Tralee Group Takes On Charity Cycle From ‘Castle To Castle’

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John Dennis, Joe Grace, Muireann Dowling, Mark Sheehy and Fergal O’Sullivan looking forward to the cycle from Castlebar to The Castle Bar next week. Photo by Dermot Crean

A GROUP of cyclists from Tralee are taking an unusual route next week from ‘castle to castle’ in aid of the Kerry Hospice Foundation.

Mark Sheehy from Tralee and Michael Ferriter from Castlegregory have organised a cycle from Castlebar in Mayo to The Castle Bar in Tralee from Thursday, August 5 to Saturday, August 7.

Mark explained how the idea came about. “We did a cycle from Dublin to Kerry last year in aid of a soup kitchen set up by a friend of ours in Dublin last year so we had a good experience and said we’d do something different this year.”

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That cycle raised thousands for a great cause so the lads had such fun they wanted to do go on another trip. Mark had heard a story about a couple of local lads from town who went on a leisurely cycle one day and somehow ended up in Castlebar in Mayo so that inspired the idea.

Next Thursday, the group of 12 are going from Castlebar to Galway on the first day, then travelling on a coastline route to Clare, ending up in Lahinch on Friday and on to Tralee on Saturday for some refreshments in Rock Street hostelry.

Mark’s grandfather Noel Loughran passed away last year and the Palliative Care Unit provided amazing care for him, so it was decided to raise the money for that great cause.

The cyclists taking part are Mark Sheehy, John Joe Sheehy, Muireann Dowling, Joe Grace, Eamon Sayers, Gavin Duffy, Will Crean, John Dennis, Donal Lyons, Mike Ferriter, Mike Quilter and Derek Donoghue and Aisling O’Brien is in the support car sponsored by Adams of Tralee while Jackie Power Buses are bring them up to Castlebar.

A gofundme  page has been set up and it has realised nearly €5,000 so far (as of 1.15pm on Saturday). If you’d like to support the cycle click here to go to the gofundmepage.

Thousands Raised For UHK Thanks To North Kerry Teenagers

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At the presentation of the cheque were members of the Listowel Youth group comprised members Conor Stack, David Canty, Ellen Godfrey, Fiona O’Connor, Hannah O’Connor, John Godfrey and Sophie Stack. Also involved were Youth Workers;  Emer O’Neill and Brian Godfrey and Parish Priest, Canon Declan O’Connor.Gemma Brosnan, EDRGN, Dr Ahmed Abdelaziz, Medical Reg and Joe Cahill

A GROUP of young people from Listowel made a presentation 0f €3,368 to University Hospital Kerry on Friday afternoon after walking from the north Kerry town to Tralee.

The General Manager of UHK, Fearghal Grimes, along with both medical and nursing  representative front line workers, formally accepted a cheque from members of Listowel Parish Youth Group Hospital Fundraiser.

The youth group completed a sponsored walk from St Mary’s Parish Church Listowel to UHK in Tralee to raise funds for the for the staff as a thank you for their selfless and heroic work through Covid 19.

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The Parish Youth Group Listowel (part of the community in St Mary’s Listowel)  sponsored event was planned over five legs which youth members, leaders and supported by parents on the day walked in relay of pairs with a safety car.

The group completed the last leg together to arrive at the hospital at 3.30pm to present a cheque of funds raised.

The youth group who took part comprised members Conor Stack, David Canty, Ellen Godfrey, Fiona O’Connor, Hannah O’Connor, John Godfrey and Sophie Stack.

Also involved in the  fundraiser were Youth Workers  Emer O’Neill and Brian Godfrey and Parish Priest, Canon Declan O’Connor.

Know Your Rights: Advocacy Service

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Question: I was in hospital recently and I was not happy with my experience there. When I complained to the nurse in charge I wasn’t satisfied with the response. How can I take my complaint further?

Answer: The Health Service Executive (HSE) has a complaints system, called Your service your say, that you can use to make a complaint about your experience of a service provided by the HSE or on behalf of the HSE.

If you want to make a complaint about a public hospital to the HSE, you can get support from the Patient Advocacy Service to help you make your complaint.

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The Patient Advocacy Service is fully independent of the HSE. It is a free and confidential service that can provide you with information to support you to make a formal complaint about an experience you have had in a public acute hospital.

The Patient Advocacy Service provides support by phone helpline, on 0818 293003, and on its website, patientadvocacyservice.ie. You can also email info@patientadvocacyservice.ie.

The service can explain how to make a formal complaint, including what you should include in your complaint and how to write it.

If there is a delay with the processing of the complaint or if you are not satisfied with the outcome, the Patient Advocacy Service can give you information about your options.

If you have a question about the Patient Advocacy Service, but you are not looking for information or support in relation to the care you have experienced, you can submit a contact form on its website.

Further information is available from the Citizens Information Centre below.

