prize, Blackwater Community College, Lismore, Co. Waterford. Runners-up: Loreto Secondary School, Navan, Co. Meath, and Wilson’s Hospital School, Multifarnham, Co. Westmeath. Best song from non prizewinning group, “Anything Goes”, from Loretto Secondary School, St. Michael’s, Navan, Co. Meath.
St. Patrick’s Day
The arrangements for the St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Macroom on Wednesday week are now being completed and Gerry Gray, chairman of the promoters, The Lee Valley Enterprise Board, has promised that the Parade subcommittee has put together an exciting programme of events for St. Patrick’s Day in Macroom. A group from Woodland String Band in Philadelphia, 50 in all, will be spending nine days in Macroom and also present for the parade will be the Mayor of Bubry and of Marcallo con Cazone, the two towns twinned with Macroom. Indeed, the parade Grand Marshall will be M. Jean Yves Nicolas, Mayor of Bubry. There will be a ceilí in the Castle Hotel on St. Patrick’s night. The parade will be live on the Webcam on www.macroom.ie to facilitate Macroom exiles all over the world and the day will conclude with the traditional Monster Firework display at 8pm, sponsored by Macroom Motors. As always the events of the day on the streets are free and the Lee Valley Enterprise Board has expressed its thanks to Macroom Town Council for its continued generous sponsorship of the festivities.
Sullane Players
Since their formation by new town councillor Pat Melia four years ago, Sullane Players have established themselves as an outstanding dramatic group and their three productions to date have all been sell outs at the Briery Gap. Their 2010 production “Separate Beds” by Sam Cree will be on stage at the Briery Gap on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, March 10-12, and seems sure to maintain the reputation of the group. “Separate Beds” is a hilarious comedy set in modern times and promises a night of fun for young and old alike. There are four new faces in the cast this year – Georgina Healy, Adriana Dineen, Pat Mullane and Treasa O’Riordan and they join up with the regular line-up of Robert O’Riordan, Emer O’Neill, Jason Shannon, Eleanor Lucey and Trevor Horgan. The proceeds of the production will go to Macroom Boxing Club and Macroom Shine. Bookings can be made at 026-41793 and are already brisk. Director Pat Melia has thanked all the generous sponsors who came and supported the group since its foundation.
Starmakers
Starmakers present “Mary Poppins” at the Briery Gap this Friday and Saturday evening at 8pm and a matinee performance on Sunday afternoon at 3pm.
Ballincollig
On Thursday 25th the work and dedication of the Ballincollig Tidy Towns team was formally recognised by Cork County Council when they were invited to a civic reception in their honour in County Hall by the County Mayor, Cllr Derry Canty. Mayor Canty addressed the group and thanked them for the great efforts made over a sustained period of years in Ballincollig. Ballincollig’s Local Area Engineer, Ken O’Riordan and the Council’s Director of Services, Patricia Power reinforced his kind words in further addresses to the group. The chairman of Ballincollig Tidy Towns, Tom Butler, accepted a gift presented by Mayor Canty. After the presentation the group enjoyed some refreshments and a tour to the top floor of the building. All involved appreciated the formal acknowledgement by the Council of the work carried out for the community of Ballincollig. Anyone with an hour to spare on a Sunday morning, not necessarily every week, would be most welcome. Every Sunday morning volunteers meet at Quish’s SuperValu car park at 11am. Just turn up and the committee will supply pickers, gloves and bags. Alternatively anyone can get in touch through Pat Clarke of Ballincollig Plant and Tool Hire in Innishmore.
Belvedere Hockey
The division 2 ladies became the second ladies’ team to reach their divisional final a week ago. The division 6 played the Plate final at home to Dungarvan on Saturday last and division 5 played their postponed cup, round 1, at home to Limerick also on Sunday last. Results: The ladies division 2 side won 4-1, the division 3 ladies lost 1-0, while both the division 5 and 6 ladies games were postponed and the division 3 men’s game was abandoned. On Saturday, February 20, the division 2 ladies played their cup semi-final away to Ashton and returned with a 4-1 victory. Dungarvan 1, Belvedere 0: This was a great performance of determination guts and passion by Belvedere. Match abandoned – Harlequins 1, Belvedere 2: Belvedere’s division 3 men’s team made the short journey to Harlequins on Sunday fortnight last. After a player was injured in an accident it was decided to abandon the game.
Lakewood Pitch & Putt
The Senior team got their first win of their league campaign a fortnight ago when they defeated Rocklodge 5½ to 3½. Unfortunately the Intermediate and Junior teams games were cancelled due to frost. The results of the competition on Wednesday 24th were: 1st nett, Mick O’Leary and Ted Canty, 48 points; 1st gross, Eileen Murphy and Noel McCarty, 42 points; 2nd nett, Mary O’Donovan and Paddy Dennehy, 47 points. Last Saturday’s results were: 1st nett, John Dineen and Mary Burke, 41 points, 1st gross, Noel McCarthy and John Dineen; 2nd nett, Pat Moore and Ann Brassill, 45 points. Sunday morning’s results: 1st nett, Josie Twomey and Jo McCarthy; 1st gross, Noel McCarthy and Mary O’Donovan. Sunday evening’s results: 1st nett, Darren O’Leary and Gretchen Ahern; 1st gross, Pat Conway and Eileen Murphy. Last Sunday morning was a poor morning in the County Leagues for the Senior and Intermediate teams, with both losing. But the Junior team didn’t leave the club down on their first morning out when they defeated Riverside 5-4. Next Sunday the Senior team will face St. Anne’s at Rocklodge and the Intermediates face ESB in Fermoy. The Junior team faces Templebreedy in Majestic. Anyone interested in joining the club is asked to either contact the club by email at info@lakewoodpitchandputt.com or by contacting club secretary John Coleman at 021-4870566 for further information. Due to an insufficient number of people travelling on the club outing to Barcelona, the event is now cancelled. A normal club outing will be organised later in the year.
Toastmasters
The last meeting of Ballincollig Toastmasters was held on Wednesday 24th last. There were four speakers on the night with an additional educational piece provided by Paul Martin. The ‘best evaluator’ was won by Aileen McCarthy and ‘best topics speaker’ was won by Ciarán Lyne. Overall this was a fun and highly enjoyable night thoroughly enjoyed by all present. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday next, 10th, at 7.45pm in Oriel House Hotel. Guests are always very welcome to attend. For further details log on to www.powdermillstoastmasters.org or contact Damien Lynch at 086-8411160.
Pyke Theatre Group
The monthly social for March will be held on Tuesday next, 9th, at Tanner Park. The fancy dress theme for the night is St Patrick’s Day, and all are welcome. The Theatre Group has been invited to take part in the upcoming St Patrick’s Day Parade in Ballincollig on Wednesday 17th. Members of the theatre group will be performing the play Once Bitten on stage at the Camden Theatre in London for four days at the end of April.
Community Training
South and East Cork Area Development (SECAD) and Cork Environmental Forum (CEF) in association with Cork County Council proudly present ‘Growing Together’, a community food training event in Fota House on this Saturday from 11am to 4pm. This is a free event which aims to inform the general public on topics such as local foods, allotments, community supported agriculture, GIY (Grow-It-Yourself), composting, Slow Food and much more. For more information contact Ross Curley at the offices of SECAD on 021-4613432 or visit www.secad.ie / www.cef.ie for a full timetable of events on the day.
Westgate Foundation
The annual Foundation Awards night will be held on Saturday, April 24, from 8pm to 11pm at a cost of €10 including buffet supper. The awards will be presented for the following categories: staff of the year, volunteer of the year, service user of the year and supporter of the year. There will be music on the night by Crystal Swings.
Rugby
Another good away win by Ballincollig saw them move up the league table to fourth place with a very creditable haul of 23 points. With two games left to play in the league they have five wins, one draw and three losses to date. Team: B O’Keeffe, P Flynn, J Power, B O’Mahony, E O’Driscoll, D Galvin, D Lancaster, M Kelly, J Twohig, D Gleeson, J Stevenson, D Casey (capt), O’Malley, J Dennehy and K Neeson. Substitutes, P Bohane, J Redmond, G Murphy, V Browne and C Forde. Next game is against joint leaders Richmond in Tanner Park on Sunday. The other joint leaders, Tralee, play Skibbereen on the same day. It will be interesting to see which club emerges as champions. The J3 side comprehensively defeated Mallow to win the J3 league for the second year in a row.
Bridge club
The team results of the games played on Wednesday of last week were: 1st Deirdre O’Sullivan and Anne Brassill, Lelia O’Brien and Phil O’Brien; 2nd Eileen T Murphy and Michael Carroll, Eileen Hickey and Kathleen Burts. Bridge is played every Wednesday night in the Rugby Club Pavilion Tanner Park at 7.25pm to which new, existing members and novices are most welcome.
Ladies Gaelic Football
Fees are due shortly for registered players and immediately for new players. Members are reminded it takes a few weeks to process registrations to Croke Park, and without registration you can’t play matches. The juniors, U18s and U16s thoroughly enjoyed being put through their paces by guest trainer, Juliet Murphy, on Monday night last. She is joining the club for a few weeks to give a fresh perspective to the ball skills and drills, and she was impressed by the fitness and ball-handling abilities already in place. Anyone interested in super training and a bit of craic is welcome to train from 7pm to 8pm every Monday and Wednesday, except for Wednesday next the 10th when they play Fermoy Junior ‘B’ at home at 80pm, meeting at 7.15pm at the clubhouse. The club is delighted to be represented on the Cork U16 squad by Meadhbh Flynne. Cork Senior ladies dispatched Kerry in the cold sunshine of CIT last Sunday in the National League, and face Galway on Sunday, March 8, at Buttevant; throw-in at 3pm. For further information the club can be contacted at 087-6645354, by email at ballincolligladiesfootball@gmail.com or by visiting the website at ballincolligladies.gaa.ie.
Comhaltas
There was a large attendance on Monday night last for set dancing and Diarmuid finished teaching the Kilfenora Set. Set and céilí dancing is held every Monday night at 9pm in the Ballincollig GAA Pavilion. Further information is available by contacting Diarmuid at 087-2028638. Sean-nós dancing classes for adult beginners and improvers continue in Coolcower House Hotel Macroom on Tuesday nights from 7.30 for beginners and from 8.30 to 9.30pm for improvers, until the end of March. Eolas as Risteárd ar 087-7732387. Branch members are visiting primary schools with song and story, music and dance, until March 17. On Monday week, 15th, St Patrick’s Céilí will be held at 9pm in the local GAA Pavilion. Ceol beo le Matthew Kelleher agus Liam Healy. Usual cupán tae agus beidh fáilte roimh cách. Everyone welcome. Tidil Eidil Eró, a new CD of traditional songs in Irish for children, will be launched by Tomás Ó Canainn on Thursday week next, 18th, at 7.30pm in Oriel House Hotel. It will be followed by oíche amhránaíochta (a singing session). All welcome. Eolas as Jerry at 086-0746235.
Kinsale
THE NEWS that the Kinsale Community School has received permission to appoint a design team for an extension and refurbishment of their school building has been warmly welcomed by school authorities and public representatives. The announcement was made under the latest round of funding provided by the Minister for Education and Science, Batt O’Keeffe TD in the school building programme. School principal, Sr Mary Donovan, said she was very happy with this development as it was a significant sign of progress in ensuring that the school would be in a position to continue to provide the maximum learning environment for the students of the area. The Kinsale Community School caters for a wide area as it is the only second level school in Kinsale so it has students from Kinsale, Belgooly, Riverstick, Ballinhassig, Minane Bridge, Ballinspittle and Innishannon. It was opened in 1996 to accommodate 460 students and by mid 1998 a permanent extension consisting of a woodwork room, one science lab, and three classrooms was added. At present there are 704 students in the school. With the increase of population in the above areas student numbers have increased correspondingly and they now have 12 pre fabricated classrooms in the school. According to Dept of Education figures, projected enrolment for Kinsale Community School is 850 students. The issue of providing an extension has been on-going for approximately six years but in April 2007, the school was listed on the Dept of Education website as one of 56 schools urgently needing either extensions or a new build. The principal and chairperson of the board of management did meet Department of Education officials in Tullamore in June 2007. After this meeting a technical visit took place after which the school was deemed ready to proceed to architectural planning. Meanwhile, because the school has only one woodwork room, one home economics room, one small sized gym, one metalwork room, and three science labs. Speaking about the announcement Senator Denis O’Donovan said: “I’m pleased to see that progress is being made with Kinsale Community School. The school has been badly overcrowded for several years now and is desperate for more space. There has been an increase approaching 25% in the number of students attending the school over the last few years. That is putting tremendous pressure on the facilities and it is why it is vital that this work is completed as soon as possible. I’m glad that we have moved a step towards achieving that goal with this announcement. The school will be able to appoint a design team to work out the specifications for the project in the third quarter of this year and hopefully that will lead to the physical work being carried out in the not too distant future.”
