.Mona Burke, Geraldine King and Kathleen Lawlor at the start of the Spa Fenit Committee Good Friday Walk for Kerry Hospice at The Tankard. Photo by Dermot Crean
THE annual Good Friday walks for Kerry Hospice provided a chance for people to get an active start to the day for a great cause.
There were two walks in the Tralee area — one taking off from the Grand Hotel and the other from The Tankard in Spa/Fenit.
The Tralee walk drew around 100 participants in the 22nd annual event where the late Ted Moynihan was remembered. The conditions were mainly dry and they warmed up with tea and scones afterwards in The Grand Hotel.
Meanwhile, over at The Tankard, around 50 participants set off on the Spa/Fenit Hospice Committee Jerry O’Sullivan Memorial Walk on a 10k scenic route. There will be refreshments afterwards at the bar/restaurant.
All funds raised from walks held all over the county will go towards the upkeep of the new 15-bed Palliative Care Unit. Scroll down for photos…
A group gathered for the Tralee Good Friday Walk for Kerry Hospice at The Grand Hotel. Photo by Dermot Crean.Dawn Clifford and Betty Culloty at the start of the Tralee Good Friday Walk for Kerry Hospice at The Grand Hotel. Photo by Dermot CreanKay Condon and Mary Hartnett at the start of the Tralee Good Friday Walk for Kerry Hospice at The Grand Hotel. Photo by Dermot Crean.Bernadette and Linda Browne at the start of the Tralee Good Friday Walk for Kerry Hospice at The Grand Hotel. Photo by Dermot CreanNoreen Quirke, Denise and Noel Griffin at the start of the Tralee Good Friday Walk for Kerry Hospice at The Grand Hotel. Photo by Dermot Crean.Elizabeth McCarthy, Mary O’Regan and Regina O’Regan at the start of the Tralee Good Friday Walk for Kerry Hospice at The Grand Hotel. Photo by Dermot CreanBrian Harty, Brenda O’Connell, Mary Hartnett and Gerard Heaslip at the start of the Tralee Good Friday Walk for Kerry Hospice at The Grand Hotel. Photo by Dermot Crean.Most of the participants at the start of the Tralee Good Friday Walk for Kerry Hospice at The Grand Hotel. Photo by Dermot CreanThe participants at the start of the Spa Fenit Committee Good Friday Walk for Kerry Hospice at The Tankard. Photo by Dermot Crean.Kenneth O’Shea, Daniel, Kevin and Moss O’Connor at the start of the Spa Fenit Committee Good Friday Walk for Kerry Hospice at The Tankard. Photo by Dermot CreanRachel McCarthy, Isabel Horgan and Caoimhe Hanafin at the start of the Spa Fenit Committee Good Friday Walk for Kerry Hospice at The Tankard. Photo by Dermot CreanMarina and Francis McGarrell and Christine Gallagher at the start of the Spa Fenit Committee Good Friday Walk for Kerry Hospice at The Tankard. Photo by Dermot CreanTaking off at the start of the Tralee Good Friday Walk for Kerry Hospice at The Grand Hotel. Photo by Dermot CreanTaking off at the start of the Tralee Good Friday Walk for Kerry Hospice at The Grand Hotel. Photo by Dermot Crean
.Aidan O’Mahony with members of the Under 15 boys and Under 12 girls teams who were presented with medals on Friday evening at The Station House. Photo by Dermot Crean
ST Pats held a rescheduled medal presentation for juvenile players at The Station House on Friday evening.
Former Kerry star, Aidan O’Mahony, was the special guest and gave out the medals to the Under 12 girls side who won the County League Shield and the Under 15 team who won the Town League last year.
It was also an occasion to relaunch their new website. The club will be updating the new site regularly with news, photos and much more.
At the relaunch of the new St Pat’s GAA club website at then Station House on Friday evening were Marie Fitzgibbon, Dipo Dairo (PRO), Jimmy Mulligan (Chairman), Tadhg O’Halloran (Club Delegate) and special guest Aidan O’Mahony. Photo by Dermot Crean
John McCann says ‘Mary Magdelene is a well-crafted biblical tale that just falls short of director Garth Davis’ standard…
Following on from the huge success of his debut feature film ‘Lion’, director Garth Davis takes on the retelling of a famous religious tale in the shape of Mary Magdelene.
This biblical biopic of one of the most enigmatic and misunderstood spiritual figures in history, tells the story of Mary (played Rooney Mara), a young woman in search of guidance.
Confined by the hierarchies of the day, Mary defies her traditional family to join a new social movement led by the charismatic Jesus of Nazareth (Joaquin Phoenix).
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She soon finds a vital place for herself within the movement and at the heart of a journey that will lead to Jerusalem.
Religious biopics have traditionally been somewhat of a cinematic gamble, lacking universal appeal and in some cases provoking the ire of dissatisfied viewers despondent at the portrayal of their core religious beliefs.
Rooney Mara as Mary Magdalene.
The retelling of the story of Mary Magdelene therefore, seemed a strange choice for director Davis but he does however deal with the subject matter admirably and creates a motion picture that works for the most part, but just lacks that little extra to lift it to the same level of brilliance of his astounding debut.
Rooney Mara delivers a commendable portrayal of Mary, bringing her usual intensity to the lead role with the help of the enigmatic Joaquin Phoenix who is perfectly cast as Jesus.
Add in the incredible cinematography (the film being shot entirely in southern Italy) a haunting score (sadly one of the last by Johann Johannson) and you get a feature that contains a lot to admire.
The overdue retelling of the story of Mary of Mandala, is also one that restores this iconic religious figure to her acknowledged place and more.
Ultimately despite the film’s graceful intentions and quietly assured confidence the end product just about misses its desire mark.
However, it still remains a beautifully crafted film with some strong performances – it just doesn’t hit the extraordinary heights scaled by the director in his debut feature.
Know Your Rights has been compiled by Kerry Citizens Information Service which provides a free and confidential service to the public…
Question: I’m working part-time on a low wage. Do I qualify for any social welfare payments?