• During COVID-19, you can find comprehensive integrated information online at citizensinformation.ie/covid19/ and you can get daily updates on what’s changed on Twitter at @citizensinfo. You can also get information and advice from:

Tralee on Tel: Call 0761 07 7860, Monday – Friday (10am-4pm)
The Citizens Information Phone Service: Call 0761 07 4000, Monday to Friday, 9am – 8pm
Our national call back service: Visit citizensinformation.ie/callback to request a phone call from an information officer

Finnegan On Films: Incredible Choice Of Great Movies This Weekend

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There is always a good selection of films on RTE and TG4 over a Bank Holiday and, thank goodness, this coming weekend is no different, says our movie guy, James Finnegan…

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (Saturday 6.35pm RTE1) is the fourth in the series and somewhat appropriately in these Olympic times has a sporting theme.

It is Harry’s fourth year at Hogwarts, and he is unexpectedly chosen to compete in the Triwizard Tournament being held there.

The challenges involve taking on deadly challenges and monsters, so slightly easier than the Olympics.  One of the best films in the series and the young ones will love it.

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You wait ages for a Robin Hood film, and then two come together.  Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves (Saturday 9.00pm RTE2) is a modern interpretation that plays with the conventions a little bit but is still good fun.

It stars Kevin Costner as Robin, Morgan Freeman as Azeem, Christian Slater as Will Scarlett, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio as Marian, but especially Alan Rickman, spectacularly chewing the scenery as the Sheriff of Nottingham, stealing the film from the then more established stars.

You will recognise the theme tune by Bryan Adams and it will be in your head for the rest of the weekend.

On the other hand, the original classic against which all others are judged, is The Adventures of Robin Hood (Sunday 1.40 RTE1). 

Together with his band of Merry Men, Robin Hood (Errol Flynn) robs from the rich to give to the poor, while at the same time wooing the lovely Lady Marian (Olivia de Havilland, fighting the dastardly Sir Guy of Gisbourne (Basil Rathbone) and trading quips with Prince John (Claude Rains).

It also has the best swordfight in cinema history between Robin and Sir Guy.

On the weekend we commemorate her passing, Tara Road (Sunday 9.30 RTE1) is the film version of Maeve Binchy’s book of the same name.

Two women, Marilyn (Andie MacDowell) in Connecticut and Ria (Olivia Williams) in Dublin are facing life changing crises.

They need to get away to process their next step so arrange a two month house swap to consider their future.  Also starring Ian Glen, Stephen Rea and Maria Doyle Kennedy among other familiar faces, fans of the author will be very satisfied by this adaption.

The Magnificent Seven (Monday 3.20 RTE1) is simply one of my favourite Westerns.  A Mexican Village is under threat from a Bandit gang.

They hire an experienced gunslinger (Yul Brynner) who rounds up six more guns for hire to fight them off. Also starring Steve McQueen, Charles Bronson, Robert Vaughan, James Coburn and Eli Wallach, this is the definitive Bank Holiday film.

Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy (Monday 9.30 TG4) is a wonderfully atmospheric spy story of a former intelligence officer brought out of retirement to uncover a secret

Soviet double agent high up in MI6. It stars Gary Oldman, Benedict Cumberbatch, John Hurt, Tom Hardy and Colin Firth. Enjoy and stay safe!

Take A ‘Dip In The Nip’ For Recovery Haven

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RECOVERY Haven has announced details of a fun and novel fundraising event coming up on September 18th for ladies only.

The Cancer Support facility has joined forces with Fenit-based Wild Water Adventures for ‘Dip in The Nip Kerry’.

The  collaboration is the first of its kind in the Kingdom, where women of all ages are being invited to bare all and take to the water on September 18, to raise funds for Recovery Haven Kerry.

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The event is open to all women – including those who have experienced cancer themselves, those who are supporting a friend or family member on their cancer journey or those who want to remember and honour a loved one who they have lost to the disease.

The location of the event will be kept top secret until a few days beforehand, but organisers are promising a truly fun and exhilarating morning for all involved with music, refreshments and some great prizes up for grabs after the dip.

Registration is now open via the following link: https://www.eventbrite.ie/…/kerrys-first-dip-in-the-nip

Entry is €40 (+ booking fee) with all participants receiving a custom swimming cap, a medal to mark their participation and free entry to a raffle for some great prizes.

Pre-registration is vital, however, as entries cannot be processed on the morning of the event.

Volunteers Collect Over 30 Bags Of Rubbish From Banna Beach

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Volunteers collecting rubbish at Banna on Thursday night.

BANNA Coastcare’s first ever evening event last night and it was a huge success despite the weather.

Approximately 50 volunteers, including lots of youngsters, collected around 33 bags which were picked up by Kerry County Council collected them from Banna today.

Salty Souls provided free hot chocolate to all the younger volunteers who spent about an hour cleaning up.