HEAD SHOP PROTEST
The growing concern at the opening of a head shop in Kinsale has been shown in the decision of the Town Council to call on the Government to introduce immediate legislation to control such outlets. One member, Noel Harrington of Sinn Féin, has gone a step further with a picket outside the premises in Market Quay to highlight the dangers to those who may be tempted to try the products. A number of young people in other areas have been hospitalised as a result and the fears in Kinsale is that something similar may happen there. However, the proprietor showed a locked cabinet from which he said goods are sold only on production of ID with proof that the customer is aged over 18. Cllr Harrington says that Sinn Féin has continuously called for the closure of all such stores, as they represent a serious threat to public health, saying that the substances they sell are as bad, if not worse than illegal narcotics, and have only escaped censure due to deceptive labelling of the products. The proliferation of ‘Head Shops’ in this state is causing huge concern for parents and people who work in the field of drugs.
MACRA NEWS
Kinsale Macra, though a relatively new club, have been extremely busy in the last few months. Some members performed in the Cork County Capers competition and entertained everybody with their act ‘Disco Dancing’. Paul O’Regan came away with the title of best male performer on the night as a result of his excellent performance. Macra also provides its members with the opportunity to get involved in sport and the club’s soccer team took part in the Seandun Soccer League and were very successful. Members also proved to be skilled at debating when they entered the Seandun novice debating competition. As always, Macra’s social diary is packed with upcoming events and the club plans to take part in a club exchange and a great night is expected. The club is also holding a fundraising quiz on the 12th March in the Lord of Kinsale at 8.30pm. Macra welcomes everybody and great prizes, as well as a great night, are guaranteed. Finally, the Macra members would like to remind everybody that new members are always welcome. Please contact Martina 085-7290200 for more info.
STATION TIMES
Tha age old tradition of the stations continues in Kinsale over the next few weeks and the details of the country stations are as follows: On Friday, March 12, at 8pm at the home of Derry and Theresa Murphy, for Kilcaw, Garragha, Snugmore and Knockduff. Friday, March 19, at 8pm at the home of Stephen and Cathy Tobin, for Farrangalway, Ballyvrin, Ballinamona, Mellifontstown. Friday, March 26, at 8pm at the home of Denis Paul and Margaret Griffin, for Brownsmills, Camphill, Farm Lane, Watersland. Friday, March 26, at 11am, at the home of Denis and Rose Carroll. For Killaney, Hollyhill and The Doon. The town stations also begin next week and will take place on the following dates, Tuesday, 9th at 8pm in the Friary Centre. For Cork St., Barrack St., Catholic Walk, Friary Lane, Friary Ave., Friar’s St., Chairman’s Lane, The Rock, Stonewell, Barrack Green and O’Brien Tce, The Kennels, The Belfry, Rock St., Carmelite Tce., O’Neill’s Villas, Finian Kelly Tce., Friary Court. Wednesday, March 10th, at 8pm in Summercove School For Summercove, Ardbrack, Fort View, Haven Hill and Ringcurran Rise. Thursday, 11th at 8pm, in St Joseph’s School. For Hogan’s Row, Monastery Gardens, Pine Grove, St Josephs Tce., St Mary’s Tce., St Patrick’s Tce., St Multose Walk, Guardwell Homes, Blind Gate, Church Lane, Church Sq., Mansfield Lands.
GAA NEWS
Registration for the upcoming year is on in the Temperance Hall on Saturday, March 6th, between 2pm and 5pm for boys and girls. Please come and register your child for the GAA on this day.
FASHION SHOW
Following the tremendous success of the recent fundraising ‘Putting on the Ritz’ fashion show, Anthony Collins and Roman Minihane of The White Lady Hotel are delighted to have been able to present a cheque for the proceeds amounting to E5,406 to Caitlin Uí Liathain, Priomhoide, Summercove NS. The school, teachers, parents and pupils are delighted with the outcome of this glamorous social event.
DANCING TIME
Dancing has seen a huge growth in popularity following last year’s TV programmes which gained huge audience numbers so it is no surprise to hear that dancing in the Kinsale area has taken on a new lease of life. The Marian Hall in Ballinhassig has seen increasing numbers, for those interested in ceili dancing as well as the afternoon tea dances and there will be one of each in the next few weeks. Following a successful ceili (sets) session on Friday evening last with music by Uí Bhriain, the next item is an Afternoon Tea Dance which will take place on Sunday, March 14, with music by Owen Condon, from 3 to 5.30 and teas will be served as usual.
SOCCER CLUB
AOH cup holders, Kinsale, had Douglas Hall as visitors to Madden Park at the weekend in spring-like conditions and both teams gave a great display on the day. Douglas is a very strong side and they went on the attack from the beginning. However, both sets of defences were in top form and the game remained scoreless until the interval after a very exciting first half. The second half continued at fever pitch until Douglas broke through to take the lead. Kinsale fought back to force a penalty which was converted by the Kinsale captain Derek McCarthy. There was no other score until the 40th minute when it looked as if extra-time would be needed but Douglas Hall were awarded a penalty and scored to take a 2 - 1 lead as time ran out for Kinsale. So, after this disappointment the players must now concentrate on winning the Premier League with the next match an away fixture against Coachford on Saturday at 2.30pm. The Premier League side had Knockavilla as visitors to Madden Park on Saturday week last. The bitter cold and sleet made conditions difficult but the very fit and enthusiastic visitors got off to a fantastic start when they over ran the home defence to score a great goal in the opening minutes. This stunned the Kinsale players but they recovered quickly and their captain, Derek McCarthy, broke through to equalise and let the score at 1 - 1 at the interval. The second half was very keenly fought as both sides fought for the lead, with near misses by each set of forwards but it was Kinsale who broke the deadlock with a second great goal by Derek McCarthy just minutes from the final whistle to secure three valuable points. The second team did not fare as well, losing 2 - 0 to Hibernians last week but had a 2 - 0 win over Lakewood this week. The club would like to extend their sincere sympathies to Noel Cummins and family on the death of Kathleen, a much-loved wife and mother who died at the weekend.
Dunmanway
THE Dunmanway 300 Committee, which was formed in 1993 to organise the commemoration of the 300th anniversary of Dunmanway’s status as a market town, convened on February 15 to formally conclude its business. At the meeting, it was decided that the outstanding balance in the committee’s bank account would be given to Cork County Council to be used for the upkeep and maintenance of the commemorative plague in the Square in Dunmanway. Speaking after the meeting, Senator McCarthy said: ‘I am glad that the committee has been able to ensure that the plaque on the Square will be properly maintained into the future. This is a fitting gesture from a committee that did much good work.’ Senator McCarthy thanked committee members for their work and commitment to Dunmanway.
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY
The Dunmanway Family Resource Centre will be holding an open morning from 10.30am to 12.30pm on Monday, March 8, to celebrate International Women’s Day. They invite women from the community to join them for refreshments and tell them about the supports they would like to see offered in the centre, as well as planning their programme of activities for 2010.
CARDIAC SUPPORT GROUP
The monthly meeting of the Clonakilty Cardiac Support Group will take place at the Emmett Hotel, Clonakilty, on Wednesday, March 10, at 8.30pm. The guest speaker will be Debra Davies, UKCP, IBECPT, Holistic Life Coach, Clonakilty, who will touch on stress management and making positive life changes. It should be a refreshing session. The meeting is open to and welcomes people who have had a cardiac event such as angina, a heart attack, had angioplasty with or without stents inserted, or who have had cardiac surgery (by-pass surgery, mitral valve surgery, etc). It is an opportunity to share experiences, fear and anxieties in a confidential setting. It is also is a source of contact for people waiting for heart surgery. For information, please contact Catherine Cahalane, Cardiovascular Public Health Nurse, HSE, on 086 7871552.
COMHALTAS NEWS
On Sunday last junior dancers representing Dunmanway Branch of Comhaltas travelled to Glengarriff to take part in a set dancing competition organised by the local branch of Comhaltas. The Under-12 girls’ team of Libby Blewitt, Kerri Healy, Mary O’Driscoll, Marlene Murray, Rebecca Broderick, Laurie Hayes, Sinead Duggan and Sarah Murray came third in their category. Also dancing in the Under-15 ladies category were Michelle Murphy, Claire Deane, Claire Murphy, Gráine Collins, Martina Collins, Katie Hall, Ann Collins and Orla Duggan.
CLAY TARGET CLUB
Dunmanway Clay Target Club results for Sunday, February 28, are as follows. 25 Bird Sporting, Senior: 1, Willie Lovekins, 2, Mike Murphy, and 3, Donnie O’Sullivan. Novice: 1, John Barry, 2, Peter Mannix, and 3, Mike Collins. Next shoot on Sunday, March 14. New members always welcome; contact Mike on 086 8777859 or Thomas on 086 8540852.
ICA
Meeting of Dunmanway ICA at St. Patrick’s Hall, Dunmanway, on Wednesday, March 10, at 8.30pm. Speaker from Citizens Information will attend on the night. All are welcome.
RAIN HARVESTING
In a recent statement, Senator Michael McCarthy, Labour Party Senator for Cork South-West, said: ‘New Cork schools should have rain harvesting systems; it should be a requirement for all new school building programmes in Cork.’ Minister for Education and Science, Batt O’Keeffe, told the Labour Party last week that of the 68 new primary schools built between 2006 and 2008, only 16, or less than a quarter, had a rain-harvesting system in place. ‘No new school built in Cork during this period included a rain-harvesting system,’ said Senator McCarthy. ‘Rain-harvesting systems can be used to collect rainwater for future use in the toilet-cleaning systems within the school. This means the ongoing costs of water to the school are reduced. Rain harvesting would also contribute to conserving water throughout Cork.’ The cost of putting a rain-harvesting system into place when the school is being constructed is in the order of €20,000. This amount is recouped in savings in the years after the school opens. Yet few new schools are being built with systems in place. ‘Apart from the lack of forward planning by the department, the Government is missing an opportunity to provide an example to young children of the need to harvest rainwater and conserve water. I would like to see our planning laws changed so that rain-harvesting systems become a requirement of any new school building. I would particularly urge the Minister, being from Cork, to ensure that new school buildings in Cork get the benefit of rain-harvesting initiatives from now on,’ Mr McCarthy concluded. For more information contact Michael McCarthy at 087 6481004.
NATIONAL TREE WEEK
National tree week runs from March 8. The IMFF (Irish natural forestry foundation) at Manch, Ballineen, starts off the 2010 open day season from Sunday, March 7, from 11am to 6pm. The family activity on the day is a winter tree trail and guided walk. All events are free. Contact IMFF at 023-8822823 for details.
RECENT DEATHS
The death took place recently at Bantry General Hospital of Michael (Mick) Collins, Lettergorman, Dunmanway. Husband of the late Eily Grace and Sylvia Cotter, brother of the late John, Fr. Lawrence, Julia and Simon. He is missed by his son John, brother Denis, sister Mary, brother-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, grandnephews, grandnieces, relatives, neighbours and friends. Following Requiem Mass in Sacred Heart Church, Drinagh, burial took place in the adjoining cemetery.
DOHENYS ATHLETIC CLUB
Dohenys Athletic Club had members representing the Cork team at the recent Munster relays held in Carrignavar. Boys’ Under-12: Cathal McCarthy won gold. Girls’ Under-14: Bella Sherlock, Melissa Duggan, Ciara Crowley and Triona Murphy also won gold. Joe Warne has had a very successful indoor season at 800m. He received bronze in both London and Vienna for the European championships. He competed in the national indoor championships in Belfast and finished in fifth place. The West Cork road race will be held in Kilbarry Road, Dunmanway, on Sunday, March 14, at 12pm. Races will be held for Under-9, 10, 12, 14, 16 and 20. Training still continues every Tuesday night at the Sports Hall at 7pm.
HISTORICAL SOCIETY
A talk on ‘The historical drug hauls in West Cork’ will be given by Ann Murphy, a reporter and author, in Cox’s Hall on Thursday, March 11, at 8pm. New members very welcome.
ST PATRICK’S PARADE
Dunmanway Community Council will host the St. Patrick’s Day Parade this year, again sponsored by Healy’s SuperValu. Any community group wising to participate can contact the community office in Main Street or phone 8856811 or contact any member of the community council. Volunteers are urgently needed with stewarding on the day. It is hoped the parade will be well supported by the community.
RUGBY CLUB
The Minis were in action last week when they hosted a blitz including Kinsale and Skibbereen. The young players were well supported and had a fantastic day’s rugby, with wins and losses across the field. It was evident by the smiles on their faces that to win or lose was not too important and a great day was had by all. The Under-12s enter their first competition this week in the south Munster qualifiers. The under-19s are away to Highfield for a 12.30pm kick-off and the Under-15s are at home against Muskerry in the Bernie Chambers West Cork Cup, kick-off at 11.30am. Thanks went to all the people who came to the table quiz last Friday in the Arch Bar to help raise funds for underage rugby. This Sunday is the much anticipated semi-final of the J2 Munster Cup, with Dunmanway hosting and playing against either Skibbereen or Dolphin; kick-off has yet to be confirmed. All supporters very welcome.