Answer: It depends on your personal circumstances. Many people work part-time before taking up full-time employment.
If you are working part-time you can, in some cases, keep or apply for a partial social welfare payment, or you may qualify for additional supports.
If you work over 38 hours in a fortnight and you have children you may be able to claim Working Family Payment (WFP), formerly known as Family Income Supplement or FIS. WFP is a weekly tax-free payment for people on low pay.
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You may be able to claim a jobseeker’s payment for the days you are not working. You can work part-time for up to three days a week and claim a reduced Jobseeker’s Benefit or Jobseeker’s Allowance payment.
You may qualify for the Part-Time Job Incentive Scheme if you were getting Jobseeker’s Allowance and find part-time work for less than 24 hours per week.
However, one of the main conditions for getting a jobseeker’s payment is that you must be available for work and actively seeking work. This means that you must continue to look for work on the days you are unemployed. You must also be unemployed for at least four days out of seven consecutive days.
If you return to work after a period of unemployment, you may qualify for the Back to Work Family Dividend (BTWFD) which aims to help families move from social welfare into employment.
The BTWFD and WFP can be paid together and the BTWFD is not taken into account in the means test for WFP.
If you are parenting alone and getting a One-Parent Family Payment, you are allowed to earn a certain amount each week and keep your payment.
In some cases, people getting disability payments can do some work and keep a social welfare payment.
You can get more information on your options from the Citizens Information Service below.
• Contact us in Tralee on Tel: 0761 07 7860 Killarney 0761 07 7820, Listowel 0761 07 7840 Kenmare 0761 07 7810, Killorglin 0761 07830 & Caherciveen 0761 07 7780.
Information is also available online at citizensinformation.ie and from the Citizens Information Phone Service, 0761 07 4000
THE three Applegreen service stations in Tralee are giving out a free coffee or tea to drivers today (Friday) and Monday.
The company has teamed up again with the Road Safety Authority Ireland to help drivers stay alert on Irish roads this Easter weekend.
On Friday 30th March and Monday 2nd April, they are supporting the RSA Driver Reviver Campaign. The three participating Tralee stations are in Monavalley, Fairies Cross and Manor Village. Stations in Killarney and Listowel are also taking part.
So drop in between 2pm and 8pm, say ‘RSA’ or ‘Driver Reviver’ at the till and enjoy a free coffee or tea on them.
.The Icon of The Holy Family will visit Tralee next month.
ST John’s Church in Tralee will host a visit of the Icon of the Holy Family in April.
The Icon of the Holy Family is a large three panelled piece representing the Holy Family at home, and on either side, Jesus healing a young girl and Jesus at the Wedding festivities at Cana. It was specially commissioned for the World Meeting of Families.
An icon is said to be written rather than painted, as it expresses the Word of God in line and form. This icon was written by Mihai Cicu and assisted by the Redemptoristine Sisters in Dublin.
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Pope Francis has just confirmed his visit to the World Meeting of Families taking place in Dublin this August and the diocese of Kerry, is continuing its preparations for the event with this visit of the icon.
It takes place in St. John’s Tralee on the afternoon of Tuesday, April 17 and the morning of Friday, April 20.
The Icon will also visit the following locations in Kerry:
Listowel: Afternoon of Monday April 9th – Morning of Wednesday 11th
Kenmare: Afternoon of Wednesday April 11th – Morning of Friday 13th
Killarney: Afternoon of Friday 13th April – Morning of Tuesday 17th
Although the Icon will be on view in four churches, every parish is invited to participate in this prayer for all families.
During the Icon visit people are invited to write their petitions and bring them to the icon. These petitions will be prayed for by various religious communities all around the country over the coming months.
The petitions will be placed on the altar in the Phoenix Park for the Closing Mass with Pope Francis on Sunday August 26th.
Groups who would like to visit the Icon are asked to co-ordinate timings with the Parish secretaries of Listowel (068 21188),Kenmare (064 6641352) , Killarney (064 6631014) and St. John’s Tralee (066 7122522).
The visit of the Icon of the Holy Family is another step on the journey to the Pope’s World Meeting of Families.
THE former Goblin/Kerryman site in the Clash Industrial Estate has been sold. The 15.2 acre site includes 120,000 square feet of commercial units.
The Goblin site has been vacant for well over ten years while NEWKD had offices in former Kerryman site for a while — before moving to town a few years ago — after the newspaper moved to Denny Street back in 2007. The purchaser of the site has not been revealed
.A five bed house in Ballyheigue with a reserve of €120,000 is one of four properties going to online auction next month.
A DETACHED five-bed house in Ballyheigue and eight houses near Banna are two of four Kerry lots that will go to an online auction next month.
Bidx1 (formerly Allsop) are holding an online auction on Friday, April 13 beginning at 8am.
Among the Kerry properties is a detached five bedroom house at Dirtane, Ballyheigue, with a reserve not to exceed €120,000.
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The house extends to approximately 192 sq. m (2,066 sq. ft) on a site extending to approximately 0.16 hectares (0.40 acres) with gardens to the rear.
The subject property is situated on an unnamed road accessed view R551 approximately 1.6km north of Ballyheigue.
Just a few miles away there are eight holiday homes at Cuil na Beannai, Ardfert, near Banna being sold as one lot, with a reserve not to exceed €200,000.
The eight house development near Banna.
The development of eight holiday homes comprising 8 x three bedroom detached houses, ranging in size from 68 sq. m (731 sq. ft) – 74 sq. m (796.sq.ft). Each unit requires internal upgrading. The subject properties can be accessed via the R551 onto an unnamed road towards Banna Beach.
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In the north of the county a mid terraced three bedroom house on Main Street, Tarbert, has a reserve not to exceed €35,000.
The house in Tarbert for auction.
The property extending to approximately 110 sq. m (1,184 sq. ft).
Finally at Clanmaurice , Commons West, Ardfert, there is a site up for auction with a reserve not to exceed €20,000. It’s an irregular shaped parcel of land extending to approximately 0.16 hectares (0.39 acres).
