LIVESTOCK farmers (beef, dairy, sheep, poultry and goat) from Kerry and surrounding areas are invited to attend a workshop hosted by FRED, the Food Resource Efficiency Decision Support Hub at MTU North Campus in Tralee on Tuesday, May 7 between 2pm and 4pm.
The purpose of the workshop is to greater understand the needs of those working within the food system, and will focus on routes to market, business sustainability, increasing profits and decreasing waste.
The workshop will also provide an opportunity for livestock farmers to network and develop ways to work with each other to strengthen their business and benefit the local economy.
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The workshop is being delivered as part of the second phase of the FRED project, is working to better understand the challenges and opportunities for food loss and waste prevention in different sectors of the Irish food system.
The event will be followed by refreshments, including finger food from local meat and dairy producers.
A TRALEE Municipal District Councillor has asked the Council to investigate issues at an estate in Ardfert.
Sinn Fein Cllr. Deirdre Ferris asked that this council inspect the houses in Lathair na hArd Eaglaise in Ardfert for defects reported by tenants to determine what remedial work is required.
Cllr Ferris said this is a relatively new estate and there have been issues since residents moved in. She said some houses have had problems with the sealant at the rear of the build, leading to flooding in the kitchens and tiles falling off.
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Cllr Ferris said there were other issues with connection to waste pipes. She said something had to be done and short-term repair jobs were not the solution.
In reply Kerry County Council management said they are aware of a number of maintenance requests in this estate, and these have been logged and will be actioned accordingly further to inspection.
AFTER three consecutive months where numbers of patients waiting on trolleys at University Hospital Kerry were decreasing on same period the previous year, there was a sharp increase in April.
There were 325 patients waiting on trolleys at UHK last month, the most in April since records began and an increase of 143 on April 2023 (+78%).
Nationally, over 11,070 patients, including 258 children, were admitted to hospital without a bed in April, according to the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation.
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INMO General Secretary Phil Ní Sheaghdha said: “The fact that we are seeing this level of overcrowding in April is clear that the HSE have not learned any lessons when it comes to reducing the number of patients on trolleys.
“The number of patients admitted without a bed only went below 400 on any given day on one occasion, and over 600 patients were on trolleys on five occasions over the course of the month. By any standard this is unacceptable but to see this type of overcrowding during a month when it is traditionally quieter is a clear indicator that the HSE’s current plans are not working.
“Our members are reporting that the challenges associated with overcrowding are being worsened by the HSE’s recruitment moratorium which is making it impossible to staff any ward safely or to expand nursing services into the community to develop the much needed services as set out in Sláintecare.”
.Sam Bayley, Conservation Ranger, Director Cuckoo Tracking Project holding ‘Cuach Cores’ ready for satellite tracking at Derrycunnihy, Killarney National Park. Photo: Valerie O’Sullivan
THE National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has confirmed that Cuach KP, one of the first Irish Cuckoos to be tagged as part of a Cuckoo Tracking Project, has landed home in Killarney National Park after a winter spent in the rainforests of the Congo Basin in Central Africa.
Cuach KP, along with two other Irish Cuckoos, was tagged in Killarney National Park in May 2023.
He is the first to successfully make the 9,000km journey home for the summer months. On arrival into Ireland on Monday, KP made a short stop in Fermoy before making his way back to Derrycunihy, in Killarney National Park, the place where he was originally tagged before his release.
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While the Cuckoo has been well-studied during the breeding season, very little is known about the routes they take once they head off on migration or where in Africa they spend the winter months.
Sam Bayley, left, Conservation Ranger, Director Cuckoo Tracking Project with Stuart Brown, BTO Volunteer, centre, and Lee Barber Demographic Surveys Organier BTO, with two cuckoos ready for satellite tracking at Derrycunnihy, Killarney National Park. Photo: Valerie O’Sullivan
The Cuckoo Tracking Project was set up by the NPWS together with the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) last year to better understand their migration patterns and the habitat pressures on the Cuckoo population. The birds were given names and fitted with satellite tags so that their movements could be tracked.
Over the course of Cuach KP ‘s extraordinary 9000km journey to and from the Kingdom, he covered two continents and several countries.