LENT
We are a couple of weeks into Lent now and there seems to be no great difference to any other time of year. Not that long ago Lent was a time of prayer, fasting, penance and self denial. People voluntarily refrained from partaking in any pleasurable or frivolous occasions for their own spiritual good, adults gave up cigarettes and drink, children gave up sweets and chocolate. The 40 days of Lent are meant to be a preparation for the events of Holy Week and Easter. Looking back, people will remember when there were no dances allowed, no entertainment at all. All the bands took off to England to tour the clubs and Irish dance halls. The only break was St Patrick’s Day when the rules were relaxed and there was the concert in the local hall.
COMMUNITY COUNCIL
Dunmanway Community Council has now opened an office in Main Street (in the old Heritage Centre). It is manned each day from 10am to 2pm, Monday to Friday. The Community Council’s aim is to make Dunmanway a better place for all the community. They can be reached on 023-8856811.
MICC NEWS
Maria Immaculata Community College is hosting a seminar titled ‘Study Skills and Your Child.’ This presentation provides parents/guardians with practical, realistic advice and ideas to help and assist their children with their studies. This takes place in Maria Immaculata Community College on Thursday, March 11, at 7.30 sharp. The local community in Dunmanway is once again supportive of Maria Immaculata Community College. Maybury Coaches has generously sponsored much-needed jerseys to the College. Earlier in the year, Mr. Seamus O’Sullivan of the Tar Isteach fundraising shop in Dunmanway made a very generous donation to MICC, which is being put to very good use. Tar Isteach accepts unwanted items for re-sale and the monies raised is distributed to various local charities and organisations. These generous contribution to the College, are hugely appreciated by MICC. Rang Saoirse (Special Class) in MICC are nominated for the ‘Better Ireland Project’. Support is need for them to win €5,000. You can do this by voting on line at www.betterireland.ie and follow instructions or text DMANWAY B to 51303. MICC is also very proud of its two students who are now Ireland Football champions. Derek Crowley and Shane Masters were members of the Cork VEC football teams that defeated Monaghan at the weekend.
HOSPITALITY FINALS
Rachel Salter from Dunmanway has qualified to represent Cork Institute of Technology at the forthcoming Irish Hospitality Institute (IHI) National Business Management Game to be held at Radisson Blu Hotel, Little Island, Cork, on March 7-8 next. Eleven teams of five students from eight catering colleges around Ireland will compete for the overall prize of a tutored three-day visit to Champagne Taittinger’s historic Château and Vineyards in Reims, North East France. The IHI Business Game consists of a case study of a hospitality business representing real life business issues such as interacting with competitors and the wider business environment, while also managing internal business affairs. Over the two days, the teams will devise strategies as well as plan and manage a fictitious hospitality business operated in a simulated dynamic business environment, created by HOTS, the world’s leading company in hospitality business management simulation software. The Business Games are sponsored by Febvre wines, Fáilte Ireland and Irish Hotels Federation.
Courtmacsherry
Everybody in Courtmacsherry and its wider hinterland were glued to the television last Saturday night to see Winning Streak, because among the group performing was Paddy Kelly of Woodlands, Courtmacsherry, who netted a grand sum of §35,000 on the game show. A support group of up to 30 people travelled by bus to the studio. Explaining the trip and proceedings, John Young of the Pier House told of the great reception that they got, especially since Paddy’s son Peter (of Brides by Franc) is so well known in the RTE studios. They returned back to Courtmacsherry in the small hours of Sunday morning. This has been a major achievement for Courtmacsherry, with two local men, Paddy O’Donovan and Paddy Kelly, appearing recently on this programme.
SPRING
As we enter the month of March, the birds are singing gaily, a reminder that spring is in the air, whether it’s rain or shine, frost or snow. It’s amazing that whatever the weather, the birds will always know when it’s the first of March, and even in a leap year, they will not start building their nests on February 29.
Parade
Fundraising for the Courtmacsherry St Patrick’s Day Parade is progressing at a rapid pace, and the annual church gate collection, which was taken up last weekend, was most encouraging. With just over a week to go, interest abounds about the Boston Police Band. The band, which will arrive on Tuesday, March 16, will perform at many venues throughout the parish before their departure on Sunday, March 21. Venues will include both masses in Courtmacsherry on St Patrick’s Day, Barryroe School, The Creamery Road, The Pier Head, and leading the St Vincent’s and Barryroe teams for their Intermediate league game under lights at Gaelic Park on Saturday night, March 20. This game is expected to be started by John Joe Fleming, who played football for Barryroe in his youth before emigrating to Boston, where he was to set up a prominent construction company.
Harriers
With the hunting season rapidly coming to a close, the Ibane Harriers enjoyed a great day’s hunting for their mid-week meet last Wednesday. Taking off from central Augha the hounds chased a fine dog fox up through Lislee and towards Ballycardeen. From here the fox took them down across the ‘Melling Road’, and as the bleating of the hounds could be heard all over the countryside in the stillness of the afternoon, the cunning fox led them a merry dance before going to ground in the valley. Another fox put up nearby kept the pack and pursuers going till evening before getting lost in the wood. This weekend the club members are going deep into O’Mathuna territory, as guests of the Castletownkenneigh club for a joint meet.
Camogie
The annual general meeting of the Barryroe Camogie Club was held on Monday night, February 1, with a large attendance of young girls of the parish present. In a review of the past year, while the club didn’t achieve any silverware, their players excelled in many grades and competitions up to Senior All-Ireland level. However, four of their more accomplished players achieved great honours at All-Ireland level. Emer White, Carol Dinneen and Ann-Marie Fleming played on the Cork Senior teams, while Emma Deasy played with the Cork Under-14 development squad that defeated Kilkenny in the final at Croke Park. The club had teams competing at all levels from Under-8 to Senior level. They welcomed back Cork and All-Ireland champion Jennifer O’Leary, who has been away on a business trip in Australia for the past two years, and her presence should be a great boost to both club and county. Officers elected: President, Mai Whelton; Chairperson, Ireneaus Moloney; Secretary, Lorraine Whelton; Assistant Secretary, Mary Cahalane; Treasurer, Siobhan Barry. Registeration for the club will be held on this Saturday, March 6, from 12 noon to 1pm in the Barryroe GAA Pavilion, and it is very important that all players and their parents attend, as important matters including insurance have to be discussed.
Events Off
Two very important events of local significance due to be held last Monday had to be postponed due to unforeseen circumstances. The Cork-Swansea Ferry MV Julia, due to start service on Monday, had to be put back to Friday due to some mechanical alterations, while nearer to home the Butlerstown Friendship Club had to postpone its meeting due to be held last Monday to a later date, as the hall was due for some renovations.
Table Quiz
The Barryroe Parents Association held a very successful table quiz at Barryroe National School on last Friday night. There was an extremely large turnout and the proceedings proved most enjoyable.
Beach By-Laws
The beach by-Laws announced recently have caused quite a stir throughout the locality. When restrictions include prohibiting the removal of seaweed from the strand, it’s really hitting below the belt. During the war years, seaweed was the most suitable forms of fertiliser for the production of potatoes and mangels, and the powers that be should be only too glad to see farmers and gardeners remove it from the strand. Also some people are enquiring if these restrictions will affect the future of the Courtmacsherry Strand Races, which have proved so popular over the past decade. Seemingly some people know little about the law of the sea, where a south-east gale can fill a strand with shingle, sand and seaweed overnight and a north-west gale can take it out again to beyond Land’s End.
Newsletter
The Barryroe Parish Assembly have organised a monthly newsletter and the first issue was available after masses last weekend. It touches on the activities of many of the organisations in the parish, and one of its objectives is to set up and organise an over-18 to 30 club. The assembly will endeavour to identify the needs of the community, e.g integration of new parishioners, support initiatives for elderly parishioners and youth of the parish and liturgy, etc.
Clonakilty
WITH Seachtain an Gaeilge running until Lá ’le Pádraig, all Gaelgóirí áitiúla and people with just a cúpla focail are invited to An Teach Beag ar an Domhnach, 14ú Márta, from 9pm onwards for a “Cúpla Focail Night”. The idea is to create an opportunity for people with any level of Gaeilge to come together in an informal social setting where they can converse comfortably with whatever few words they may have, gan aon brú orthu. Hopefully, a few Ceoltóirí will also be present on the night to liven the atmosphere. This is organised as an initiative by an individual, and not by any Irish language organisation, and is aimed at people who may be fluent, semi-fluent or as the title of the night suggests, may have only a “Cúpla Focail”. It is envisaged that perhaps the “Cúpla Focail Night” could become a regular feature on the second Sunday night of each month going forward, depending on the level of interest. Tá a lán daoine le Gaeilge timpeall Chloich na Coillte, agus beidh na h-oícheannta Cúpla Focail an-taithneamhach dóibh. Fáilte roimh gach duine agus is cuma faoi an méid Gaeilge atá agat. Muna bhfuil “cúpla focail” agat, tá a dhóthain agat! Tuilleadh eolas ó: 086-2202029.
FAIRTRADE AGM
Clonakilty Fairtrade AGM takes place this Thursday evening (4th) at 8pm in O’Donovan’s Hotel. And as Fairtrade Fortnight 2010 comes to a close on Sunday, the committee and their helpers are well pleased with last Saturday’s events to raise awareness of Fairtrade, when the town “went mad”! The group, along with many willing helpers from the broad community organised a Mad Hatters Street Parade and Tea Party. Coincidentally, the event was held on the same week that Hollywood announced the upcoming release of the latest “Alice and Wonderland” film, due to hit the big screens next week. From around 2pm last Saturday the Parish Centre was a hive of activity, as Alice arrived accompanied by the Mad Hatter, the March Hare, and Dormouse along with around 100 other creatures great and small who are normally children and their parents and guardians. They came dressed in the most imaginative costumes and had their faces painted, as the hour of three struck. Then, led by the Mad Hatter on fiddle, and Alice and Co. they made their way down the street, doing a circuit of the town centre streets before returning ton the Parish Centre, where the teapots were filled with Fairtrade Tea and delicious home baking and biscuits were consumed. Here, Clonakilty Fairtrade chairperson, Trevor Kingston thanked everyone for making the afternoon such an outstanding success, and invited them to the Fairtrade AGM on Thursday. Cindy Kingston, secretary read out the winners of the Fairtrade Schools Essay competition and also the overall winning entry. All the prizes are being presented just before the AGM this evening. Fairtrade Fortnight ends this Sunday and people are asked to make the Big Swap by choosing one Fairtrade item instead of a usual brand, which will make life better for Third World producers. Anyone interested in Clonakilty Fairtrade should e-mail clonakiltyfairtrade@gmail.com or phone Trevor on 086-3384863.
DRUGS AWARENESS
Information evening on drugs awareness in Ardfield-Rathbarry parish hall this Thursday. 4th, at 8.30pm. Parents and teenagers are welcome and admission is free.
WORLD DAY OF PRAYER
The annual World Day of Prayer will be celebrated this Friday 5th March at the Convent of Mercy McCurtain Hill, Clonakilty at 8 p.m. This year’s theme, which was prepared by the women of Cameroon is ‘Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.’ This is an ecumenical service and all are welcome.
SINN FÉIN
Two delegates, along with a number of non-voting members of the Vol. Martin Doherty Sinn Féin Cumann, Clonakilty, will attend the party’s Árd Fheis this weekend in Dublin. With over 150 motions for debate, it will prove to be an interesting weekend. RTÉ will broadcast the debates on Saturday morning between 11am and 1pm, as well as the address by party President, Gerry Adams, M.P. at 8.30pm also on Saturday evening. The Clár and further information is available at www.sinnfein.ie
AIRPORT SINGERS
The Cork Airport Singers will perform in Clonakilty Community Hall this Sunday, March 7, at 3pm, to help the local brass band raise funds for two new baritones. The Airport Choir has travelled extensively throughout Ireland and has performed in the UK, France and Spain and has a wide-ranging repertoire, which includes pieces from the negro spiritual, classical, religious, traditional, pop and light operatic genres. Ann Healy-Mayes is the conductor of the Cork Airport Singers. The choir’s accompanist is Ann Mannix, who is also a graduate of UCC. St Patrick’s Brass Band is looking forward to performing alongside this accomplished choir for a wonderful evening of brass and choral numbers. Tickets are on sale at Hickey’s Music Shop, Clonakilty, and at the door on the day. Even in these recessionary times, the organizers say, you won’t get better value with a whole afternoon’s entertainment for €10!