The site at West Commons Ardfert.
For more details on all the properties mentioned above click here.
.At the launch of the new Cara Credit Union name on Thursday were; Marcella Herlihy, Siobhan Donnelly, Tom Lawlor, Christine Fitzgerald, Phyllis Healy, Caroline Sugrue, Pa Laide, Emer O’Connor, Derry Fleming and Suzanne Ennis. Photo by Dermot Crean
THURSDAY was a historic day for Tralee Credit Union as, after 50 years, the name was changed.
It was decided to rebrand it as Cara Credit Union as there are now three offices in Tralee, Castleisland and Killorglin and the directors felt the name “Tralee Credit Union” is not fully inclusive of these towns and hinterlands.
The motion to change the name was passed by a two-thirds majority at their AGM back in December.
It’s all part of the 50th anniversary celebrations at the branch. There was an open day held yesterday with entertainment in all three offices. There was plenty of prizes on offer including a members car draw which was won by Breda O’Callaghan from The Spa.
.Kids and volunteers from Campabilities in the Town Park on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
TRALEE Town Park was the venue for a special event on Thursday when kids from Campabilities took part in a Junior Park Run.
Campabilities is a national camp run for kids with Vision Impairment, with 42 campers from 16 counties in Ireland. Campabilities which is being run by Cara which has an office in Tralee IT, had a series of events happening in the Tralee area.
The event in the Park was a pilot with Park Run Ireland and the Junior Park Run in Tralee and there was a great turnout of volunteers for the event which was enjoyed by all.
A KERRY TD has called on the HSE to investigate work practices and workloads at University Hospital Kerry.
Sinn Féin TD Martin Ferris was speaking in the Dáil yesterday where he said he met management at the hospital on January 29 to voice concerns about workplace practices and low morale amongst staff.
“I requested this meeting on the back of numerous complaints made to me by staff across all departments,” said Deputy Ferris.
“These staff are dedicated professionals who want to give the best service they can possibly give, but are unable to due to chronic understaffing and lack of resources; they are finding their work environment extremely stressful, so much so that some agency staff are refusing shifts at A&E due to the severe and over burdening workload there. I am also told that several nurses are out of work due to stress related illnesses with more likely to follow.”
“At the meeting I was given assurances that work place conditions were being addressed.”
“In the meantime Dr Louis Keary, who is a renowned cardiologist, has signalled his intention to resign his position at University Hospital Kerry. I believe this is due to a lack of support. This means the hospital will be operating with just one part time cardiologist tending to hundreds of heart patients. This is totally unacceptable to my constituents and would not nor should not be tolerated anywhere else.”
“I am also told that several nurses are out of work due to stress related illnesses and more likely to follow.”
Deputy Ferris said an investigation into work place practices and an examination of the workload of consultants and staff at the hospital is needed.
“Morale of staff is in my opinion at an all-time low and the problems cannot be left fester any longer,” he added.
.Helena Clifford, Fidelma Dillon, Margaret Cahill and Geraldine Lennon contestants in the Ardfert NS ‘Lip Sing Battle’ at the launch of the event at Ballyroe Heights Hotel in February. Photo by Dermot Crean
THE final countdown is on for Saturday’s Ardfert National School ‘Lip Sing’ event and the organisers have made extra tickets available on the night.
After two sell-out Strictly Come Dancing events over the past couple of years, the school to host their first ‘Lip Sing Battle’ at the Ballyroe Heights Hotel where ten acts will take to the floor in what promises to be a fantastic night of fun and entertainment.
The committee is delighted with sales so far and will release extra tickets on the door on Saturday night. All monies raised will go towards the much needed school hall.
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Creative director Joe Burkett has been busy with the acts for the past few months so expect some iconic artists, amazing performances and some surprise syncing sensations.
The participants are Helena Clifford, Geraldine Lennon, Margaret Cahill, Fidelma Dillon, Carmel Russell, Michael Leen, Marcus O’Sullivan, Barry Leen, Jonathon Harmon, Grainne Healy, Siobhan Lacey, Tony O’Halloran, Betty Stack, Kevin O’Connor, Tania Lawlor, Nicola O’Connor, Linda O’Sullivan, Trina O’Sullivan, Siobhan O’Connor, Helena McDonagh, Kirstie Nowak, Cecilia O’Callaghan, Rachel Fitzgerald, Karen Best, Karen Farrelly, Tommy Long, Marion Long, Marilyn Jones, John Martin Lyne, Mark Blennerhasset, Nicole O’Connor, Ben Rocher, Marion Rey, Mary Lawlor.
Doors open at 7pm on the night so make sure you get their early if you want to secure that ticket (€20). The show will start at 8pm with DJ Fiona McSweeney spinning the decks until 2am.
.Planning has been lodged for a skate park on an 800 sq.m space on the green area just below the car park at Tralee Sports and Leisure Centre.
PLANNING has been lodged with Kerry County Council for an 800 sq.m skate park in the grounds of Tralee Sports and Leisure Centre.
The planning was lodged by Billy Downes on behalf of the Tralee Skate Park Community Group on March 1 and it is hoped that in time funding will be sourced through the Sports Capital Grants scheme. The project could cost around €250,000.
The plan is for an 800 sq.m skate park located south of the car park at Tralee Sports and Leisure Centre. Once completed, the park would be taken over as a municipal amenity by Kerry County Council.
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The park will have an open, spacious feel with challenging “street plaza” features. There will be elevated platforms, small scale ledges, ramps and rails to cater for skaters/bikers and wheelchair users.
The overall design will minimise crash potential and make use of the space so users can do a sequence of different tricks. The arrangement of skateboarding obstacles in the space shall cater for a number of skaters using the space at the same time.
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All structures will be wheelchair accessible and no platform will be higher than one metre (save for quarter pipes at 1.5m), thus limiting the fall height. The perimeter of the park will be protected by a 1.8m steel fence and the surface will be concrete/tarmacadam.
The Tralee Skate Park Community Group feels the park would provide an invaluable service and be an asset both to Tralee Sports and Leisure Centre and the local community.