Eamonn Meskell, Divisional Manager at Killarney National Park said: “We’re delighted that Cuach KP has found his way home to Killarney during the first year of this monitoring project. Cuckoos are such an intriguing bird and one that we associate with the arrival of summer. All of us at Killarney National Park are now hoping that the two other birds tagged as part of this project will follow and join him here over the coming days.”
Sam Bayley, Conservation Ranger NPWS, Director Irish Cuckoo Tracking project, holding one of the satellite tracked Cuckoos, at Burren National Park, Co. Clare. Photo: Valerie O’Sullivan
Reports from the satellite tagging system indicate that that other Cuckoos from the project are also on their way.
Cuach Torc is currently in the vicinity of Brittany. Cuach Cores was the last of the three to leave. The latest reports suggest that Cores left Algeria yesterday and is already making quick progress.
Cuckoos, or Cuach as gaelige, are a summer migrant to Ireland. Adult birds are resident here from April to early July, having spent the winter on the African continent.
They are a unique bird in Ireland as they lay their eggs in other birds’ nests and have no involvement in raising their young.
Across Ireland, the Cuckoo has seen a 27% reduction in breeding distribution between the first national census, Bird Atlas (1968-1972), and the most recent Bird Atlas (2007-2011).
TWO students from Listowel won the the Best Project Award at SciFest 2024 at the MTU Kerry Campus on Wednesday.
Emma Heaphy and Abbie Mazzelle from Presentation Secondary Listowel won the award for their project “Would People Live on an Island if Given the Necessities” and will go on to represent Scifest@MTU Kerry Campus at The SciFest National Final in November.
Their investigation aims to tackle the housing crisis in Ireland. Their solution is to use the islands around Ireland and propose that people live on the islands to make more space on the mainland.
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“We have sent out a survey with ranging questions helping us find our answer; would people live on an island if given the necessities? We have analysed this data. To inform questions for our survey we carried out statistical analysis on the censuses over the past 15 years”, said Emma.
“We have also looked at the environmental side of this and have produced a fully functioning sustainable island”, added Abbie.
In other awards from the event, Ethan Ward from CBS Secondary School, Tralee, was SciFest Best Project Award Runner Up. Boston Scientific Medical Devices Award went to CBS Secondary School, Tralee’s Jaidon Ward Barrett, Tomasz Bober, Rian Curtin. Presentation Secondary School Tralee students Ciara and Saoirse Murphy, were winners of theCommunications Award.
Ciara and Saoirse Murphy, from Presentation Tralee winners of the Communications Award.
Eirgrid Cleaner Climate Award went to Senan O’Brien and Rebecca O’Sullivan of Pobalscoil Inbhear Scéine, Kenmare.
Speaking at the opening of the event, Professor Maggie Cusack, President of MTU, acknowledged the huge amount of effort by all involved evident from the quality of projects submitted and thanked the teachers for their mentorship.
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“We look forward to seeing some of you here today live out your STEM dream and study with us at MTU. Our state-of-the-art STEM building at the Kerry Campus is well underway and will be complete in 2025. This new building will provide all the facilities to enable the students of today to become to the engineers and scientists of tomorrow”.
SciFest, founded in 2006 is a celebration of science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM) education. Spanning all of Ireland it has grown in the 19 years to become Ireland’s largest second-level STEM fair programme.
Winners from each regional STEM fair go on to compete at a national final in November. Winners from the national final compete at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in America and attend the Long Night of Science in Berlin. The SciFest programme is funded primarily by Intel Ireland, Boston Scientific and EirGrid.
THERE was a drop in new car sales in Kerry last month compared to April 2023, according to the latest statistics from the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI).
There were 144 new car registrations in the county in April compared to 159 in the same month in 2023, a decrease of 9.4%.
Nationally, there were 8,591 new car sales last month, while in April 2023 there were 8,912, a decrease of 3.6%. Despite the drop last month, sales of new cars in the first four months of this year are up 7.29% in Kerry.
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Volkswagen was most popular make of car in Kerry in April with 22 units sold each, with the rest of the Top 5 made up of Kia (19), Toyota (17) Skoda (15) and Hyundai (15).
The Skoda Octavia was the most popular model with 10 units sold, with the Kia Sportage (7), Toyota Rav 4 (15), Hyundai Kona (7) and Hyundai Tucson (6) made up the top five.
Petrol was the most popular engine type with 49 units sold (same as in April 2023) while 46 diesel engine cars were sold (up 39.3%).