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“Generally we find a mix of terrestrial and marine litter but due to the large crowds, and fine weather we found larger amounts of terrestrial litter, massive amounts of drink cans / bottles collected,” said Rachel Geary of Banna Coastcare.

They will be be arranging another clean up in August so watch out for notices on the Banna Coastcare Facebook page.

Volunteers collecting rubbish at Banna on Thursday night.
The bags of rubbish collected.

Sponsored: Cara Credit Union Celebrates Opening Of The 3,000th Current Account

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STEPHEN Crookes from Mount Eagle, Brosna got a pleasant surprise when he recently opened a Cara Credit Union Current Account and applied for a globally accepted Mastercard Debit Card.

As Cara Credit Union celebrated opening 3,000 current account since its launch in late 2019, they gifted Stephen with a cash prize to spend on his new Mastercard Debit Card.

Speaking to Stephen, he said; “ I was delighted when I heard the credit union had a current account with a debit card. I have been a loyal member of the credit union for many years, and I am delighted that I can do all my banking with them now.”

The Cara Credit Union Current Account includes the globally accepted Mastercard Debit Card with contactless payments, standing orders, direct debits, and the option of an overdraft facility.

The Current Account has simple and transparent pricing, making it one of the best value current accounts on the market.

A low monthly fee of €4.00 applies and that covers unlimited euro point of sale and contactless transactions, unlimited mobile and online banking and unlimited standing orders and direct debit processing and up to five euro ATM withdrawals per month.

The Credit Union current account is Apple Pay, Google Pay and Fitbit Pay enabled. Students and members over the age of 66 are eligible for free banking (T&Cs apply).

Pa Laide, CEO of Cara Credit Union added, “ The introduction of our Mastercard Debit Card has been a game-changer for our members. We are now in a position whereby our loyal members can do all their day-to-day banking with their local credit union, from anywhere in the world. As a not-for-profit organisation, we can put our members at the heart of what we do, this means we will continue to invest in products and services which enhance the lives of our members and the communities we serve in. “

If you would like to find our more about the Cara Credit Union current account , see their website www.caracreditunion.ie or call 066 712 2373.

Almost €10m In Funding Announced For Kerry Healthcare Services

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ALMOST €10 million investment of capital funding to support Kerry Healthcare services has been announced by Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly this morning.

In total €9,710,000  is being announced for Kerry Healthcare, including almost €5 million for significant refurbishment works for Listowel, Killarney and Cahersiveen Hospitals.

University Hospital Kerry will receive targeted investment to enhance and upgrade maternity services including an obstetrics theatre and  provision of post Covid 19 specific care units.

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Kerry Fianna Fáil TD and Minister for Education, Norma Foley has welcomed the announcement.

The full list of projects is:

• Kerry General Hospital – Will receive €1.7 million for a Blood Science Project (Extension & Refurbishment of existing pathology laboratory to facilitate management services tender.)

• Kerry General Hospital  – Will receive €750,000 for the creation of 5 No. new single ensuite rooms in an existing admin area (Rathass Ward).

• Kerry General Hospital – Funding will also be made available to decant and relocate specific UHK Outpatient Services to recently completed PCC in Tralee: (To optimise patient care while minimising risks to the public, to healthcare staff, and to the wider healthcare service.)

• Kerry General Hospital – In total €400,000 Maternity birthing development to include triage assessment, 8 bed anti natal ward, 3 bedroom induction rooms, 4 birthing rooms and ancillary accommodation.

• University Hospital Kerry – Almost €11 million was set aside for the provision of an additional Theatre (Obstetrics) plus upgrade of existing theatres and plant in 2020 as part of a five year Capital programme. This year €900,000 will be invested in the project.

• University Hospital Kerry – €200,000 will be provided for a new addressable emergency lighting system.

• University Hospital Kerry – €1 million will be provided for the reconfiguration of existing HDU to deliver five post Covid HDU compliant beds (with potential to increase to six beds).

• University Hospital Kerry – has already been provided with a second CT Scanner for UHK.

• University Hospital Kerry – €150,000 has been invested in a new UHK Water Infrastructure Replacement.

• Caherciveen Hospital will receive €2.28 million for refurbishment and extension works.

• The will also receive €50,000 for the provision of a new ambulance station in Cahirciveen.

• Killarney – CNU – Replacement via PPP for 130 bed facility (figure to be released later)

• Listowel Community Hospital will receive €2.28 million for refurbishment and extension works.

Bakesale Raises Funds For Old Forge Museum In Churchill

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Lisa Cassidy, Molly McDaid and Mary Jo Daly with some of the goodies at the Bakesale on July 10.

YOUNG ladies from the local area raised €650 recently in aid of the Old Forge Museum in Churchill.

Molly McDaid, Aoife Greaney, Lisa Cassidy and Mary Jo Daly organised the event with Peggy Daly and the community donated an array of cakes, breads, buns and other goodies.

They received huge support after Mass on Saturday, July 1o, resulting in the large sum being raised. Spa Fenit Community Council thanked the ladies for their endeavours when they received the cheque at the Forge on Tuesday.