Even if the application is granted, it could be some time before work starts as funding will have to come through for the project.
.At the presentation of a cheque from the Bon Secours to the UHK Chemotherapy Unit fund were, from left; Hospital Mission Leader at Bon Secours Owen McCarthy; Lana Raftery, Jack Diggins, Joseph Diggins, Mary Fitzgerald UHK, Teresa Walsh UHK, Elsa Cenaj and Manager of Bon Secours Tralee, TJ O’Connor. Photo by Dermot Crean
IT’S been over a month since the 12 couples took to the dance floor at Ballygarry House Hotel for ‘Sickly Come Dancing’ and the money is still coming in.
On Wednesday, the Bon Secours handed over a cheque for €1,500 to go towards the fund to extend the Chemotherapy unit at University Hospital Kerry in order to provide a purpose-built facility where patients can be treated with compassion, respect and dignity at all stage of the treatment process.
Over €65,000 has already been raised thanks to the ‘Sickly Come Dancing’ night — organised by the hospital’s social club — and donations from the public.
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Mary Fitzgerald and Teresa Walsh from University Hospital Kerry were present to accept the cheque and expressed their gratitude to the Bons.
“This is part of our Community Initiative Funding allocation for 2018 as every year we contribute to worthy causes in Kerry and further afield,” said Manager of Bon Secours Tralee, TJ O’Connor.
.Teacher Maryanne Lowney with students who organised activities for the ‘Pop-Up Gaeltacht’ last Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
COLÁISTE Gleann Lí marked Seachtain Na Gaeilge last week with their own ‘Pop-up Gaeltacht’ last Thursday.
Organised by the First Years, there was a host of activities including a raffle for Easter Eggs with the Healthy Haven canteen supplying the treats.
Every student made the effort for the day and the first year students even gave ‘The Walls Of Limerick’ a go, showing their dancing prowess.
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Teacher Maryanne Lowney said the day was a huge success and thanked all the pupils for participating on a day packed with fun, music, competitions and the cúpla focail!
Coláiste Gleann Lí students taking part in the ‘Pop-Up Gaeltacht’. Photo by Dermot Crean
WE’VE known about the talents of Seamus Harty for a while in Tralee, but today he got a bit of exposure on a national news website.
The 16 year old singer/songwriter was featured in a story on BreakingNews.ie by Tralee woman, Anna O’Donoghue. The website has around 490,000 like for its Facebook page and 44,000 twitter followers so that’s a good plug.
He was highlighted in the story as one to watch due to his undoubted talent and featured videos of his songs from Facebook and Instagram.
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Seamus, the son of Roger Harty and Bríd Murphy, is a fifth year in Mercy Mounthawk can be seen busking from time to time in town and beyond, as well as acting recently in ‘My Fair Lady’ on the Siamsa stage.
One of his videos posted on the Love Tralee/Save Tralee Facebook page has registered nearly 60,000 views.
He has also come to the attention of Paul Galvin in the past week when he tweeted and instagrammed about him. Who knows what’s next for Seamus.
A BLENNERVILLE man has been selected to participate in the Washington Ireland Program for Service and Leadership (WIP) this year.
Former Mercy Mounthawk pupil, Sean Dowling, will head to the USA with 29 other students from Ireland and Northern Ireland.
“It’s a real honour and privilege to be selected for such a fantastic programme,” said the UCC 3rd year student studying Financial Maths and Actuarial Science.
“I am really looking forward to working with great people over the next year and hopefully we can make a meaningful impact on communities both at home and abroad.”
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Each year, WIP selects 30 talented students to join its network of leaders and influencers by completing a 12-month program of service and leadership development, which includes a summer in Washington DC or New York City.
Selection for WIP 2018 was highly competitive with 300 students from across the island of Ireland competing for the opportunity to be on the class, and ultimately to become part of an active WIP alum network seeking to make a difference in their communities.
WIP inspires and develops promising leaders through an exceptional program committed to building a future of peace and prosperity for Northern Ireland and Ireland.
For over two decades WIP has brought together young leaders from a wide range of communities and backgrounds for an outstanding leadership and skills-development program.
The Washington Ireland Program has cause to celebrate in 2018 with notable alums serving as Taoiseach (Leo Varadkar, WIP Class of 2000), Lord Mayor of Belfast (Nuala McAllister, WIP Class of 2010), and in Westminster (Emma Little-Pengelly, WIP Class of 2002).
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar recently launched WIP’s New York Program by speaking about his experience on WIP at the Irish Consulate in New York City:
“It helped me develop my view of the wider world…and without it perhaps I wouldn’t be standing here today.”
If you would like to follow the progress of Sean and others this summer you can follow their blogs and view photos at www.wiprogram.org
FRESH from winning RTE’s Dancing on the Stars on Sunday, Jake Carter kicks off his national tour at the INEC Acoustic Club this Good Friday.
Following his success on Dancing With The Stars, Jake is keen to strap on his guitar and get back on the road with his band and perfrom his latest songs for his new found audience.
Jake embarks on a nationwide tour this April starting in Killarney. Jake and his band will perform a mix of his own hits and pop covers over a two hour show.
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Jake Carter has quickly developed a name for himself as the next big thing on the Irish pop music scene and his success last weekend won’t have done him any harm.
To date Jake has released four singles and an EP titled ‘Three Things’, which have all received raving reviews from his loyal fan base and from radio alike.
On Sunday last, after 3 months of competition Jake and his partner Karen Byrne were announced as winners of RTE’s Dancing with the Stars.
Tickets from €20 available now from www.inec.ie or 064 6671555
.Participants in last year’s Good Friday walk in aid of Kerry Hospice from The Tankard. Photo by Lisa O’Mahony.
GOOD Friday is just a couple of days away and people are being urged to support the two walks in aid of the Kerry Hospice in the Tralee area.
The Tralee walk will begin from The Grand Hotel at 10am on Friday, March 30. Walkers in the 22nd annual event will remember the late Ted Moynihan who passed away last month.
After the walk there will be tea and scones in The Grand Hotel for the participants.