GALLEY FLASH
2010 marks the 25th anniversary of Ardfield-Rathbarry (The Galley Flash) Rowing Club. To mark the occasion a number of events are planned during the coming year. The first of these takes place next Sunday, 7th, with the club hosting an open day in Rathbarry Hall. The club has extended an invitation to everyone, young and old, to view the impressive display of silverware won at local, county and All-Ireland level during 2009 and the collection of memorabilia accumulated throughout the past quarter-century. Visitors may talk to the members, rowers and officers of the club hear the stories of years gone by, as well the successes of recent years. Whether you are interested in taking up the sport or want learn more about the club that has brought back 13 All-Ireland titles to the parish since 2000, or if you just would like to join them for a cup of tea, all are welcome. The hall will be open from directly after 10am Mass until 3pm.
eSKILLS WEEK
West Cork Business and Computer Training is supporting eskills-week.ec.europa.eu /web/guest/about European e-Skills Week 2010 – by highlighting the importance of e-skills for the future of Europe. This pan-European awareness-raising campaign promotes e-skills to the general public, students, young professionals and SME’s, and stresses the vast range of opportunities that ICT-related jobs present to encourage greater uptake of ICT studies and careers. The campaign spans 20 European countries and will reach over 300,000 people. West Cork Business and Computer Training Ltd, Kent Street, Clonakilty, will host an open night this Friday, 5th, at 8.30.pm to promote the event. Certificates will be presented to recipients who missed previous awards nights. For those interested in pursuing a course at the centre, details of all courses on offer will be available. A computer science student will be present to discuss his course with any interested teenagers and an ICT consultant will be available to discuss a career in ICT.
DUNMORE GOLF
Ladies’ results from Dunmore Golf Club: Ann O'Sullivan's Prize: 1st Kay McCarthy (21) 34 pts. Gross Noreen Fleming (14) 21 pts. Section A: 1st Mary O'Donovan B (24) 32 pts. 2nd Ann O'Higgins (18) 30 pts. Section B: 1st Brenda O'Crowley (26) 32 pts. 2nd Catherine Joyce (32) 26 pts. Fixtures: Round 3 of Eurospar Spring League continues until Wednesday, March 10. Gents’ results: B Kirby Footwear Winter League standings after Round 3 – Team 18, 48 pts; Team 19, 47 pts; Team 2, 44 pts; Team 13, 43 pts; Team 14, 41 pts; Team 7, 40 pts; Team 8, 39 pts; Team 17, 39 pts; Team 12, 28 pts; Team 3, 27 pts. Fixtures: Saturday and Sunday, March 6 and 7, Winter League Round 4 – timesheet 023-8835091.
MOSAIC FELLOWSHIP
‘MOSAIC’ will take place on this Sunday, 7th, in the Parochial Hall, Clonakilty. Games and crafts begin at 5pm. All-age worship service is at 5.30pm and supper will be served after the service. All are welcome for fun and fellowship for all the family. Please note that children must be accompanied by an adult.
CARDIAC SUPPORT
The monthly meeting of the Clonakilty Cardiac Support Group will take place at the Emmet Hotel, Clonakilty next Wednesday, 10th, at 8.30pm. The guest speaker will be Debra Davies, UKCP, IBECPT, holistic life coach, Clonakilty, who will touch on stress management and making positive life changes. The meeting is open to and welcomes people who have had a cardiac event such as angina, a heart attack, had angioplasty with or with out stents inserted, or who have had cardiac surgery (by-pass surgery, mitral valve surgery, etc.). It is an opportunity to share experiences, fear and anxieties in a confidential setting. It is also a source of contact for people waiting for heart surgery. For information, contact Catherine Cahalane, cardiovascular public health nurse, HSE, on 086-7871552.
COMPUTER SOCIETY
On Thursday, February 25, West Cork Computer Society had a meeting about broadband. Practically everyone present was able to contribute their own personal experience of broadband. It was a much more inter-active meeting, rather than a straight ‘lecture-type’ meeting like the first couple of meetings. Companies such as Vodafone, O2, Rapid, Éircom and BT were discussed. Some issues regarding security around interior wireless networks were also covered. After the meeting, a few gathered in the bar to discuss further IT issues - it’s surprising what one can learn down there - home networking and testing your firewall were some of the issues thrashed out in the bar! At our next meeting, on March 11, they will be taking a look at spreadsheets. West Cork Computer Society meets on the second and fourth Thursdays in the month in O’Donovan’s Hotel at 8pm. Admission and tea / coffee is €7.
REJOICING VOICES
There will be a concert in Sacred Heart Church, Darrara, Clonakilty, on Saturday March 13, at 8.30pm. Proceeds from this concert will go to Brú Columbanus and West Cork Rapid Response. Featured at this event will be Joanne Walsh, soprano; Emma Nash, soprano, and Douglas Harmonia Singers, all accompanied on piano by Annabel Adams. Clonakilty soprano, Joanne Walsh is a regular performer and a Masters Student at the Cork School of Music. She is thrilled to invite her friends to raise money for these two important charities. Brú Columbanus, based in Wilton, Cork, which provides ‘home-from-home’ accommodation for relatives of seriously-ill patients in Cork hospitals. West Cork Rapid Response is a locally-based voluntary group working in partnership with, and supporting the existing HSE medical emergency services with a rapid response vehicle based in, and servicing all of, West Cork. The vehicle contains all the necessary life saving equipment, just like a mobile A & E Department. The programme for the evening promises great variety, ranging from opera to light and Irish favourites. Tickets are €10 and are available in O’Donovan’s Hotel, Clonakilty, or at the door on the night. Bring a cushion!
SCHOOL ENROLMENT
Junior infant enrolment days take place at St Joseph’s Girls’ Primary School on Thursday 18th and Friday, March 19. The principal and junior infants teacher will be delighted to meet parents and children between 1.30 and 2.30 p.m. Please bring your child’s PPS number and a copy of the birth certificate, if interested in enrolling.
CLON MACRA
Clonakilty Macra won the Cork County round of the Amateur Drama competition, which took place last weekend in Rossmore Theatre. Five teams took part – Clonakilty, Glanmire, Carrigaline, Ballinascarthy and Knockavilla. Ger O’Donovan, Karen McCarthy, John O’Leary, Declan McCarthy and Mary O’Donovan represented Clonakilty with the play ‘Mantrap,’ written by Paul Reakes and performed with the kind permission of the Samuel L French Company. The action which was held on the Saturday and Sunday nights was of a very high standard and the winners were announced on the Sunday night. Neighbours Ballinascarthy were placed second while Carrigaline were third and Knockraha were fourth. As well as taking top place, the Best Actress award also went to Clonakilty’s Karen McCarthy. The next stage of the competition is the national semi-final, which will take place on March 20. The venue has not yet been decided. The cast thanked producer Sean Ronan, backstage Pádraig Griffin, Edel Ronan, Mairead Cullinane, Keith Buttimer and Theresa O’Leary and, offstage, Margy McCarthy, Michael O’Donovan and Geoff Wycherley.
TOASTMASTERS
The many absent members were compensated by the presence of a brand new Clonakilty Toastmaster, Marie Henson. With all club business dealt with president Nick Smith handed over to Pat Barry, who was Toastmaster for the evening. The latter then introduced Grant March to deliver some topics. These ranged from ‘biggest cooking achievement’, choosing a new Ministerial position, favourite books and the demise of the letter. After some lively opinions and amusing answers it was time for the speeches. Norma Hughes spoke about ‘The Man behind the Myth’, who turned out to be Lord Kitchener, the iconic image from recruitment posters during world war one. Norma delivered a fascinating insight into a man whose message ultimately sent millions to their death. Following on was Pádraig O’Mahoney with a speech entitled ‘What if?’ Using humour he gave scenarios based on the premise that animals could talk, ending with a variety of environmental issues, which could be tackled by everyone to make a difference. After refreshments Rosemary Dixon spoke about assisted suicide. The quote from Hamlet, ‘To be or not to be’, led into a sombre but insightful look at the area of euthanasia. Rosemary tackled the sensitive subject very thoroughly, giving all viewpoints and providing plenty of food for thought. The last speaker of the night was Deirdre McInerney who questioned ‘How do you know you’re real?’ Beautifully written and presented, Deirdre insisted that everyone was both dead and ghosts, suggesting that the ‘truth will set you free’. General evaluator, Liam Fleming, got the timings from Sandra O’Hagan and called on the individual evaluators to come to the lectern. Joe McSweeney, John O’Reilly, Sean Ahern and Pablo Alvarez all gave concise and helpful advice to the speakers. Gavels were awarded to Pádraig for completing his Competent Communicator manual and Topics master Grant. The bar beckoned and there was plenty to talk about. Not least the by-laws proposed by Cork County Council relating to beaches, the details of which were handed to a member by O’Donovan’s staff before the meeting started. Could be another speech in the offing?!
CoACTION
Clonakilty CoAction is seeking new members for the branch this year. Meetings take place at The Miles Clonakilty on the third Monday of each month at 8.30 pm. Volunteers or anyone interested in the field of support for children and adults with intellectual difficulties would be made welcome at the meetings. Currently, they are asking that people search for old Irish coins and notes or any foreign currency they may have and to use this as a donation to CoAction. Money can be placed into the collection boxes around town or given directly to any committee member. Telephone Jean Buttimer on 023-8838056 or e-mail ejbuttimer@gmail.com for more information.
CEB LOTTERY
Results of West Cork Model Railway Village-CEB Lottery for Thursday, February 25: Jackpot was €4,600 – no winner. Numbers drawn were 5, 12, 16 and 17. ‘Lucky dip’ winners of €50 each were CBS, Pearse Street; Margaret Feen, Ardcarrig, Clonakilty, and Bushmount. Next draw is on this Thursday, March 4, for a jackpot of €4,750.
HOSFORD’S EXHIBITION
Michael Magee’s extensive art exhibition, entitled “Treasures of West Cork,” has just opened at the Blue Geranium Café at Hosfords Geranium and Garden Centre Ltd. An extensive range of captivating seascapes and landscapes, depicting the fine scenery of West Cork, is on display. These paintings make ideal gifts for weddings, anniversaries, house-warmings, etc. They would make an ideal memento of a visit to West Cork for any visitor to the region.
CLON AFC
A very disappointing weekend for Clon AFC was brightened only by the performance of the under-12s who recorded a resounding 8-0 win over Sullane. Stand-out player was Sean McEvoy who scored five goals. Elsewhere things were not positive for the club’s other teams. The ‘A’ team, visitors to Bunratty United in the quarter-finals of the Beamish Cup, suffered a heavy 3-0 defeat. This result compounded the disappointing campaign the side has suffered this season, but clears their attention for the relegation battle they now face in the league. At this stage, maintaining their Premier Division status will be considered a success. The ‘B’ team was again beaten on Sunday, going down by a score of 4-1. On Saturday, Ballyvackey was host to an enthralling match between the under-12 youths and Drinagh, beaten only in the last five minutes with the last goal of a game, which could have easily gone either way, with the final score ending at 2-3.
LYRE UNDER-AGE
Lyre visited Inchigeela on Saturday 28th to play Leeside in the quarter-final of the cup. It was a beautiful afternoon and the pitch was in good condition for the game. Though Leeside are in a division lower than Lyre it certainly didn’t show in the first half. Lyre had the better earlier chances, but it was the home side that took the lead. With their confidence up, they attacked again hitting the post and were unfortunate to end the first half with just a one-goal lead. The second half was a different story altogether, with Lyre converting their chances in front of goal, none more so than Jonathon Deasy, who scored a ‘hat-trick.’ Darren Santry got two more, one of which was a fabulous free kick to give Lyre an overall 5-1 victory. It was an excellent team performance and particular mention went to Niall O’Sullivan in goal and Kevin Quinn, who showed great stamina in midfield. Lyre under-16s crashed out of the West Cork Cup at the quarter-final stage in Lyre on Saturday last, when they were beaten 2-1 by Bay Rovers. Lyre went ahead after 25 minutes, when Shane O’Donovan latched on to a great through ball from Gearóid Barry and slotted it past the keeper. However Bay Rovers equalised just after half time and scored what proved to be the winner halfway through the second half. Lyre tried hard to force extra time, but were unable to do so and Bay Rovers deservedly clinched a spot in the semi-final. This was a disappointing performance from the home side and a major improvement is needed if they are to maintain their challenge for the under-16 league title.
LISELANE GOLF
February 27, captains’ drive-in fourball result: 1st Richard Fitton, Roy Stone, Elaine Burke, Bernice Cremin; 2nd David Hayes, Sarah Lane, Marie Makay, Sinead Halloran; 3rd Pat Coughlan, Ken Cooke, Simmi Goyal, Anne Lynch. Thanks went to all who brought refreshments, etc, to the captains’ drive-in and also to the staff at the Henry Ford Tavern for accommodating the players. Fixtures: Saturday and Sunday. March 6 and 7, competition sponsored by Fernhill House Hotel.