Joan Harmon, Peggy Daly, Eileen O’Sullivan and Colette O’Sullivan at the Bake Sale on July 10.
Lisa Cassidy, Aoife Greaney and Molly McDaid present a cheque for €650 to Gráinne Landers of the Spa Fenit Community Council. Photo by Dermot Crean

51 New COVID Cases In Tralee LEA In Fortnight Up To Last Monday

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THERE were 51 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the Tralee Local Electoral Area in the 14 day period up to Monday, July 26, according to figures available on the Government’s COVID-19 data hub.

This is a 14-day incidence rate of 154.4 per 100,000 of the population, almost treble the incidence of 54.4 per 100,000 in the fortnight up to July 19.

It’s still the second lowest rate of the six LEAs in the county though and less than half of the national incidence rate of 344.2 per 100,000 as of Monday.

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The Killarney Electoral Area saw 93 new cases, a current 14-Day Incidence Rate of 314.1 per 100k of the population.

The Listowel Electoral Area saw a large increase with 98 new cases and a rate of 341.8 per 100,000. The Castleisland LEA saw 45 new cases and a rate of 262.5 per 100,000.

There were 55 cases in the Kenmare Electoral Area (a rate of 219.5 per 100,000) and 16 cases in the Corca Dhuibhne area (a rate of 112.8 per 100,000).

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Here’s The Line-Up For The Pop-Up Drive-In Cinema In Tralee

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The Goonies is one of the movies showing at the Pop-Up Drive-In cinema.

AS you probably know there’s a Pop-Up Drive-In Cinema coming to town next week and the line-up has been announced.

Reel Events Kerry is conjunction with the Aqua Dome will be hosting movies on the big screen on August 7-8 at the Aqua Dome Car Park.

There are four films scheduled over the two days and it’s safe to say they’re all classics if you grew up in the 80s (and the late 70s in one case).

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First up is the enjoyable and heartwarming the 1985 adventure comedy, The Goonies, on Saturday, August 7 at 5pm.

Next up is the timeless classic Grease, on Saturday August 7 at 8pm, which sure to have you dancing on the bonnet of the car.

Olivia Newton-John and John Travolta in Grease.

Get reacquainted with Doc and Marty when another 1985 gem, Back to the Future is screened on Sunday August 8 at 5pm.

And finally, have your breath taken away by Tom Cruise and Kelly McGillis in the 1986 action movie, Top Gun on Sunday August 8 at 8pm. Tickets can be booked by clicking here

Daly’s Concerns About Online Abuse Against Kerry Hospitality Businesses

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Deputy Pa Daly.

KERRY’S Sinn Féin TD has today spoken about his concern over online abuse of Kerry businesses and said social media companies have a greater role to play.

Deputy Pa Daly was referring to comments on social media directed towards hospitality businesses’ opening indoors this week.

“I am disappointed but not surprised to see the abuse of pubs, restaurants and other hospitality businesses through their social media outlets,” said Deputy Daly.

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“Comments and messages are one thing, and some of the language has been unacceptable. However moderation tools can be used in those instances to mitigate some of the damage.

“However reviews are another matter, as these cannot usually be moderated by the business in question. Businesses spend a great deal of time and money curating their online reputations through offering a good service, but are now facing co-ordinated attacks from a small group with a pernicious agenda.

“Sinn Féin voted against the latest government proposals on hospitality, as we felt they were unfair and unworkable. However, I support the decision of business owners and workers to open or not to open under these circumstances,” he said.

“Co-ordinated efforts like this have been targeted towards vulnerable groups in the past, and whilst this abuse is not of the same character, social media companies cannot continue to make excuses over the tactics used,” concluded Deputy Daly.

Almost €500,000 Allocated For Non-Public Roads In Rural Kerry

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A TOTAL of €1,187,099 has been allocated for repairs and improvement works on non-public roads in rural communities in Kerry this year, as part of the Government’s ‘Our Rural Future’ project.

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, announced an allocation of €10.5m nationally today, the second investment this year, as the same amount was announced in May.

Kerry received €689,930 back in the early summer and today it was announced the county would receive an additional €497,169.

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The Local Improvement Scheme (LIS) is designed to support the continued improvement of non-public roads in rural communities and improves access to rural homes and farms, as well as outdoor amenities such as our lakes, rivers, mountains and beaches.

These roads and laneways are not normally maintained by locally authorities but, nonetheless, represent a vital piece of infrastructure for rural residents.

The announcement was welcomed by Fine Gael Kerry Deputy Brendan Griffin and Minister for Education Norma Foley.

The LIS scheme was re-introduced in 2017 and over 10,000 landowners and rural residents nationwide have benefitted to date.

Roads eligible are non-public roads providing access to parcels of agricultural land, or providing access for harvesting purposes (including turf or seaweed) for two or more persons and non-public roads leading to important community amenities such as graveyards, beaches, piers, mountains, etc.