Meanwhile, over at The Tankard, participants will set off on the Spa/Fenit Hospice Committee Jerry O’Sullivan Memorial Walk.
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This is 10k scenic route starting at the well known bar/restaurant at 11am. There will be refreshments afterwards at the Tankard.
All funds raised will go towards the upkeep of the new 15-bed Palliative Care Unit.
There will be other walks taking place in various other locations in the county including Killarney, Killorglin, Inch and Listowel.
Organisers are encouraging everyone to come out with their families and get active in the enjoyable events for a great cause and donate on the day.
.At the start of the Tír na nÓg Festival Fancy Dress Fun Run in the Town Park last year. Photo by Dermot Crean
WHILE the Easter Tea Party in the Ashe Hotel is sold out, there is still much to enjoy for youngsters at the upcoming Tír na nÓg Children’s Festival this weekend in Tralee.
First up is the free children’s party and puppet show at Caballs Toymaster on Saturday morning from 10am to 12 noon. This is always a big hit with young children.
Puppet shows are also taking place at Kerry County Museum over Saturday and Sunday, check out their Facebook page for more details.
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The Under 12’s Kids Fun Run in Tralee Town Park takes place on Saturday from 1pm with a warm up with some Zumba with Linda Flanagan, face painting, Easter Eggs, music and few special guests.
It costs €5 per child with registration forms to be handed back to Tralee Chamber Alliance. Hurt though because closing date for entries is tomorrow (Thursday).
The event is supported by Garveys Supervalu Tralee and TraleeOutlook, all profits are going to the Cashel Children’s ward at University Hospital Kerry. There will also be a raffle on the day with great prizes to be won.
FANCY testing the general knowledge for a great cause next week?
Well, the Irish Wheelchair Association Tralee branch is hosting their annual table quiz in the Greyhound Bar on Thursday, April 5 at 8.30pm.
Tables of four are €40 and there will be spot prizes and refreshments on the night. The association would appreciate any support and promise an entertaining evening.
.The planning notice on a fence at Slatts Car Park.
A PLANNING application has been lodged with Kerry County Council to build a pharmacy, cafe, medical offices and retail units adjacent to Slatts Car Park/John Joe Sheehy Road.
The application is to build a three-storey mixed use development (c.2,217m) to consist of a pharmacy, a cafe and three commercial/retail units at ground floor level, three office/medical service units at first floor level and three office/medical units at second floor level.
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If granted it would continue the growth of business in the area with Lidl’s new outlet opening last year and the new HSE Primary Care centre planned for the Centrepoint building, adjacent to Slatts Car Park.
There’s also work going on at the old John Mitchels pitch, adjacent to Aldi on John Joe Sheehy road, which will see a petrol station and other business located there.
People can inspect the planning application at offices of the planning authority Kerry County Council building in Rathass Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm.
.Some Tralee Toastmasters looking forward to a new season back in August 2017. Back row: Anthony Garvey, Donal McCarthy, Eamonn Bannan, Sergey Udaltsov, John McGillicuddy, front row: Derry Butler, Lily Tangney.
TWENTY-FIVE years ago, the world got a new Toastmasters club, established in Tralee.
The club grew, matured and now it is proud to be a fine member in the family of the Irish Toastmasters’ clubs.
To celebrate their anniversary, the club is holding an open event in Kerins O’Rahilly’s GAA club on Saturday, April 14.
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The night is a great opportunity for people interested in public speaking to mingle with toastmasters of all ages and experience levels – and together celebrate 25 years of great public speaking.
The festivities begin at 7.30pm and there will be finger food and drink and speeches from distinguished toastmasters and the opportunity for impromptu speaking for everyone.
There will be fun and entertainment. Cost for the evening is €20 which can be paid at the door. If you are attending, to book a place or for further details contact: Sergey Udaltsov (sergey.udaltsov@gmail.com, 087 9785901)
BALLRAÍOCHT (Membership): Club membership for all our juvenile players is now due. Spriocdáta: March 31st. Please ensure that your future star footballer is registered in time.Unregistered players are not covered by insurance and will not be permitted to play in official matches after March 31st. If you have not received a membership form please contact Club Secretary Elma Nix on 086 1053300 or email secretary at austinstacks.kerry@gaa.ie or alternatively pay online www.austinstacks.ie
PEIL FAOI 6: Peil an Domhnaigh….all our Sunday action will take place in Caherslee from now on. See you all, boys, after you’ve celebrated Easter Sunday and gobbled up you Easter eggs!
PEIL FAOI 8: (i) Caherslee is the place to be at 11.00am on Sunday. (ii) On Wedneday next, April 4th, we will be participating in the U8 Kerry County Board football blitz. Players, expect text. This will be exciting!
PEIL FAOI 10: (i) Dé Domhnaigh ag 11am i gCathair Sailí le haghaidh peile. (ii) On Wedneday next, April 5th, we will take part in the U10 Kerry County Board football blitz. Players, expect text.
PEIL FAOI 12: (i) ‘Well done’ to all for excellent performances in both games v An Ghaeltacht i nGallaras last Saturday afternoon agus mórbhuíochas ó chroí to our hosts for their friendship and sportsmanship, cairdeas agus cothrom na Féinne. In addition to our midweek challenge game this week, we look forward to a trip to Legion on Easter Monday (2nd). It is important that as many as possible make these matches in preparation for the upcoming county leagues. Regular training will be replaced by matches in the run-up to the Easter weekend and parents will be notified of further arrangements early next week. Let’s keep up the progress! Ní bhíonn damhsa gan dua (no success without effort)! (iii) Lee Strand County League fixtures:- DIVISIONs 1A and 1B: 8th April (Sunday 6pm) – Kilcummin v AdeS (away); 15th April – AdeS (home) v Laune Rangers; 22nd April – AdeS (home) v Ráth Mhór; 29th April – B/mac v AdeS; 6th May – Crócaigh v AdeS. DIVISION 9: 8th April (Domhnach 6pm) – AdeS v B/donoghue; 15th April – Asdee/Bally v AdeS; 22nd April – AdeS v Ballyheigue; 29th April – Scartaglin v AdeS; – 6th May – Naomh Pádraig v AdeS.