LADIES’ FOOTBALL
Clonakilty ladies’ footballers are gearing up for the new season and training has started for under-14s as their campaign will begin shortly. With large numbers, Clon will be fielding two teams at this grade. The minor girls are down to play Kinsale in the 2010 West Cork final, which it is hoped will be played on Sunday 7th, at a venue to be decided. Clon juniors and seniors will be kicking off their leagues shortly, as well. Any girl or lady who wants to play football should contact Mary on 087-1323053 or Donal on 086-8303623. Upcoming events include the under-age disco, which will be fully supervised and happening sometime in March.
FORÓIGE
On Friday, February 26, Clonakilty Foróige travelled to Riverstick for the disco and had a great night. Forty-two children and five leaders were in attendance. Next Friday, there will be a quiz night at the Parish Centre, where the two winning teams will go forward to the West Cork finals. Some members are helping in the setting up of a website for the local parish, where information about the locality will be given out. There are now 55 registered members in Foróige and, if you are aged between 12 and 15 you can go on the waiting list to join up. This is a great outlet for children on a Friday night from 8 to 9.30pm and is fully supervised. Other events coming are the talent heats and the finals of the indoor soccer. Don’t forget to keep texting for the AIB better Ireland awards, text CLONK A to 51303 or go online at www.betterireland.ie select Clonakilty and choose your group. Clonakilty Youth Café hopes to have its planning application in this week and, all going well, will be up and running in the not-too-distant future.
Carrigaline
A special arts exhibition will take place in the Stables Bar, Carrigaline, on next Monday night, March 8, at 8pm to mark the launch of the Carrigaline Arts Network interactive site carrigalineartsnetwork.ning.co. Those who are involved or interested in the arts, crafts and culture in the greater Carrigaline area are invited and welcome to attend. CAN, supported by the Arts Department of Cork County Council, was set up to promote the arts, crafts and culture in Carrigaline and the adjoining parishes. One of the main aims of CAN was to campaign for a 21st century Cultural Centre for Carrigaline. All interested groups or individuals are invited to log on to carrigalineartsnetwork.ning.com.
FATAL CRASH
21-year-old Stephen Allen, Calderwood, Douglas, was killed when the car he was driving crashed into a wall at the top of Carr’s Hill just before 3am on Monday morning last. He was travelling on the top of Carr’s Hill towards Carrigaline when the car left the road and crashed into O’Days boundary wall. A very popular young man, Stephen studied at the National Maritime College in Ringaskiddy where he graduated with a degree in Nautical Science on February 19. His body was removed to Cork University Hospital where a post-mortem was carried out. Another young man who was a passenger in the car is recovering in hospital. A number of crashes have occurred over the years on the top of Carr’s Hill. The road was closed to traffic on Monday morning and diversions were put in place to cater for heavy traffic flow in both directions. Cremation took place after Requiem Mass in St Columba’s Church, Douglas. He will be very sadly missed by his parents Ritchie and Mary (nee Mangan), his sister Judy, grandparents, uncles, aunts, cousins, relatives and friends to whom widespread sympathy is extended.
SET DANCE FESTIVAL
Three céilís and four workshops, a feast of the best of traditional Irish music and dancing, is on the cards next weekend in the Carrigaline GAA Pavilion for the annual Set Dance Workshop Festival weekend. On Friday 12th Suzanne Leahy from County Clare is coming back again this year to teach Sean-nós steps from 8pm to 9.30pm. Alan Finn and the 10-piece Five Counties Céilí Band are the big attraction for the Céilí Mór from 10pm to 1am. The set dance workshops with internationally renowned tutors Pádraig and Róisín McEneaney start on Saturday morning from 10.30am to 1pm and from 2.30pm to 5pm and on Sunday from 11am to 1pm. The famous Dublin Brian Ború Céilí Band play for the Saturday night Céilí Mór from 9.30pm to 1.30am. The Kilfenora-based Four Courts Céilí Band are the big attraction for a Sunday afternoon céilí from 2.30pm to 5.30pm.
U21 B SW FOOTBALL
Carrigaline took the bragging rights over near-neighbours Tracton in last Sunday’s decider. The game was in the melting pot until CJ O’Sullivan found the net as the game looked to be heading for extra time. The game was keenly contested throughout, as Tracton recovered from an expertly taken goal from livewire D O’Keeffe in the opening quarter. Carrig went into the break 1-4 to 0-3 up. Tracton came out of the traps all guns blazing in the second period and tagged on four points without reply to draw level. Carrig and Tracton swapped scores as D Manley two frees kept Carrig in the hunt. CJ O’Sullivan’s goal was followed by a C Sisk point to leave Carrig looking forward to a county run later in the year. Carrigaline: J O’Reilly, C Allen, M Dwane, E Horgan, C Malone, CJ O’Sullivan, J McCarthy, D Spillane, B Twomey, K Aherne (c), S O Gorman, C Sisk, D O’Keeffe. Scorers: D O’Keeffe 1-1, CJ O’Sullivan 1-0, C Sisk 0-2, S O’Gorman 0.2 (f), D Manley 0-2 (f), D Spillane 0-1.
GAA FIXTURES
The Intermediate Football League: Canovee v Carrigaline takes place on Saturday, March 6, at 3 pm. Premier Minor Football League: Carrigtwohill v Carrigaline takes place next Sunday 7th at a venue to be confirmed.
DINNER DANCE
Some tickets for the GAA dinner dance celebrating County win next Saturday are still available at €25. Please check club noticeboards for further details.
UNDER-AGE GAA
The under-13 and under-14 footballers were in action in the City Division leagues last weekend. The under-14s recorded a great win over SE rivals Valley Rovers while the under-13 teams enjoyed mixed fortunes, with Carrig Buí having an easy win over Glanmire and Carrig Gorm going down narrowly to Douglas (1-3 to 0-7). The two under-12 football teams get their campaigns under way this coming weekend. Carrig Buí are at home to Na Piarsaigh at 2pm and Gorm are at home to Douglas Glas at 4pm. Registration Day for the Street League section (under-5 to under-10) will take place on Saturday next, March 6, between 10.30am and 12 noon.
CITY U14 FOOTBALL
Carrigaline 3-12, Valley Rovers 0-7. The under-14 footballers continued their winning run with a fine victory over Valley Rovers at Carrigaline on Saturday last. The opening half was closely contested and a goal just before the interval by Daniel O’Reilly helped Carrig into a 1-4 to 0-4 lead. In the second half Carrig upped it a gear and a second goal by Daniel and another by Alex Alabi plus some excellent point-scoring by Matthew O’Reilly gave Carrig a well-deserved win. Carrig scorers: Matthew O’Reilly 0-9, Daniel O’Reilly 2-0, Alex Alabi 1-0, Brian Coakley, Eoin O’Connor, Darragh Greally 0-1 each. Next up for the under-14s is a visit to Trabeg to take on Nemo Rangers on Saturday next at 3pm.
CITY U13 FOOTBALL
Carrig Gorm took on Douglas Glas at home on Friday last at 7pm and following a close contest the visitors prevailed by the narrowest of margins, 0-7 to 1-3. Carrig Buí were in action at home to Glanmire on Saturday last and recorded an easy victory with a very good team display. Both teams are in action this Saturday; Gorm home to Douglas Dubh at 4.30pm and Buí away to Ballincollig at 2.30pm
COMMUNITY SCHOOL
Carrigaline Community School students had a busy mid-term break recently. Forty-eight students and six teachers took part in a ski trip to the slopes of Northern Italy. Meanwhile a group of 19 CCS students hosted their exchange partners from Fairport High School in New York. Fairport students braved the New York snow and arrived to a warm reception in Carrigaline homes, where they remained for the week. US students sampled life in Carrigaline and also attended school at CCS on Monday last. Meanwhile many State examination students attended a supervised study programme held at CCS throughout the mid-term break. The school wished them well in their studies in the important weeks ahead.
ACTIVE RETIRED
Last Thursday a large gathering of the Carrigaline Active Retired enjoyed half an hour of ‘Go For Life’ exercises with Ann O’Brien in the Parish Centre. Then Community Garda Damien Craven, Sergeant Pat Murphy, and Fire Officer Neil Drievers treated the group to a very interesting and instructive talk on security and safety in the home. Then all enjoyed a welcome cup of tea and a chat. The CARA members were out for the day and headed off by coach from the Bandroom for Cork City where they took in an evening meal and enjoyed Menopause the Musical in the Opera House. This week John Cummins of the Stonewall Garden Centre will give a talk on spring and summer planting and show the members some good examples in the church grounds. Next week a coach load of CARA members are off to Castlebar for a four-day spring break from Monday to Thursday, March 8 to 11. CARA will take part in the St Patrick’s Day parade in Carrigaline again this year. New members and new ideas welcome. Anyone who is over 50 years of age and is retired is invited and welcome to join. For further information contact Pat 0863871108 or Noreen 087 130 1122.
DEATHS
The death of Joan Mabel de Costobadie (nee Simpson), Kilnagleary, Carrigaline, took place after a brief illness and in her 86th year. Mother of James and Hillary, much-loved aunt of Liz, sister of Helen and Priscilla, a grandmother and a great-grandmother, she will be sadly missed. Service took place at the Island Crematorium, Ringaskiddy. Mrs Grace Bryan (nee Beamish), Hill Farm, Fountainstown, died recently at the residence of her daugher Evelyn at Ballingarry. Mrs Bryan was in her 95th year. She will be sadly missed by her loving family Alec, Edwin, Adeline, Evelyn and Gordon, sons-in-law, daughter-in-law, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, sister Dorothy and sisters-in-law. She was buried in St Patrick’s Cemetery, Nohoval, after service at Holy Trinity Church, Crosshaven. The death took place at Marymount Hospice recently of Mort Duggan, Nova Court, Carrigaline. A native of Meelin he lived and worked in England for years and came to live in Carrigaline on his retirement. His wife Sheila was a very popular member of the staff of Barry Collins’ SuperValu for a number of years. He will be sadly missed by his wife Sheila (nee O’Flynn) sons Charlie and Paul, grandsons Joseph and Daniel, brothers Paddy, Jim, Con and Ray, sisters Mary, Sr. Consilia, Catherine, Noreen and Margaret, daughter-in-law, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends. He was buried in Clonfert cemetery after Requiem Mass in St. Joseph’s Church, Meelin.
GAA LOTTO
The GAA members’ weekly draw has now reached a jackpot of €7,200 because there was no winner of this week’s jackpot of €7,000. The winning numbers were 6, 9, 22 and 23. The €100 winner was: Ann O’Leary c/o Tommy O’Leary. The €20 winners were: Michael Meaney c/o Club, Cathy Deasy c/o Cards, E. Noonan and Jane O’Mahony c/o Finbarr O’Leary and Niamh O’Leary c/o Tommy O’Leary.
GYMNASTIC CLUB
Recently 79 gymnasts from Carrigaline Gymnastic Club competed in an invitational competition hosted by Douglas Gym. Gymnasts as young as five participated for the experience and enjoyment of a gymnastics competition. Members would never have guessed how successful the club is without competition. Sixty-four Carrigaline gymnasts came home with individual and team medals. In some events the Carrigaline teams were against 10-12 other teams and everyone performed so well. Carrigaline Gymnastics has been going strong for 25 years and the success is still rising. It is only now though that they have a wealth of talented gymnasts that are performing at a very high standard. The gym is running six days a week and the squad gymnasts are getting better and better under the watchful eye of their squad coaches Colm and Jamie O’Toole.
TOUR TO FATIMA
There is a tour to Fatima and the Lisbon Coast being organised from Carrigaline in August this year. The tour will leave on Monday, August 9, and will return on Monday 16th. For further information please phone 437 3316 for all the details.
SENIOR CITIZENS
The Carrigaline Senior Citizens are going on their Spring Break to Galway from April 27 to 30, at a price of €290. The bus will leave from the Carrigaline Court Hotel. Names and deposits of €80 to be handed into the Post Office before April 2.
MACRA ON C103
To mark their 50th year Carrigaline Macra will take part in Scoraiochting House with Bob Jennings on C103FM from 7pm to 8pm this Sunday, March 7. Taking part will be current Chairman, David O’Leary, PRO Carmel O’Meara, Seandún Chairman Alan Jagoe, Founding Chairman Peter Thompson, Founding Secretary Sean Coveney, Founding Treasurer Dermot O’Leary and Barry Cogan. Musical items on the show will be provided by Dan Twomey, Mark Slade, Pat Cooney, Michael O’Flynn, Ferdia Ó Corragáin, Sinéad and Edel Collins and Laura Buckley and Conor Ross.
ROAD CLOSED
The main Carrigaline to Minane Bridge road was closed on Tuesday and Wednesday this week as the Cork County Council resurfaces part of the road, which was damaged by the winter flooding. The affected stretches of road, which were reconstructed earlier, could not be hot surfaced until now due to the temperature being too low.
AIFREANN GAELACH
The monthly Aifreann Gaelach will be celebrated at 10am in the Church of Our Lady and St John on Sunday next, March 14. Mass leaflets and hymn sheets as Gaeilge are available for all who wish to use them.