Under LIS, local authorities are responsible for identifying and prioritising roads for improvement works under the scheme, in consultation with residents/landowners. All works must be completed before the end of 2021.

Volunteers Wanted For Banna Beach Clean-Up Tonight

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Some of the rubbish collected at the June clean-up in Banna.

IF you’re looking for something to do tonight, then Banna Coastcare could do with a hand.

They are hosting their first evening Beach Clean Up this Thursday at 7pm sharp. There’ll be live music and Salty Souls Cafe will provide free Kids Hot Chocolates for all the little ones taking part on the Clean Up.

Back in June, a clean-up at the beach saw 50 volunteers show up and 40 bags of rubbish removed from the beach, dunes and car-park.

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People are asked to meet in the main car-park at 7pm and bring their own durable gloves and litter-picks if you have them.

Volunteers should not take part in the clean-up if they feel unwell or if they have been in contact with somebody who had COVID-19 in the past 2 weeks.

Social distancing will be maintained and the contact information of all volunteers attending the clean-up will be recorded. There will be hand sanitising before and after the clean-up.

Volunteers are asked to ensure gloves and clean-up kit is cleaned and sanitised appropriately, before and after the clean-up. Do not collect any discarded PPE & tissues/wipes.

Here’s The Line-Up Of Speakers For The Tralee TEDx Event

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Anthony Garvey and Caroline Reidy are just two of the local speakers at the upcoming TEDx Tralee event.

TEDxTralee takes place at Siamsa Tíre Theatre this October and the line-up is a diverse and exciting one.

The independently organised event, licensed by TED, will feature local and national voices and TED Talks videos under the theme of ‘New Beginnings’. Local speakers include author Anthony Garvey and Caroline Reidy of the HR Suite among others.

TEDx Tralee, taking place on October 15 from 9am to 9pm, will feature foyer activations, short films and main stage presentations from an eclectic group of Speakers from a variety of backgrounds and unique experiences all sharing their stories and big ideas.

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From an initial submission of forty six, the following eighteen speakers have been selected and have been, over the past number of weeks, been work shopping their scripts for presentation in October.

Speakers at TEDxTralee include:

• Alan Carrigan – Challenging your perception of Disability
• Anthony Garvey – How to Present……”Naked”
• Breanndan O Beaghlaoich – Protecting Our Unique Heritage of Language
• Caroline Reidy – The importance of Asking the Right Questions
• Chris Barrett – The Greatest Inspiration comes from Nature
• Christine Duff – You don’t need to live the diagnoses
• Ciara McCullough – One Decision Away from the Life we were Born to Live
• Colm O’Brien – Serve not Sell to “The Man on the Train”
• Donal O’Leary – Poet, Philosopher, Thinker with a unique view of Life
• Edel Lawlor – Remembering and Releasing the Child Within
• Grett O’Connor Buckley – The Lens is your Friend
• Jeff Colley – Treading lightly on the Earth with Sustainable Building
• Jennifer Maher – Finding Your Buzz
• Kate Moore – The Power of Creativity
• Ken Gibson – The Mission to finally eradicate a Biblical Disease
• Liam Moggan – “It Depends” There is more than One Right Answer
• Nadia Ramoutar – The Art of Living as an Art Form
• Stephen Treacy – Integrating and Inviting the Global Diaspora back Home

Speaking at the Ticket Sale Launch Curators Bryan Carr and James Finnegan thanked all those who applied for the event, and hoped that this will be the first in a legacy of TEDxTralee events.

“We are delighted, proud and honored to be able to give these wonderful, inspiring and thought provoking speakers and their talks a platform, not only to Tralee, but they also demonstrate and present the best of Kerry and Ireland to the worldwide TED audience.”

Tickets are currently available for €80 at www.siamsatire.com for TEDx Tralee’s 12 hours of  talks from the 18 speakers.

A limited introductory offer is currently available which includes with your Conference Ticket light breakfast, lunch and evening snack. For more information about TEDxTralee, please visit www.tedxtralee.ie or our Facebook page TEDxTralee.

Launched in 2009, TEDx is a program of locally organised events that bring the community together to share a TED-like experience. Some of the best talks from TEDx events have gone on to be featured on TED.com and garnered millions of views from audiences across the globe with 32 Million subscribers alone on the TEDx YouTube Channel.

845 New .ie Domains Registered In Kerry In First Half Of 2021

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THERE were 845 new .ie domains registered in Kerry in the first half of 2021, according to the latest .IE Domain Profile Report, which explores and analyses the .ie database. The figure represents an 18% increase on the same period in 2020.

The report, published biannually by .IE, the company that manages Ireland’s country domain name, shows that 6,831 new .ie domains were registered in Munster in the first half of the year, an 8.3% increase on the same period in 2020.