Next is 25 petrol/electric hybrid vehicles sold, down +19% on April 2023; 12 Electric vehicles (-60%), 10 Petrol/Plug-In Electric Hybrid (-37%) and two Diesel Electric (Hybrid) (-77%).
.Anluan Dunne meeting with Minister Malcolm Noonan at Leinster House where they discussed the An Post site and how it can be used by the Courts Service.
TRALEE Green Party Candidate, Anluan Dunne, has raised the matter of Tralee Courthouse in meetings with Minister for Heritage, Malcolm Noonan TD and Minister with responsibility for Communications, Eamon Ryan TD.
An Post was granted planning permission for a new delivery service unit in Monavalley Industrial Estate. This would indicate they will be relocating their Tralee sorting and distribution hub from the current location on Edward Street (at the rear of Tralee Courthouse) to Monavalley.
“We knew as far back as September 2022 that the An Post site would become available at some stage,” said Anluan Dunne.
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“The availability of the property enables the extension and modernisation of our historic courthouse to provide a much improved, state-of-the-art building which the people of Kerry deserve.”
Mr. Dunne has now raised the issue with Minister Eamon Ryan. “I spoke with Eamon and provided a full overview of the saga to date. He expressed concern for the historic fabric of the town centre and the cost of constructing the proposed new court at the Island of Geese.”
Meeting with Minister Malcolm Noonan at Leinster House on April 30, Mr. Dunne again raised the issue.
“When I met with Minister Noonan we spoke about the An Post site becoming available. He could see no reason why consideration couldn’t be given to the use of this property for the Courts Service. Malcolm has visited the courthouse on Ashe St., he understands the importance of the building to the people of Tralee and he wants to see it remain in use as a court.”
On September 19, 2022, 28 of 33 elected councillors in Kerry voted to sell approximately one quarter of the Island of Geese to the Courts Service with the intention of constructing a completely new courthouse.
Concluding, Mr. Dunne said: “I’ve now sought an answer from An Post as to the expected availability of the property on Edward St. In the meantime, I want to see the OPW undertake a preliminary survey of the site with a view to extending and modernising one of the most important buildings in our town.”
THE most up to date statistics from the Residential Property Price Register shows that there were 24 property sales in the Tralee area in March with transactions fetching a total of €4,286,000.
The property that sold for the most money in one transaction in the Tralee environs in March was for a house in Clogherbrien for €345,000.
The properties which fetched the highest price in the county in March was for houses in Faha Killarney and Laharn, Killorglin, both for €525,000.
In all, the latest figures show there were 104 residential properties sold in Kerry in March. Here’s where and for how much the properties in the Tralee area were sold (highest price first)…
.Tralee Chamber Alliance has collaborated with Tralee Tidy Towns on local projects.
TRALEE Chamber Alliance has been named as a finalist in two categories of the Chambers Ireland Awards.
They are nominated in the Sustainability & Biodiversity and Community Support Initiatives categories.
Members and strategic partners of Tralee Chamber Alliance have collaborated with Tralee Tidy Towns to deliver meaningful biodiversity and climate action with projects including tree planting, planned cleanups, litter picks, marram grass planting, maintenance, and painting of buildings, to name just a few.
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The Chamber was nominated in the Community Support Initiatives category for the production and delivery of the Tralee Heritage Trail.
CEO Colette O’Connor paid tribute to the volunteers who contributed to these projects and highlighted the close relationship between the Chamber and Tidy Towns that makes it possible to deliver such initiatives.
“The business community in Tralee are always willing to step up to support the town and are never found wanting when it comes to getting out and putting their shoulders to the wheel,” said Colette.
The annual wwards organised by Chambers Ireland will take place on Thursday, June 6 2024 in the Killashee Hotel, Co. Kildare.
.MTU students, Sophie Griffin and Jayden Kelleher accepting the Smarter Travel Student award on behalf of their winning team.
A GROUP of BA in Event Management students from Munster Technological University (MTU) Kerry has won a national award at the Smarter Travel Student Awards held in Dublin last Thursday.
Their innovative project, ‘Game On: Battle of the Colleges’ won first prize in the Social Marketing: Programmes and Advocacy category.
The winning team, Brenda Giblin, Kelly O’Flaherty, Jayden Kelleher and Sophie Griffin developed a project that encourages students to walk to campus, promoting both sustainability and a healthier lifestyle.