RULES FOR UNDER 12 FOOTBALL LEAGUE: 1. a goal scored after the 5th goal counts as a point; 2. games are to be 25 minutes per half; 3. the player who is fouled takes the free kick; 4. a sideline kick is to be taken by the player nearest to where the ball goes out; 5. it is recommended that all players play for at least 25 minutes in each game; 6. the number of substitutions is unlimited; 7. play is restricted to one hop and one solo; 8. all kick outs are from the hand and from within the small parallelogram; 9. the dimensions of the small parallelogram are 1.2m out from the goalposts and 3m from the end line; 10. all 45s are to be taken off the ground from 36 metres; 11. no foot dribbling, i.e. no more that two foot-touches along the ground are permitted; 12. size 4 footballs are to be used; 13. for all U12 games, the ‘square ball’ rule will apply but there will be NO PENALTIES; 14. maximum number of players on team is 11; 15. B teams may be 9-aside or 10-aside; 16. clubs with three teams must submit their first 11 and second 11 two days before the second-round games; 17. the dimensions of the playing pitch will be circa 90 metres long and circa 45 metres wide; 18. if a team has an issue about the eligibility of an opposing player, a mentor should request the referee to take the player’s name and to get the player’s signature and date of birth; 19. if the home pitch is unplayable, the onus is on the home team to find an alternative venue, subject to agreement with the coordinator; 20. clubs are obliged to find an alternative referee if their own club referee is not available; 21. a team wishing to change a fixture (i) must agree to the change with the opposing team, (ii) must agree to a new date with the opposing team, (iii) must notify the coordinator, the PRO and the referee and (iv) must arrange the appointment of a referee for the new fixture.
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR UNDER 12 LEAGUE: 1. all players in their final year (dhá bhliain déag d’aois) must play for at least half the game. 2. players who are two years younger than the age limit may NOT play IF there are players older than them on the sideline (e.g. U10 players may NOT play on the U12 team IF any 11s or 12s are on the sideline).
PEIL FAOI 14: (i) Our Under 14 indoor training is being held in the club gym on Thursdays at 5.45pm. (ii) Our Sunday outdoor training venue: expect text. (iii) TDB U14 League games: (a) DIVISION 1: Our A team played v Na Gaeil on Wednesday 21st and, after an epic encounter in Connolly Park, our boys were victorious. As three teams were tied at the top of the league table and as three teams can’t play in a final, it was decided to toss a coin chun an fhadhb a réiteach and, as a result, The Rock boys have advanced to this year’s final while Strand Road and Na Gaeil will meet in a play-off to decide which team gets the privilege of playing us in the final! A mouth-watering prospect! Date and venue to be decided. (b)
DIVISION 3: Our B team contested this year’s Town League final v Ballymac in Healy Park and, after a fantastic team performance, our lads defeated our opponents. Even with several key players missing, we managed to line out 23 able-bodied young Rock men who overcame the challenge of Ballymac. Bhí bua cuimhsitheach ag an gCarraig. Captain on the day, Rohan Grattan, graciously accepted the Town League Trophy on behalf of his teammates and he thanked the large crowd in attendance. We’d like to make special mention of all seven of the U12 panel who have helped us throughout this tournament and we look forward to your help again, boys, when the county league kicks off on Wednesday night. All the great work and effort is certainly showing with this very talented young side and ‘well done’ to all! Toradh iontach! (iv) County League fixtures: (a) DIVISION 1: Our a boys played away v Laune Rangers at 6.30pm on Wednesday March 28th. (b) Division 9: The B team played at home v Milltown/Castlemaine at 6.30pm on Wednesday March 28th.
PEIL FAOI 15: On Saturday next we’ll make our annual trip to Fermoy for the Pa O’Brien Tournament. Beidh an-lá againn cois Abhann Móire.
ROCK PLAYER WINS GOLD: Congratulations to Rock footballer, Jordan Kissane, representing Tralee Harriers and Kerry, who won gold (1st place) in the 200m race in the recent National Athletic Championships. Mórghaisce agus éacht thar na bearta!
PEIL FAOI 16: (i) Training for our Under 16 players will take place on Fridays and on Sundays. (ii) (a) The first U16 Central League match for our A team was played (ag baile) on Monday last (26th) v Laune Rangers. (a) The B team’s match v St Pats has been fixed for Good Friday. Thanks to the St Pats club for accommodating us with this refixture. Nach trua gur ar Aoine an Chéasta a tá sé! (iii) The U16 Central League Division 1 game v An Ghaeltacht will be played (as baile) ag 7pm ar an Luan seo chugainn, April 2nd.
SCÓR na bPÁISTÍ: (i) ‘Well done’ to our Scór na bPáistí representatives, Aoife Trant (amhránaíocht aonair) agus Abi Nic Conmara (scéalaíocht), both of whom performed admirably and were pipped in very high standard competitions. Let’s hope that they’ll have another ‘go’ next year.(ii) The county finals will take place at 2pm on Sunday April 22nd i Halla Pobail na Faille Móire. The county final quiz will be held at 11am on Sunday April 22n in the Intermediate Secondary School Killorglin. There’s still time to enter a 4-person quiz team!
SEANFHOCAIL: (i) .Mairg gur beag leis Dia (woe to him who is not content with God); (iii) Ní raibh iasc riamh ag liairne díomhaoin (a lazy slovenly person never caught a fish). (iii) Ná déan nós is ná bris nós (don’t start a new trend; don’t BREAK AN OLD CUSTOM).
CAMPAÍ ‘CÚL’: (i) Football camp in Connolly Park from 2nd to 6th July. (ii) Hurling camp in Caherslee from 13th to 17th August.