Overall, H1 2021 is the best first half-year period on record for new .ie domain registrations. A total of 33,815 new .ie domains were registered, up 1.6% on the same period last year.

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Broken down, new .ie domain registrations were up 34% on Q1 2020 but down 22% on Q2 2020.

For comparison, lockdown commenced only midway through the final month of Q1 2020, reaching its peak in Q2. Q1 2021 was dominated by the strict post-Christmas lockdown, but Q2 was largely defined by the re-opening of non-essential retail and hospitality and acceleration of the vaccine rollout.

At the end of H1 2021 (30 June), there was a total 324,074 .ie domains in the database, up 9.6% on the same period last year.

Tankers To Supply Water To Public Until Around 10pm Tonight

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TANKERS, at various locations around the Tralee area and beyond, will supply water until tonight at approximately 10pm, according to information from Cllr Mikey Sheehy, who has been in touch with Kerry County Council services.

The disruption to thousands of homes and businesses continues this evening. While the water mains was repaired earlier this morning, the Council is proceeding cautiously in turning on the supply in affected areas.

Earlier today, tankers were deployed to O’Donnells in Mounthawk, the Brandon Car Park (already in place), Our Lady and St Brendans Church and Manor Shopping Centre, where people could fill containers.

There were also tankers in the Clogher Churchyard Ballymacelligott, Firies Churchyard, Abbeydorney village, the Rock Road in Killarney, Cordal Graveyard and Barraduff Community Centre.

Small IBC tanks were being deployed to the following locations also;
• Tralee Sports Complex
• Near The Munster Bar, Ballymullen
• Cloghers pump station near LIDL
• Na Gaeil GAA CLUB
• Caheranne estate, Strand Rd
• The Spa GAA club
• The Tankard, Kilfenora

Kerry Pride Receives €1,000 From Tesco Community Fund

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At the presentation of €1,000 to Kerry Pride on. Wednesday were, from left; Gina O’Connor, Chloe O’Donoghue, Beth Quirke and Margaret O’Donoghue of Kerry Pride, Cllr Sam Locke, with Siobhan Lacey and Louise O’Connor of Tesco Manor West. Photo by Dermot Crean

KERRY Pride have thanked Tesco Ireland for including them in the Tesco Community Fund where members of the public put forward a local community group or cause to benefit from funding.

Through this fund, members of the Kerry community nominated Kerry Pride across four of Tesco’s Kerry stores and they received €1,000 at the Manor West store on Wednesday afternoon.

The funding they receive will go towards Kerry’s 4th Pride Parade which they had planned to bring back to the streets of Tralee in 2020.

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“On behalf of Kerry’s LGBTQI+ family, we sincerely thank those who put us forward for consideration. Unfortunately, Covid-19 arrived, and we put the parade on the back burner,” said a spokesperson from Kerry Pride.

“We took a conscious decision when the Delta variant surfaced to again, hold tough. In 2022 (Covid-19 and restrictions permitting), Kerry Pride will be back bigger and better.”

Rain And Thunderstorm Warning Issued But Kerry Looks Like Staying Mainly Dry

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A STATUS Yellow Rain and Thunderstorm warning has been issued for all of Ireland by Met Éireann, but it looks like Kerry will stay mostly dry.

The Met office says widespread showers and thunderstorms, with longer spells of rain at times will materialise with potential for localised flooding, especially in the northwest.

The warning is valid from 1pm today until 7am on Thursday morning. However, judging by the predicted rainfall radar on the Met Éireann website, Kerry will see just a few heavy showers today and tonight, with Thursday also looking mainly dry with temperatures in the mid-teens.

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Annual Ballymac Vintage Rally To Take Place Next Month

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The launch of the 11th annual KVVCCC Ballymac Vintage Run at O’Riada’s on Monday evening. Photo by Dermot Crean

AN array of vintage vehicles will take to the road once again from O’Riada’s Bar in Ballymac next month for a great cause.

The Kingdom Veteran Vintage & Classic Car Club’s 11th annual Ballymac Vintage Car and Honda 50 Run is being held this year in aid of four year old Rose O’Flaherty who lives with Type 1 Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA).

Currently there is no cure for SMA, but there are treatments available to manage symptoms and reduce discomfort.

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A group of family, friends and local community have set out to raise funds to help with her needs. For more information about the campaign checkout www.helprosebloom.ie.

The vehicles will assemble at O’Riada’s at 10am on Sunday, August 8 for coffees before heading off on the run. There will be charity bucket collection at various points. For more information, call George on 087-2814545 or Paul on 087-6989878.

Minister Turns Sod On €2m Development In South Kerry

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The Minister turning the sod this morning. Photo: Dept of Rural and Community Development Twitter

THE Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys T.D. today turned the first sod at the €2.03m gteic@Baile an Sceilg development, a digital hub being developed on the Uíbh Ráthach (Iveragh) Peninsula.