WIDENING CHURCH HILL
After two years of an unnecessary dispute between Eircom and Cork County Council, work on the completion of the road widening there has commenced. Ducting is being laid at present to carry Eircom cabling and then the way is cleared to finish the road-widening job, which was started two years ago.
ST PATRICK’S PARADE
The final touches are being put in place for this year’s St Patrick’s Day parade. All the regular participants are taking part again this year. It promises to be a colourful event and a great family spectacle. Floats are to assemble in the Co-op car park from 11am to be ready for the start at 12.30pm.
TIDY TOWNS
All the schools in Carrigaline have been visited by Maura Allen of Tidy Towns, promoting the annual Anti-Litter Poster Competition. A special meeting of Tidy Towns in scheduled for Carrigaline Court this Saturday at 3pm to plan the spring and summer programme and to arrange the 2010 launch date. New members are always welcome – some may wish to join the committee, others may wish to help with litter control and to help with flowerbeds or sponsor a project. For further information contact Maura Allen 437 2479.
Beara & District
THE Castletownbere Business and Development Association Committee has an extended an invitation to all to attend an AGM in the Forge Club on Tuesday, March 9, at 9pm sharp. Agenda will include the treasurer’s report, proposed changes to Festival Directory, June and August Festival, St. Patrick’s Day Parade, website, election of officers and any other business. This is a forum to have a say on how the Association is representing the business people of the town. The committee encourages others, who may not be in business but who would like to be involved in community matters, to attend and get involved.
Adrigole GAA Draw
The club draw results are as follows: €200, Lisa and Gay Sheridan, Ferbane, Co. Offaly; €80, Tommy O’Sullivan, Trafrask; €40, John O’Shea, Bawn; €40 John Purcell, Ballincollig; €40 Vincent Goggin, Derrincorrin; €40 Jim Blake, Cappanaparka.
Blood Pressure Clinic
There will be a Blood Pressure Clinic held at the Castletownbere Day Care Centre on Tuesday, March 9, from 2 to 4pm. It is important for people of all ages to have their blood pressure checked on a regular basis. All are welcome to attend this free, confidential service being offered by the Health Service Executive (South) and the local Public Health Nurse. The Blood Pressure Clinic will be held on the second Tuesday of every second month from 2pm to 4pm. Please note the change of venue, as the Health Centre is currently being renovated.
Heritage Centre
There will be a public meeting in the Heritage Centre at 2pm on Wednesday, March 10, to discuss fundraising ideas for earthquake victims in Haiti and Chile. A Spring Fair will be held on March 21 from 12pm – this is a family day and everyone is welcome. Anyone interested in any of the many courses on offer, please contact Theresa Hobbs Project Officer, or Geraldine O’Sullivan Project Administrator, Bere Island Heritage Centre. Tel: 027 75956 or email: biheritage@gmail.com.
President to Visit
Bere Island Heritage Centre have been given the final agreed date for their official opening day as Saturday, May 29. They are very proud and delighted to announce that an Uachtarán Mary McAleese will be flying in by helicopter that morning to officiate the opening of the centre. They will build a day of fun and events around the opening and hope that all will be able to join them.
Scenic Landscape committee
The Special Scenic Landscape Committee has announced that a protest will take place next Monday morning at 10.30am outside County Hall in Cork City. This protest is to highlight the problems that many West Cork and indeed Cork County residents face when trying to secure planning permission for one-off houses in rural settings. The committee hopes for as much support as possible on the morning.
Recent Deaths
The community was saddened by the unexpected death of Mrs. Sheila O’Shea, which took place at her residence West End, Castletownbere, on Monday, February 15. Nee O’Sullivan (Rua), she was a native of Cahirkeem, Eyeries, and worked for over 40 years in MacCarthy’s Bar, The Square, up to her retirement a few years ago. Since then she continued to work several hours a week part time. She was very popular and respected by all including the bars customers. She is survived by her husband Donal, sons Denis and Don, daughters Catherine Anne and Mary, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, grandchildren, brothers, sisters, nephews, nieces and many relatives to whom sympathy is extended. The removal and funeral was largely attended. Requiem Mass in the Church of the Sacred Heart was celebrated by Canon Gearoid Walsh PP, assisted by Fr. Eamonn Mullvihill, Eyeries PP, with internment in Droum Cemetery. Sympathy is extended to Mrs. Mary O’Regan, West End, Castletownbere, and Mrs. Elizabeth O’Regan, Toormoore, Castletownbere, on the recent death of their mother Mrs. Elizabeth O’Sullivan, Lauragh. The death also took place recently of Mrs. Mary O’Sullivan-Greene, Filane, Castletownbere. She was the wife of the late Con O’Sullivan-Greene, who predeceased her some years ago. She is survived by her brother Ger, sister-in-law, nephews, nieces and relatives. Following Requiem Mass on Saturday the funeral took place to Droum Cemetery.
Beara GAA
Castletownbere continued their good start to the season by recording their fifth consecutive win in as many weeks with a hard-earned victory over Ballydesmond in the Division 4 Football League at Castletownbere on Sunday last. Ballydesmond led by 1-2 to 0-4 at the interval, the goal coming from a penalty midway through the half. For the second week running, Sean O’Regan was the hero of the hour with a point from play with the last kick of the game to give the Castletownbere team victory on a score of 0-8 to 1-4. Castletownbere continue their league programme with a home game against Aghabullogue this Sunday. Adrigole have a home game against Macroom in Division 3. In Division 2 of the league, Beara travelled to Mallow on Friday where they lost the game. The final score was Mallow 0-8, Beara 0-7. In the South West Under-16 Football League, Urhan had a good win over Gabriel Rangers on a final score of 2-14 to 1-9. In the South West Junior Football League, Castletownbere are away to Skibbereen under lights this Friday night.
BORD NA NOG
The new season got off to an early start with Urhan U16s travelling to Ballydehob to play Gabriel Og. Despite the bitterly cold wind it was bright and sunny and both teams played some fine football. Final score: 2-12 to 1-9. Next week is a home game versus Ahan Gaels in Eyeries at 11.30 on next Sunday, March 7.
LADIES FOOTBALL
The Beara Ladies Football club thanked everyone who supported their recent fundraising draw for tickets to see Ondine in Castletownbere. Winners: Leanne Harrington, Derrivore, Eyeries; Pauline Harrington, Eyeries; John O’Connor, c/o Beara Community School; Gemma Hunt, Bere Island; David O’Sullivan-Greene, Filane; Ann Black, Seapoint Lodge; Mary Power, Coulaghard; Paudie B. O’Sullivan, Cahermore; Vincent O’Sullivan, Castletownbere; Peggy Harrington, Goulane, Eyeries; John O’Shea, Ardgroom Post Office; Mary T. O’Sullivan, Allihies; Kevin O’Neill, Allihies; Mary O’Sullivan, Allihies; Donagh O’Connor, Droum; Cathy Harrington, Jack Patrick’s; Donal Healy, Finaha; John O’Donoghue, Eyeries; Pauline O’Sullivan, Faha, Adrigole; Owen Owenie O’Sullivan; John Joe O’Sullivan, Faha, Adrigole; Joe Rua, Ballydonegan; Matt Padwick, Garranes; Aoife Murphy, Cahirkeem; Marie Carey, Adrigole. Beara Ladies soccer team secured a place in the cup final by virtue of a 1-0 win over Knockavilla on Sunday. Ciara Murphy was the goal-scorer. Team: Laura O’Sullivan, Caitriona Murphy, Helen Murphy, Marie Murphy, Ann Marie Roberti, Fiona O’Sullivan, Claire Power, Bernadette O’Sullivan, Karen O’Sullivan, Ciara Murphy, Christine O’Sullivan, Sabrina Murphy, Carol Hurley, Sharon Martin-Sullivan and Geraldine O’Sullivan.
Friends Forever
The Friends Forever Childcare group’s directors and present committee extended sincere thanks to the Health Service Executive (South) for grant aiding the group since foundation, especially Margaret O’Donovan and Bridin Ashe for their tremendous support and guidance also Helen O’Driscoll and Sorcha Ni Chrualaoich of the County Childcare Committee; Tommy Power and Brian O’Sullivan of FÁS, The Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform under the Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme and the Office of the Minister for Children under the National Childcare Investment Programme. Sincere thanks also went to The National Lottery, AIB Better Ireland Awards, The Ireland Fund and Clar, all of whom grant aided equipment over the years, as well as, West Cork Enterprise Board who grant aided start-up wages for one nursery staff. The assistance of all the above helped the group greatly to survive and develop towards providing quality community childcare and pre-school education. Without financial support the group would not have been able to provide accessible and affordable pre-school education and childcare in the community. Appreciation also went to local politicians Noel Harrington, Danny Crowley, Paddy Sheehan, Denis O’Donovan, Christy O’Sullivan and John O’Donoghue, all of whom responded to pleas of help on many an occasion when progress was frustratingly halted due to one form of red tape or another. The Friends Forever Childcare also thanked the trustees of Beara Community School, Barry O’Brien of the VEC and the Sisters of Mercy, with whom the group lease the site. Principals Syl Barrett and Mary O’Sullivan, along with the school boards of management, were thanked for their support and involvement. The Tile Shop generously donated enough tiles to cover all the windowsills of the new building. (Due to increased insulation building requirements, the walls became much thicker than planned, giving deep window sills.) Shellfish De La Mer kindly donated an aquarium, which is of great interest to the children. The Beara Parent and Toddler Group is celebrating its 21st year in existence this year. They recently had their first session in the fabulous new Forever Friends premises, West End, Castletownbere. The children were delighted with the bright new facilities and toys and great fun was had by all. New parents and children are always welcome and the group meets every Tuesday of the school term, from 10.30 to 12pm.
Bantry
BANTRY Hospice Project is running a snooker exhibition between Dennis Taylor and Steve Davis in the Maritime Hotel, Bantry on Tuesday, March 16, at 8pm. VIP tickets will cost €50, while standard tickets are €25. Tickets are available from Rowa Pharmaceuticals Ltd on 027-50077 and the Maritime Hotel on 027-54700. All proceeds are in aid of the Bantry Hospice project.
IRISH SOCIAL HOUR
Bantry Library is celebrating Seachtain na Gaeilge in March with the local branch of Conradh na Gaeilge hosting an “Irish Social Hour” on Wednesday next, March 10th at 11 a.m. This session will consist of music, songs, stories, recitations and mini sketches in Irish. Admission is free. Séisiún Gaelach ina mbeidh ceol, amhránaíocht, sceitsí grinn beaga, scéalta agus aithriseoracht - timpeall uair a’ chloig ar fhaid ó 11 a.m. go meánlae Márta 10 é á cur i láthair ag baill Chonradh na Gaeilge, Beanntraí, sa Leabharlann i mBeanntraí i dtaca le Seachtain na Gaeilge. For further details, contact Bantry Library at 027-50460.
ROWING CLUB
Conditions on the River Lee last weekend were perfect for Cork Head Of the River. This annual race is a time trial from the Port of Cork downriver to Blackrock Castle. Bantry Rowing Club had about 12 entries in this event and did very well. The novice ladies’ single scull was won by Marie Piggott. Junior lady Colleen Kelleher was second in her event. The women’s junior 18 quad had a very good third place. Crew was K Murnane, Aine O’Sullivan, Ashling O’Sullivan and Mary O’Shea. Other Bantry rowers who fared well, but were out of the placings, were Abi Cronin, Laura Harrington, Lauren O’Donovan, Aisling O’Sullivan, Charlie Daly, Darragh Bennett, Jamie O’Sullivan, Alex Vickery, Peter Kelleher and Brian Begley. This was a good effort by all concerned and compliments went to the trainers and competitors alike.