The Division 2 Kerry Mixed Doubles Championships took place Killarney Sports & Leisure Centre Friday 23 March. Pictured; Saoirse Fitzgerald & Donnacha Moloney Moyvane in action and went on to win the Div 2 Mixed Doubles Final. Photo by Thomas Bradley
Kerry Badminton News from Junior Griffin
Friday night last, March 23rd, 2018 saw the final stages of the closing programme of another Kerry Badminton Association, CPC.IE sponsored, County Championships at the Killarney Sports Arena and on the night it was the divisions 2 &4 mixed doubles championships that took to the courts.
In division 4 alone there were no less that 24 pairs competing and what a wonderful competition this proved to be
On the previous Monday night in Killarney also the ladies and mens doubles for the same 2 divisions held court in the refixed championships following the early March snowfall and in the div 4 mens doubles it was the Killarney pairing of Liam Barry and Ger O’Connor that scaled the heights to win that title and on Friday night last it was the same Ger O’Connor that collected County title number 2 within 5 days after failing no less than 3 times in the past to garnish that coveted County crown.
O’Connor was partnered on Friday last with Listowels Jill Redmond who was herself competing in her first County final and their opposition were the talented Causeway pairing of Fiona Casey and James O’Mahony. In a close first set it was the Listowel/Killarney pairing that came out on top by 21-17.
Set number 2 saw the Causeway pairing take command from the outset and led at one stage by 12-4 and it was they who went to set point at 20-17 and it looked like that the third set would be the decider but Redmond/O’Connor never yielded and in no time at all the set was all square at 20 each and amazingly they went on to win the set and County title by 22-20 after that trail blazing finish
Though playing out of Killarney the gallant O’Connor is a Valentia native and makes that long journey for training to Killarney at least twice a week that would cover over 100 miles per trip. Surely such dedication to any sport like that is worthy of a County All Star selection.
The division 2 decider proved to be an all Moyvane confrontation which saw Sorcha Fitzgerald and Donnacha Moloney take on Elaine Hudson and Donie Enright.
Like O’Connor in the division 4 decider the brave Moloney also won his second County title within the 5 days as he had captured the division 2 mens title , also with a Listowel partner, James Leane whilst Ms Fitzgerald was a finalist in the ladies div 2 final the previous Monday. In a close 2 setter Fitzgerald/Moloney came good over Hudson/Enright by 21-17; 21-17
The Ladies & Mens division 5 finals sponsored by the Sea Lodge Restaurant, Waterville, plus the Masters tournaments, sponsored by Ashes Bar, Glenbeigh, finals were played in Moyvane on Thursday night last and a large crowd witnessed some fine badminton.
In the ladies div 5 decider it was an all Moyvane confrontation with the A side having the better of the B side. In the mens decider it was victory for Annascaul over Moyvane.
In the ladies Masters the combined Listowel/Moyvane under the stewardship of Jeanelle Griffin overcame the Kathleen Gilbride Ballyheigue selection after the sides finished level at 5 games each but the Listowel/Moyvane combination came good on the count back of aces by 192 to 185
In the Mens Masters the William Flaherty Moyvane selection overcame the Listowel James Sheehan’s side by 5-3
Forthcoming events include the County Masters tournaments, over 40, to take place in the Killarney Presentation Gym on Friday night next march 30th to commence at 8 pm. All interested are reminded to enter not later than this Wednesday,
The County leagues which commenced in November are now nearing completion. The div 3 league had just the three clubs competing, namely Castleisland, Killarney and Moyvane and this was played on the home and away round robin basis and it was Moyvane who came out on top there.
The division 2 league campaign is running behind time and no clear picture has emerged as who will qualify.
The division 4 final will see Ballyheigue do battle with Moyvane whilst in div 5 Moyvane are once again in another decider where their opponents will be Castleisland.
These finals will take place over 2 nights on April 3rd & 4th with venues to be decided.
To mark the 30th anniversary of the death of Paddy Sugrue, former Tralee County Club chairman and president and also former Kerry President, former County Club members will revive the Paddy Sugrue tournaments to be played on Sunday April 8th at the Tralee Sports Centre.
Entry fee will be €10 per player with all proceeds to be donated to the Tralee and District Chernobyl Childrens Fund who are doing such wonderful work since 1993 , so badminton players from throughout the County are requested to support these tournaments.
Whether playing or otherwise your presence and support for this worthy cause would be much appreciated. Entry forms are now with each club.
The Munster singles and doubles winners finals took place in the UL , Limerick on Sunday last and there were notable successes for Kerry players.
At Grade C which would be the senior Grade, Moyvanes James Flaherty won out the mens singles section whilst in the ladies Grade C section Castleislands Edel Broderick and Miriam Rohan captured the ladies doubles title with Tom Bourke and Eric Nelligan runners up in the mens doubles final.
Grade D saw Killarneys Maeve Twomey and Moyvanes Elaine Hudson win out the ladies Grade D doubles final with Sinead Galvin of Killarney being the ladies singles runner up. In the Grade E doubles decider Brendan McGovern and Aidan McCarthy of the Castleisland Club were worthy winners of the mens doubles title.