The Department of Rural and Community Development provided the capital funding in April of this year to develop the digital hub in south Kerry. It is hoped the development will revitalise the area and support the efforts of the Uíbh Ráthach Interagency Taskforce.

gteic@Baile an Sceilg will provide workspaces for up to 50 people as well as providing remote learning and upskilling programmes, support for small businesses to develop and expand and provide remoting working space for the surrounding region.

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This project is the latest in a chain of innovation hubs developed by Údarás na Gaeltachta under its gteic Digital Gaeltacht Network which is at the core of Údarás na Gaeltachta’s Strategy Plan 2021- 2025.

This facility will become a focal point and centre of excellence in the provision of the support services required by the business community of the Uíbh Ráthach Peninsula and the surrounding region.

As part of the project a Business Development Manager will be recruited for a 3-year period under the auspices of Údarás na Gaeltachta to support small businesses, particularly in their early start-up phase and will ensure the provision of enterprise and local development services.

Paudie Clifford Voted GAA.ie Footballer Of The Week

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KERRY forward Paudie Clifford has been voted the GAA.ie Footballer of the Week.

The Fossa club-man received 11,734 votes from the public ahead of Mayo’s Matthew Ruane (6,965) and Galway’s Shane Walsh (5,012).

Paudie Clifford had a superb game in the Munster SFC Final against Cork in Killarney on Sunday, scoring three points from play, setting up Sean O’Shea’s goal and was a central figure in Kerry’s attack.

Players of the Week are decided based on votes cast by followers of the Official GAA Instagram page.

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A Heritage Weekend At Churchill Forge Packed With Activities

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Members of Spa Fenit Community Council and friends launching the Heritage Weekend taking place on August 14/15. Photo by Dermot Crean

SPA Fenit Community Council are inviting people to celebrate Heritage weekend at the Forge in Churchill on Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th August.

This annual event has been very popular and the Committee have arranged another varied programme of events this year that should appeal to all ages.

On Saturday August 15th a Classic Car Run will depart the Forge in Churchill at 6.30pm travelling via Ardfert to Ballyheigue and returning again to the Forge. They welcome all Classic and road-legal rally cars and registration will take place at 5.30 pm.

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The Vintage Tractor run is scheduled for Sunday August 16th. Registration will take place at the car park in the GAA grounds in Churchill commencing at 11 am.

A variety of makes and models will leave the parking lot at 12.15pm travelling in convoy around the parish and will return to the Forge at 2pm.

All are aware of the difficulties encountered by charities due to Covid restrictions in recent times, so this year Fenit RNLI have arranged collection points along the route of the car and tractor runs and organisers ask the general public to contribute generously to this very worthy charity.

A new addition to this year’s programme will be a children’s tractor fun run which should generate much excitement.

Last year they had a panel of experts assessing and valuing antiques and they plan on including this in the programme again on this occasion. The annual Dog Show is a great attraction each year and there’s sure to be an array of impeccably groomed pets paraded by their proud owners.

A metal works display by the Blacksmith should be of particular interest for the younger generation as he demonstrates skills from times past. Ancient hand tools, morse code equipment and a range of crafts will be on display and a butter making demonstration is sure to generate much interest.

Organisers also invite the younger generation to participate in a model building competition and details will be distributed through the sports communities in the Parish.

To ensure that all attending can enjoy the day in a safe way a team of stewards will ensure that health and safety guidelines and protocols will be observed.

Water Tankers To Be Located In Four Locations In Tralee From Noon Today

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The Brandon Car Park.

FOUR water tankers are to be located in Tralee from 12 noon today.

The public can bring their water containers to O’Donnells in Mounthawk, the Brandon Car Park (already in place), Our Lady and St Brendans Church and Manor Shopping Centre.

There will also be tankers in the Clogher Churchyard Ballymacelligott, Firies Churchyard, Abbeydorney village, the Rock Road in Killarney, Cordal Graveyard and Barraduff Community Centre, all from 12 noon.

It is important to note that water from the tankers must be boiled before usage. Civil Defence volunteers will assist customers at all locations.

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Burst Water Main Repaired But Will Take Time To Restore Supply

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KERRY County Council has issued an update on the disruption to water supply to over 50,000 people yesterday and today.

The disruption was caused by a burst water main between the treatment plant at Lough Guitane and the Sheheree reservoir at about 5pm yesterday.

A statement on their social media pages this morning reads; “The mains break impacting the Central Regional Water Supply Scheme was repaired late last night and the water is slowly being turned on.

The filling of the pipes in the water network must be done in a slow and gradual manner to avoid further problems. This means it will take some time to have the water fully restored in the affected areas.

Water tankers are being deployed this morning across the affected areas. Locations will be posted shortly.”

More updates will be issued throughout the day. The areas affected are  Tralee, Fenit, Ballymacelligott, Firies, Farranfore, Castleisland, Castlemaine and surrounding areas.

Water Supply Problems To Continue On Wednesday After Another Mains Burst

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THERE are further problems with the water supply to the greater Tralee area and beyond this evening.