BAY ROVERS
On Saturday, February 20 last, the Bay Rovers under-8 team played some games in Skibbereen. They won their first match 4-0 against Skibbereen with Sean O’Sullivan scoring three times and the fourth scored by Shane Crowley. They continued their good form by beating Skibbereen again in their second match with Ayrton Doyle and Shane Crowley scoring three goals each and Sean O’Sullivan and Christopher O’Sullivan finishing the scoring to win 8-2. In their last match, they beat Togher 2-1, with Sean O’Sullivan and Shane Crowley getting on the scoresheet. There were great performances by Daniel Downey and William Coakley. Also playing well were Joseph Cato and James Crowley. Last week it was the turn of the Rovers under-9 team and they lost their first match 3-2 to Lyre with Darragh McElhinney and Ryan O’Sullivan getting Rovers’ goals. They won their second match 2-0 against Skibbereen with Sean O’Sullivan and Darragh McElhinny scoring. They also won their third match 5-0 against Drinagh. Scorers were Ryan O’Sullivan (2), Darragh McElhinny, Billy Foley and Patrick Barry. Playing well were Shane Murray, Thomas Flynn and Tim O’Driscoll in goal. The Rovers under-11 team played on Sunday last, 28th, in Kealkil and lost the first match 5-1 to Skibbereen, with Cian Coughlan getting the consolation goal. Thomas Keavney scored in the second match against Skibbereen to earn Rovers a 1-1 draw. Despite Cian Coughlan and Jack O’Neill scoring for Rovers, they lost their third match 4-2 to Riverside. The Rovers under-12 team were in cup action against Bunratty. They advanced to the semi-final of the cup with a deserved victory. After a sluggish start Bay fell behind on ten minutes, as a result of a goalmouth scramble, when they failed to clear after Michael Casey had initially made a good save. The goal proved to be a wake-up call to the Bay youngsters who showed great spirit to take control of the game. Their endeavours were rewarded when Conor Ellis dribbled into the box and was fouled, however before the ref could award a penalty, Nicholas O’Sullivan curled a wonderful shot into the far corner to equalise on 20 minutes. Five minutes before half-time, Conor Ellis put the home side in front, as he latched onto a Jamie McSweeney through ball and shot past the advancing goalkeeper. Despite Bunratty’s best efforts, Bay continued to create chances and extended their lead on 45 minutes when Paddy O’Shea rose to head home a Jamie McSweeney cross into the box. The game was put beyond any doubt on 55 minutes when Nicholas O’Sullivan played a ball into Glenn Gibbs and he slotted the ball into the corner from ten yards. Paddy O’Shea was named ‘man of the match,’ with Nicolas O’Sullivan, Shane McCarthy and Conor Ellis also playing well throughout. The Rovers under-16 team were also in cup action against current premier leaders Lyre. They caused the upset of the round by winning 2-1 with David Casey scoring both Rovers’ goals. This win will give them the confidence to climb up the table. This Saturday sees the Rovers under-12 team playing title rivals Lyre, while the under-14 team will host Bunratty in the Under-14 Cup quarter-final in Kealkil. On Sunday, the junior team will travel to Macroom to play Droumree in the league and will hope to continue their current good form.
Guest of honour
Local building contractor Bob Murnane of the Murnane and O’Shea group of companies, Lahadane, is to be this year’s guest of honour for the St. Patrick’s weekend celebrations, according to Mayor of Bantry, Tom Barry, TC. Bob, together with his business partner, the late Dinny O’Shea started the MOS Company back in 1969, employing two workers, and their main work involved plastering the chimneys in Bantry. From small acorns do great oaks grow, and over the years, the two neighbours, from Letterlickey and Scart, respectively, increased their workforce and expanded their building into one of the most well-known building firms in the South of Ireland. Despite the 1980’s recession, and todays unstable economic climate, the company, Bob told us, employs 160 workers, and helped stop the flow of emigration over the years, while providing apprenticeships for many people. Bantry’s St. Patrick’s parade takes place on Sunday, March 14, starting from Harbour View, as usual, and entry forms for participants are available from Town Clerk David Campbell at the Arus Beanntrai, tel: 027-50058.
Think about it!
We sourced this week’s thought from that wonderful bible of wisdom “End the struggle and dance with life” by Susan Jeffers. It goes: “We diminish the present as we worry about the future”. Think about it.
Our Lady of Mercy NS
Our Lady of Mercy NS is extending a welcome to parents with children of school-going age to come and visit school this Friday, March 5, from 1-2pm. This is an opportunity to see the school in operation, meet the staff and view many facilities, sensory room, computer room, halla, playground and many interactive whiteboards. Enrolment will also take place on this day. On Monday, February 22, the team of mini-sevens left Our Lady of Mercy NS for their first matches in Ballydehob. The girls from 5th and 6th classes won both their matches against Schull NS and Derrinacahara NS. The girls have qualified for the next stage of the ‘blitz’, which is an excellent start to this year’s GAA campaign. Meanwhile, on the music front Our Lady of Mercy has borrowed a set of Samba drums from The Education Centre in Dunmanway. The energetic rhythms and beats from the drums can be heard through the school and the children’s enjoyment is reflected in their faces.
Collection
The West Cork Wheelchair Support Group, has thanked everybody who subscribed so generously to their recent Church gate collection. To the collectors, who gave of their time willingly and voluntarily, a heartfelt thanks was extended. The amount raised was £1,335.81.
Mealagh Valley
Bingo will be held at the Community Centre at Ards on Thursday, March 4 at 9.30pm. Support would be greatly appreciated.
New arrival
Congratulations has been extended to popular circuit singer and musician Ger Deasy and his partner, Eleanor, on the birth of their daughter, Laura Ann, at CUH on Monday, February 22 last.
youth cafe
The Attic Youth Cafe held a public speaking event to promote Fairtrade Fortnight on Friday, February 26. The young people were required to speak for 90 seconds about Fairtrade without using some of the most common misused words in society today. The young people were not permitted to use the words ‘so’ and ‘like’ within their sentences, nor were they allowed to ‘ummm’ or ‘aaaaammm’ during the 90 seconds allotted to each participant. The task proved more difficult than anyone imagined, as everyone encountered difficulty with the parameters of the task, however there was plenty of encouragement from the young people towards the participants. The event was filled with great fun and many laughs as each young person spoke about Fairtrade. Congratulations went to Jason O’Brien, who received cinema vouchers for his participation in the Fairtrade event.
BANTRY Hospice Project is running a snooker exhibition between Dennis Taylor and Steve Davis in the Maritime Hotel, Bantry on Tuesday, March 16, at 8pm. VIP tickets will cost €50, while standard tickets are €25. Tickets are available from Rowa Pharmaceuticals Ltd on 027-50077 and the Maritime Hotel on 027-54700. All proceeds are in aid of the Bantry Hospice project.
IRISH SOCIAL HOUR
Bantry Library is celebrating Seachtain na Gaeilge in March with the local branch of Conradh na Gaeilge hosting an “Irish Social Hour” on Wednesday next, March 10th at 11 a.m. This session will consist of music, songs, stories, recitations and mini sketches in Irish. Admission is free. Séisiún Gaelach ina mbeidh ceol, amhránaíocht, sceitsí grinn beaga, scéalta agus aithriseoracht - timpeall uair a’ chloig ar fhaid ó 11 a.m. go meánlae Márta 10 é á cur i láthair ag baill Chonradh na Gaeilge, Beanntraí, sa Leabharlann i mBeanntraí i dtaca le Seachtain na Gaeilge. For further details, contact Bantry Library at 027-50460.
ROWING CLUB
Conditions on the River Lee last weekend were perfect for Cork Head Of the River. This annual race is a time trial from the Port of Cork downriver to Blackrock Castle. Bantry Rowing Club had about 12 entries in this event and did very well. The novice ladies’ single scull was won by Marie Piggott. Junior lady Colleen Kelleher was second in her event. The women’s junior 18 quad had a very good third place. Crew was K Murnane, Aine O’Sullivan, Ashling O’Sullivan and Mary O’Shea. Other Bantry rowers who fared well, but were out of the placings, were Abi Cronin, Laura Harrington, Lauren O’Donovan, Aisling O’Sullivan, Charlie Daly, Darragh Bennett, Jamie O’Sullivan, Alex Vickery, Peter Kelleher and Brian Begley. This was a good effort by all concerned and compliments went to the trainers and competitors alike.
BAY ROVERS
On Saturday, February 20 last, the Bay Rovers under-8 team played some games in Skibbereen. They won their first match 4-0 against Skibbereen with Sean O’Sullivan scoring three times and the fourth scored by Shane Crowley. They continued their good form by beating Skibbereen again in their second match with Ayrton Doyle and Shane Crowley scoring three goals each and Sean O’Sullivan and Christopher O’Sullivan finishing the scoring to win 8-2. In their last match, they beat Togher 2-1, with Sean O’Sullivan and Shane Crowley getting on the scoresheet. There were great performances by Daniel Downey and William Coakley. Also playing well were Joseph Cato and James Crowley. Last week it was the turn of the Rovers under-9 team and they lost their first match 3-2 to Lyre with Darragh McElhinney and Ryan O’Sullivan getting Rovers’ goals. They won their second match 2-0 against Skibbereen with Sean O’Sullivan and Darragh McElhinny scoring. They also won their third match 5-0 against Drinagh. Scorers were Ryan O’Sullivan (2), Darragh McElhinny, Billy Foley and Patrick Barry. Playing well were Shane Murray, Thomas Flynn and Tim O’Driscoll in goal. The Rovers under-11 team played on Sunday last, 28th, in Kealkil and lost the first match 5-1 to Skibbereen, with Cian Coughlan getting the consolation goal. Thomas Keavney scored in the second match against Skibbereen to earn Rovers a 1-1 draw. Despite Cian Coughlan and Jack O’Neill scoring for Rovers, they lost their third match 4-2 to Riverside. The Rovers under-12 team were in cup action against Bunratty. They advanced to the semi-final of the cup with a deserved victory. After a sluggish start Bay fell behind on ten minutes, as a result of a goalmouth scramble, when they failed to clear after Michael Casey had initially made a good save. The goal proved to be a wake-up call to the Bay youngsters who showed great spirit to take control of the game. Their endeavours were rewarded when Conor Ellis dribbled into the box and was fouled, however before the ref could award a penalty, Nicholas O’Sullivan curled a wonderful shot into the far corner to equalise on 20 minutes. Five minutes before half-time, Conor Ellis put the home side in front, as he latched onto a Jamie McSweeney through ball and shot past the advancing goalkeeper. Despite Bunratty’s best efforts, Bay continued to create chances and extended their lead on 45 minutes when Paddy O’Shea rose to head home a Jamie McSweeney cross into the box. The game was put beyond any doubt on 55 minutes when Nicholas O’Sullivan played a ball into Glenn Gibbs and he slotted the ball into the corner from ten yards. Paddy O’Shea was named ‘man of the match,’ with Nicolas O’Sullivan, Shane McCarthy and Conor Ellis also playing well throughout. The Rovers under-16 team were also in cup action against current premier leaders Lyre. They caused the upset of the round by winning 2-1 with David Casey scoring both Rovers’ goals. This win will give them the confidence to climb up the table. This Saturday sees the Rovers under-12 team playing title rivals Lyre, while the under-14 team will host Bunratty in the Under-14 Cup quarter-final in Kealkil. On Sunday, the junior team will travel to Macroom to play Droumree in the league and will hope to continue their current good form.
Guest of honour
Local building contractor Bob Murnane of the Murnane and O’Shea group of companies, Lahadane, is to be this year’s guest of honour for the St. Patrick’s weekend celebrations, according to Mayor of Bantry, Tom Barry, TC. Bob, together with his business partner, the late Dinny O’Shea started the MOS Company back in 1969, employing two workers, and their main work involved plastering the chimneys in Bantry. From small acorns do great oaks grow, and over the years, the two neighbours, from Letterlickey and Scart, respectively, increased their workforce and expanded their building into one of the most well-known building firms in the South of Ireland. Despite the 1980’s recession, and todays unstable economic climate, the company, Bob told us, employs 160 workers, and helped stop the flow of emigration over the years, while providing apprenticeships for many people. Bantry’s St. Patrick’s parade takes place on Sunday, March 14, starting from Harbour View, as usual, and entry forms for participants are available from Town Clerk David Campbell at the Arus Beanntrai, tel: 027-50058.
Think about it!
We sourced this week’s thought from that wonderful bible of wisdom “End the struggle and dance with life” by Susan Jeffers. It goes: “We diminish the present as we worry about the future”. Think about it.
Our Lady of Mercy NS
Our Lady of Mercy NS is extending a welcome to parents with children of school-going age to come and visit school this Friday, March 5, from 1-2pm. This is an opportunity to see the school in operation, meet the staff and view many facilities, sensory room, computer room, halla, playground and many interactive whiteboards. Enrolment will also take place on this day. On Monday, February 22, the team of mini-sevens left Our Lady of Mercy NS for their first matches in Ballydehob. The girls from 5th and 6th classes won both their matches against Schull NS and Derrinacahara NS. The girls have qualified for the next stage of the ‘blitz’, which is an excellent start to this year’s GAA campaign. Meanwhile, on the music front Our Lady of Mercy has borrowed a set of Samba drums from The Education Centre in Dunmanway. The energetic rhythms and beats from the drums can be heard through the school and the children’s enjoyment is reflected in their faces.
Collection
The West Cork Wheelchair Support Group, has thanked everybody who subscribed so generously to their recent Church gate collection. To the collectors, who gave of their time willingly and voluntarily, a heartfelt thanks was extended. The amount raised was £1,335.81.
Mealagh Valley
Bingo will be held at the Community Centre at Ards on Thursday, March 4 at 9.30pm. Support would be greatly appreciated.