The Grade G competition saw double gold coming to Kerry. The ladies doubles title was captured by the Moyvane/Ballyheigue combination of Ciara Hudson and Paula O’Sullivan and this grade also saw the mixed doubles title being won by Listowels Jill Redmond and Ger O’Connor representing the Killarney Club. All in all, a most rewarding day for Kerry Badminton
Juvenile Badminton
Kerry Juvenile Mixed Doubles Championships Saturday 24 March at Killarney Sports & Leisure Centre. Pictured, from left; Winners of the Un 15 Mixed Doubles Championships, Christopher O’Donoghue Moyvane & Adele O’Brien Killarney along with Runners Up, Ciara Knightley & Cathal Donovan Annascaul. Photo by Thomas Bradley
Saturday last in the Killarney Centre saw the close of the Kerry Badminton juvenile season where well over one hundred girls and boys competed in the mixed doubles championships for the age groups of under 11/13/15/17. Results as follows;
U11 Stephanie Reid and Ruadhan Donovan Annascaul defeated Darina Ellen Burke and Diarmuid Quirke Milltown 15/12, 15/10
U13 Ava MacKay and Tomas O’Sullivan Listowel defeated Mary Casey and Liam Newsome Annascaul 21/11, 21/11
U15 Adele O’Brien Killarney and Christopher O’Donoghue Moyvane defeated Ciara Knightly and Cathal Donovan Annascaul 21/14, 21/7
U17 Aoife Bowler Moyvane and Niall O’Brien Killarney defeated Ciara Hudson Moyvane and Luke O’Loughlin Castleisland 19/21, 21/15, 21/9
U11 Plate Megan Brosnan and Jack Lyne Annascaul defeated Grace McGovern and Jack Burke Castleisland
U13 Plate Ellie Ava Liston Listowel and Jack O’Keeffe Killarney defeated Molly O’Donoghue and Abir Kazir Killarney
u15 Plate Deina Vesko Listowel and Navansh Johnson Killarney defeated Ella Galvin and Darragh Crehan Killarney
U17 Plate Fiona Galvin and Oisin Moran Killarney defeated Olivia Wesolowska and Dara Lawlor Killarney
A hard weekend for Tralee Boxing Club, as three boxers travelled to the National Stadium for All Irelands semi/finals.
John, Mike, Patrick McCarthy, along with Tommy & Noel (coaches} took the long road on Friday evening last for weigh in & boxing early Saturday morning.
For one reason or another, none of the three boxed their best as all three were beaten. Roll on the Senior Cadets in June/July.
On Sunday morning Christopher Mongans & Shane Coffey with coach Doniejack headed for Limerick for Munster Finals.
Christopher retained his Munster won last year beating Tommy O Brien of Vikings BC. Abbyfeale.
Shane had a return bout with Donnacha Sayers of Cashenvale BC. which was Kerry County Final 3 weeks ago while Shane improved a pile it wasnt enough to dislodge Sayers who retained his title.
So it’s on to the All Irelands for Christopher our only contender left in the Irish Championships.
Our U12A were at the wrong side of a 3 – 1 scoreline in Christy Leahy Park, Having dominated the first half but were unable to find a way past a very solid Athletic back line. Two quick goals were conceded just after half time made it an uphill task.
We did manage to get it back to 2-1 with Bruno Browzy putting the ball in Athletic’s net and almost levelled the game when Seamus Kelly had his shot saved all by the feet of the Athletic keeper. Soon after that Athletic forced a corner and an own goal finished the game as a contest. Best for us were Immanuel Manu Ciarian Kavanagh with MOTM going to Eldon Topalli
.Eoin Liston, Philip Sicat, Denis Murphy and Mark Corkery collect their Life & Pensions Broker of the Year Award from Aidan McLoughlin ITC at the fifth annual Life, Pensions and Investment (LPI) Industry Awards in the Mansion House, Dublin, last Thursday night. Photo: David Kenna
FOR the second year in a row, Tralee based financial planning practice, Premier Financial, have won a top national industry accolade.
They scooped the prestigious Best Life & Pensions Broker of the Year Award at the fifth annual Life, Pensions and Investment (LPI) Industry Awards in the Mansion House, Dublin, last Thursday night.
Premier Financial Directors’, Mark Corkery and Denis Murphy were presented with the Best Life & Pensions Broker of the Year Award 2018 on stage by Aidan McLoughlin ITC.
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Last year, the financial services and planning Consultancy based on Beechgrove House, Strand Street, Tralee, won the LPI Best Investment Broker in Ireland Award.
The annual Irish Broker’s Association Life, Pensions and Investment Awards give recognition to financial brokers who have proven their excellence, professionalism and dedication to maintaining high standards in the Irish marketplace.
Over 530 financial services professionals from all over Ireland attend the LPI Awards Gala, a celebratory night to recognise and commend those at the forefront of their industry.
REV Fr Padraig Walsh, PP, launched a new book on The Bible by a Tralee man before a well attended and appreciative audience at St Brendan’s Pastoral Centre in Tralee last Saturday.
The new publication ‘For It Is Written’, penned by Mike Culloty, explores the connections between the Old and the New Testaments of the Bible in the person of Jesus Christ.
Mayor of Tralee, Norma Foley, praised the author for undertaking such a formidable task and producing such a wonderful and informative commentary on the Bible and its contents.
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Anne Alcock likewise was highly complimentary on the manner in which the book was written and how it succeeded in achieving its objective of joining the dots between the Old and the New Testaments.
Rev Fr Padraig Walsh in his address congratulated the author on what was for him an excellent introduction to the Bible.
“The Old Testament is difficult to understand for many people,” he said, “but Mike has succeeded in making it accessible for ordinary people and making the connections between the Old and New in the person and ministry of Jesus easily understood”.
In his response, Mike expressed his thanks to all who have helped him be able to produce and publish such a book, which he said he was writing because of his own experience in the Word and his desire to share that understanding with others in a manner that was easily read and easy to follow.
“The Bible today retains its place at the centre of every Christian liturgical celebration-irrespective of denomination,” said Mike.
“In it we find the revelation of a God in communion and relationship with the Universe and everything in it. We find the response of individuals and communities to this God of Love as it unfolds across the pages; we learn of the person and ministry of Jesus, of the healing, forgiveness and salvation offered freely to us in him; and we learn of the promise of the Indwelling Holy Spirit”.
In his concluding remarks he stated that “It is my hope that the book ‘For It Is Written’ will help others discover the divine spark within, by joining the dots between the Old and New in the person of Christ, by encouraging people to read the Word for themselves, in the full knowledge that the Spirit of Truth will guide you into all truth, as promised by Jesus, who is with us always”.
The book is now available at Polymaths, O’Mahonys and First Chapter costing €12.
John McCann says ‘Mary Magdelene is a well-crafted biblical tale that just falls short of director Garth Davis’ standard…
THE three Applegreen service stations in Tralee are giving out a free coffee or tea to drivers today (Friday) and Monday.
FANCY testing the general knowledge for a great cause next week?
Rev Fr Padraig Walsh in his address congratulated the author on what was for him an excellent introduction to the Bible.