Kerry County Council has posted on their social media page that “a further water mains break is impacting the Central Regional Water Supply Scheme tonight and will cause disruption to supply throughout Wednesday while repairs are completed.

Impacted areas include Tralee, Killarney, Castleisland, Farranfore-Firies, Ballymacelligott and surrounding rural areas. Irish Water and Kerry County Council will provide further updates as the supply is restored. We appreciate your patience.”

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Cllr Mikey Sheehy received an update tonight from Kerry County Council water services that a decision has been made to immediately shut off water across the central regional scheme to ensure that the remaining water can assist with restoring supply to customers as soon as repairs to the main are effected. Crews are onsite presently commencing the repair.

The water supply lines to the hospitals in Tralee and Killarney will be kept operational and the Council are making direct contact to all nursing homes affected and offering assistance as required should they need storage tanks topped up.

They are arranging relevant public messaging to advise of the necessary water shut offs in the system which will affect a large number of people.

Curtailment Of Water Supplies In Tralee Until Later Tonight

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KERRY County Council are advising the public that due to a burst on a trunk main on the Central Regional Water Supply Scheme yesterday evening, there will be curtailment of water supplies in parts of Tralee Town and the greater Tralee area until later tonight.

The burst water main has caused water supply disruption to homes and businesses in the greater Castleisland area, Firies, Farranfore, Castlemaine, Ballymacelligott and parts of Tralee. Irish Water and Kerry County Council are currently working to resolve the issue.

Mairead Retires From Kerry Hospice Foundation After Many Years Of Service

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Mairead Fernane (centre) with Jack Shanahan and Mary Shanahan of Kerry Hospice Foundation. Photo by Dermot Crean

A STALWART of the Kerry Hospice Foundation, Mairead Fernane, has retired from duties after 15 years.

Mairead got involved in the Foundation in 2006 and was treasurer since 2015. She said the decision to step down was a difficult one and it was a huge privilege to work for such a worthy cause.

“It has been inspiring to know that the efforts of the volunteers has enable the qualified and caring staff in Suaimhneas, the Day Unit, the Instay Care Unit and hospitals throughout the county to offer genuine care to those who need it,” she said.

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“I know I will miss the work and friendships, but I will always look back with genuine pleasure and a sense of fulfilment on my time with the Hospice,” she said.

Mairead thanked all involved for their support over the years and especially the branch treasurers who were so co-operative and supportive to her over the past six years.

Chairman of the Kerry Hospice Foundation, Jack Shanahan, thanked Mairead for her years of service.

“Mairead has steadfastly represented the best interests of the Kerry Hospice Foundation. It was a huge duty of trust and responsibility, one she has looked after with great honesty, care and dedication,” he said.

“While it is a time tinged with sadness, the loss of a familiar face in a demanding role, it is also a time for gratitude. From all your friends and fellow volunteers, thank you Margaret,” he added.

Gardaí Continue Investigations Into Circumstances Surrounding Woman’s Death In Lixnaw

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GARDAI are continuing to investigate all the circumstances surrounding the discovery of a body of a woman at a house in Lixnaw, yesterday morning.

A post mortem has been carried out. Details of the post mortem results are not being released for operational reasons.

Investigating Gardaí maintain an open mind in this investigation and An Garda Síochána is not providing any further information at this time.

Gardaí in Listowel are appealing to any person with any information in relation to this investigation to contact them at Listowel Garda Station on 068 50820, the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.

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Tralee Golf Club News

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Results of Captain John Prize and fixtures

1 Mark D Osullivan (11) 42 pts

2 Harry Dawson (19) 42 pts

3 David J Sheehy (8) 41 pts

4 Seamus Macgearil (21) 39 pts

5 Anthony Byrne (17) 39 pts

6 David Leen (6) 39 pts

7 Sean O Loughlin (13) 39 pts

Best Gross Darren O Sullivan (+4) 32 pts

Div. 1 David Hennebery (5) 38 pts

Div. 2 Ronan Shanahan (11) 38 pts

Div 3 Michael P O’Connell (16) 38 pts

Div 4 John G Fitzgerald (23) 35 pts

Best Sat. score Kevin O O’Connor (14) 38 pts

Best Sun. score Arthur J Spring (10) 38 pts

front nine Martin Mitchell (16) 23 pts

Back nine Robert Prenderville (19) 22 pts

Past Captain Philip O Sullivan 35 pts

Senior Prize Liam Hussey 37 pts

Student Prize Mark Stephenson 37 pts

Nine hole Comp. John Sexton 17 pts

Guest Prize Andrew White

Fixtures,

President Richards Prize, Saturday the 31st and Sunday the 1st August(white tees and stable ford)
Sunday Evening the 31st August, 9 hole competition Green Tees.(members may only play in one competition)

Monday the 2nd August MCelligotts Garage sponsored semi open AM AM.