New arrival
Congratulations has been extended to popular circuit singer and musician Ger Deasy and his partner, Eleanor, on the birth of their daughter, Laura Ann, at CUH on Monday, February 22 last.
youth cafe
The Attic Youth Cafe held a public speaking event to promote Fairtrade Fortnight on Friday, February 26. The young people were required to speak for 90 seconds about Fairtrade without using some of the most common misused words in society today. The young people were not permitted to use the words ‘so’ and ‘like’ within their sentences, nor were they allowed to ‘ummm’ or ‘aaaaammm’ during the 90 seconds allotted to each participant. The task proved more difficult than anyone imagined, as everyone encountered difficulty with the parameters of the task, however there was plenty of encouragement from the young people towards the participants. The event was filled with great fun and many laughs as each young person spoke about Fairtrade. Congratulations went to Jason O’Brien, who received cinema vouchers for his participation in the Fairtrade event.
Bandon
JOHN Seaman, producer of Sive, the John B. Keane classic, has announced that three further performances of Sive take place in Gaggin Community Hall on: Thursday, March 4, and Saturday and Sunday, March 6 and 7. Curtain is 8.30pm. The Gaggin Dramatic Society production enthralled the capacity audiences that attended its first three performances at the Gaggin Community Hall last weekend. Producer John Seaman extracted every last ounce from a superb cast, and a great script, whose collective endeavours drew forth every pain and pathos from the plight of the young girl Sive, whose future happiness was blighted and then destroyed by the scheming matchmaking of Thomasheen Sean Rua played by the superb Don Brennan, and his partner in crime Mena Galvin, played by the irrepressible Theresa McCarthy. The veteran Dónal Coomey gave an assured performance as the lecherous Seán Dóta while Anne Marie O’Regan was excellent as Sive. John Donegan as Mike Glavin played the role just perfectly and John O’Regan played Liam Scuab with great sensitivity and elan. Pam Golden continues to impress and she delivered a top-class performance as Nanna Glavin whose moral compass highlighted the crassness of the match between Seán Dóta and Sive. The characters of Pats Bocock (PJ Hegarty) and Carthalawn (Martin Kelly), through their intermittent appearances in Glavin kitchen, raised audience awareness that this match was not approved of generally in the community. The superb playing of both PJ and Martin – what a singing voice – added greatly to the enjoyment of the tragedy.
HEAD SHOPS
Labour Party Town Councillor for Bandon, Cllr. Gearóid Buckley, has commended the Labour Parliamentary Party for moving the first stage of a Private Members Bill to restrict the spread of so-called ‘Head Shops’ which are causing so much concern around the country. Under the terms of the Bill, the Planning and Development (Amendment) Bill 2010, specific planning permission would be required for a change of use of premises to open a head shop. Cllr. Buckley said: ‘Under existing planning legislation local authorities are powerless to control the location of these premises. Because no specific planning permission is required for change of use from one existing retail function to another, members of local communities have no opportunity whatsoever to express any concerns they might have. The proprietor of a grocery store, take away or Internet café must apply and obtain planning permission to open for business. However, that same owner can then decide to convert the premises into a head shop overnight without even having to apply to the local authority for planning permission for a change of use. In effect, there is nothing to stop a person from seeking and securing planning permission to open a sweet shop and then, overnight, turning it into a head shop. Because these shops are not illegal but are unlicensed and unregulated and can sell their products to minors as well as adults, there is serious concern in local communities at the failure of the authorities to take action. This Bill is not a complete answer to the problem of head shops. This can only be achieved through the banning of the dangerous substances that are on sale in these outlets, but this is a complex and difficult procedure that may take some time. In the absence of any other action from the government, this Bill offers an interim solution that would, if enacted, at a very minimum restrict the further spread of these outlets.’
Easter Camp
Just when we thought that winter would never end along comes news of spring-time activities for the kids on their Easter holiday break. A ‘Campa Cásca/Easter Camp’ will be held at the Naíonra, located within the Bandon GAA grounds, from Monday, March 29, to Friday, April 2, for boys and girls aged 4 to 7 years. A comprehensive range of activities will be on offer: painting techniques, pottery, mosaics, storytelling, movement, ceol, damhsa, drama, sport. Places are limited, so early booking is advisable – enrolment forms and further information from Maureen at 086-1968790.
World Day of Prayer
The World Day of Prayer ‘movement’ is both international and interdenominational and this year’s services have been prepared by the women of Cameroon. Men and women are welcome to the special ceremony at St. Peter’s Church, Church of Ireland, Bandon, on this Friday, March 5, at 8pm.
Brinny Pitch & Putt
Winners of the first round of Spring League: Team C, Michael Meade 299, Team B, 302. No further information is available. On Sunday next, for the second round of the league, a draw for partners will take place between 9.30 and 10am. Wednesday morning game is at 10.30am.
Fashion Extravaganza
Innishannon ICA presents a fashion extravaganza at Innishannon House Hotel on Monday, March 15, at 8pm in aid of Bandon Day Centre, Alzheimers and Arthritis Centre. Tickets are available from Sheila, 021-4775366, Mary, 021-4775360, Kit, 021-4776074 or any other member. An annual outing will take place from June 27 to 30. Trip includes Knock, Derry, Inishowen Peninsula to Malin Head, staying in Bundoran. More details from Sheila at 021-4775366.
Cope Quiz
The Bandon branch of Cope Foundation will hold a table quiz on Thursday, March 11, at 9pm sharp at the Brogan Inn, Bandon. A good night of fun and prizes is assured.
Cumann Seanchais
The next talk to the members of Bandon Local History Society, ‘A Virtual Tour of Kinsale’, will be an illustrated one by Dermot Ryan. It will be given on Wednesday, March 10, at 8pm at the Parish Centre, to the rear of St. Patrick’s Church. New members are welcome.
Oíche Eolais
Gaelscoil Dhrocihead na Banndan: Beidh Oíche Eolais na Gaelscoile – an Information Evening for parents is on Tuesday, March 9, at 7.30p.m. Enrolment of pupils for September 2010 will take place on Thursday, March 11, between 1.30 and 2.45pm, or alternatively, phone the Gaelscoil at 023-8843378 for further details. Céad Míle Fáilte Romhaibh Isteach.
Lotto
Teresa O’Sullivan, seller Michael Nyhan, won the €1,550 jackpot in last week’s Bandon GAA lotto draw. The following received €40 each: Jim O’Keeffe T.D., Jim McCarthy, c/o Nyhan’s Bar, Kitty O’Callaghan, c/o Tessie, Luke and Gavin Daly, Summerhill Heights.
YOUNG SCIENTISTS
Hamilton High School students Peter Murphy, Jamie Wall, John Kearney entered this year’s BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition with their project entitled ‘Grass is Greener’. Their idea was to compare the heating potential of running the piping in a geothermal system through grass, with the conventional method of running the piping through earth. Their investigations concluded that it is more economical to install, and operate, a grass-based water-heating system than a geothermal heating system. The students agreed that the Young Scientist Exhibition experience was not only a great learning opportunity, but a hugely enjoyable event.
Sinn Fein
The Sinn Fein Ard Fheis 2010 will be helded this weekend the March 5 and 6 at the RDS, Dublin. The theme for this year’s Ard Fheis will be ‘jobs, fairness, equality and unity’. Once again Sinn Fein representatives and activists from Bandon and across Ireland will address a wide range of issues, from high unemployment, the economic crisis, to the Hillsborough Agreement. There will also be a discussion on the damage that was done to Bandon town and other areas due to major flooding. The Presidential Address by Gerry Adams will be broadcast live at the new time of 8.30pm on the Saturday evening on RTE 1. For information on the SF Ard Fheis or other SF events in Bandon or West Cork please contact Cllr. Rachel McCarthy at 087-7659085 or email at rachelmmccarthy2003@yahoo.com
GOLF CLUB
Results for Saturday, February 27, singles: 1. S. Kelleher (15) 36 pts. Sunday, February 28, singles: 1. M. Kelly (18) 34 pts; 2. F. Crowley (15) 33 pts; 3. C. O’Mahony (14) 33 pts. Fixtures: Saturday, March 6, Spring League singles; Sunday, March 7, Spring League singles. Ladies fixtures: Wednesday, March 10, week 4 Spring League, singles matchplay (16 holes) also 16-holes singles stableford.
AWARD FOR HOSFORDS
Hosfords Geranium & Garden Centre Ltd. based on the main Bandon-Clonakilty N71 Road were recipients of a 3-star award at the recent awards ceremony held at Bewleys Hotel in Ballsbridge, Dublin on Friday, February 26. The award was granted in recognition of standards achieved in garden centre service and facilities under the Bord Bia Garden Centre Quality Awards 2009/2010.
Tennis Club
Last Sunday the grade 5A travelled to Ballypatrick for their winter league play-off match. However, after a close and hard-fought encounter the home side won 3/1. Niall Coonan, John O’Toole, Catherine McCarthy and Karen O’Sullivan displayed great play since the start of the league last November. This Sunday sees the turn of Brian Collins’ grade 3 team and Therese Hurley’s grade 5B team. Both play at home; grade 3s taking on Lakewood and the grade 5B team entertaining Crosshaven.
Soccer Club
Results, February 27: Boys U12, Bandon 0, Mallow 3; Boys U16 Macroom 1, Bandon 5; Boys U12 WCL, Arfield 1, Bandon 2. February 28: Girls U14, Bandon 0, Wilton 10; Boys U14, Ballincollig 3, Bandon 0; Bandon Ladies awarded win v Harbour United. Fixtures: Thursday, March 4, CIT v Bandon Seniors. Saturday 6th, Boys U13 v Waterloo at 10.30am; Boys U11 A v Springfield Ramblers at 11.45; Boys U11 v Lakewood at 11.45; Boys U14 v Corinthians at 11.45. Sunday 7th, Boys U15 v St. Marys at 10.30; Seniors v Lakewood at 10.45; Ladies v Crookstown at 11am; Boys U12 WCL v Ardfield. It was cup quarter-final day for Bandon’s U12 West Cork squad on Saturday, February 27, losing to Ardfield 2–1. Team: Jack Lang, Jordan McCarthy, Joseph O’ Mahony, Lee Holland(CAPT), Shane Creagh Piper, Cian Harrington, Leon Collins Nagle, James McCarthy, Dan O’Mahony, Cian O’Connell, Xavier Neville. Subs: Rhys Earl, Dylan Shiels, Ryan Twomey. Best for Bandon: Jordan McCarthy and Rhys Earl. It was cup action at the weekend for the U14 Girls of Bandon against Wilton. They faced a very hard encounter against Wilton and lost 0–10. Bandon: Amanda Casey, Niamh Hill, Chloe Lynch, Shauna Rafferty, Sarah Crowley, Imelda Fitzgerald, Eileen Lordan, Lydia Covney, Rachel O’Neill, Lisa Crowley, Katie Driscoll. Subs: Kate O’Donovan, Trina Sullivan and Kelly Harte. Best for Bandon: Amanda Casey.
SOCCER Lotto
There was no winner of the €5,650 jackpot in the Bandon Soccer Club lotto draw of Monday, March 1. The following received €35 each: Del Kirwin, The Watergate, Clodagh Hurley, Kilmichael Var, Kay O’Regan, c/o Richard O’Regan, Kim Jones, The Watergate. The house winner was Jim Chambers, The Ash Tree. Next week’s draw takes place in de Barra’s and and jackpot will be €6,150.
TV Talent SHOW
Michael Lawlor was the first competitor to qualify for the final of the All-Ireland Talent Show on Sunday evening last, February 28. He performed magnificently again and was widely praised by the panel of judges, including our own John Creedon, his mentor.
St. Brogan’s COLLEGE
Students and mentors at St. Brogan’s College have been very active of late, both on and off the field of play, as it were. The following are some of the inter-schools’ activities that students from the college have participated in with success. The school Build a Bank team organised and ran a very successful bank over the past five months. They have developed a business plan, advertised and promoted their bank, as well as opening on a weekly basis. At present the team is preparing for the regional finals where they are due to present all aspects of their bank to a team of judges. This is to be held in Fota Island Hotel on March 10. As part of A Lego Mind Storms Competition four students – Conor Fleming, Aaron Buttimer and Liam O’Donovan and Stephen Bennett – built a robot from a custom-designed lego kit. The brief given to students required them to develop a robot that could pick up a miniature basketball and put it into a basketball hoop. The competition took place in Maryborough House Hotel and St. Brogan’s was one of 16 schools from Cork to take part. The competition was organised by the Cork Electronics Industry Association and was confined to second-year students and formed part of a renewed effort to increase the profile of science at second level. Last Friday, St. Brogan’s U16 football team played Causeway Comprehensive School in the Munster Vocational Schools Junior A final in Rathmore, and secured their first Munster title at this grade since 2004. On Friday, March 5, St. Brogan’s senior footballers are involved in a replay of the Munster Vocational Schools Senior A final against Clonakilty Community College. The Girls U14 team took part in the qualifying rounds of the County VEC basketball competition last week. Despite putting in a strong challenge they were defeated by a superior Kanturk side. However, their overall performance has seen them qualify for the semi-finals in the B grade competition.