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The judges were impressed by the project’s creativity, clear messaging and well-executed marketing strategy.
Additionally, Bachelor of Business (Marketing) student at MTU Kerry, Solenn Cormery was awarded second prize in the video category for her cycling project, ‘Hello Pedlo’.
This initiative encourages cycling as an eco-friendly travel model to and from campus. A special recognition award was presented to the students’ lecturer, Sheila O’Mahony, for supporting and guiding students with their projects.
Commenting on the awards, Mary Rose Stafford, Head of School of Business, Computing and Humanities said, “MTU’s win at these awards is a testament to the hard work and innovation of our students and staff. We are proud of their achievements and look forward to more initiatives that contribute to a greener campus”.
Sheila O’Mahony, Marketing lecturer added; “I’m very proud of our students for their success at the Smarter Travel Student Awards. It’s wonderful to see their efforts and creativity being recognised at a national level and it’s inspiring to see our students taking the initiative to promote sustainability and healthier travel habits”.
The Smarter Travel Student Awards are a third-level programme organised by the National Transport Authority that invites students to develop projects that promote sustainable and active travel modes to, from, and on campus.
The competition entries were judged by an external panel of expert judges, with the award ceremony taking place at the Lighthouse Cinema in Dublin on Thursday, 25th April.
A TRALEE Municipal District Councillor has asked the Council to identify safe walking and running routes around the greater Tralee area.
In a motion at the meeting of the Tralee Municipal District of Kerry County Council on Monday, Fianna Fáil Cllr. Mikey Sheehy asked that the MD identify and establish five key walking and running routes around the Tralee, Fenit and Ardfert areas.
He asked that they ensure these routes are adequately illuminated, have CCTV, Garda monitoring, dog warden and litter prioritisation to support locals and tourists, especially women, who should feel safe and secure when exercising and exploring the area.
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Cllr Sheehy also said these routes should be reviewed in terms of providing small, sheltered seating along these routes for elderly to rest and for people to avoid the elements.
In reply, the Council indicated it will, in conjunction with key stakeholders, develop a County Outdoor Recreation Plan in the coming months.
The plan will take into account the current outdoor recreation amenities in the county and outline where outdoor recreation infrastructure and services should be located.
Council management outlined that Tralee MD has a number of designated quality amenity cycle/walkways located throughout the district.
These include the Tralee to Fenit Greenway, Tralee Bay Amenity Walkway, River Lee Amenity Walkway, Tralee Town Park & Tralee Bay Wetlands. Added to this there are a host of popular unclassified walking routes used by locals within their communities.
The litter/dog wardens carry out a number of joint patrols in known dog fouling/dog walking areas where they meet with dog owners, ask how they dispose of their dog waste and check if they have bags.
The most recent fortnightly club lotto draw took place on Monday, April 29th at the club grounds. There was no jackpot or match 3 winner on this occasion. The numbers drawn were 7, 8, 9 and the bonus ball was 15.
Lucky Dip Winners were as follows:
€50 Tina Carey, Milltown
€50 Ian Twiss, Milltown
€25 Eileen and Sophie Twiss, Milltown
€25 Donal Hickey
€25 David Bevan, Milltown
€25 Jacinta Bourke, Abbeydorney
Our next club lotto draw is scheduled to take place on Monday, May 13th at 19:30pm in the Clubhouse where the jackpot will be €13,000. Get your draw tickets or renew your yearly tickets online on Clubforce or get your tickets for the next draw from all the usual local outlets. Mile búiochas do gach duine for playing Milltown/Castlemaine Clubs Fortnightly Fundraiser, the money raised is vital to the day to day running of our club and your support is sincerely appreciated.
GAA Football Review Committee: Survey
A survey is being shared with the wider GAA membership relating to the work of the Football Review Committee.
The committee, led by Jim Gavin, is evaluating the current rules and regulations of Gaelic football.
Milltown/Castlemaine GAA Club Members are encouraged to participate in the survey before it closes on June 30, 2024.
Survey Links are as follows:
English Version – https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=hrxFrNSvpUKfwz6H4bd_zhzfYsn8PmBBnoNH1dx2MrRUQ1VUSjhLT1I4SlpPWEg1VUc5OVA1RVEzNC4u
Nasc don suirbhé as Gaeilge / Irish Version – https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=hrxFrNSvpUKfwz6H4bd_zhzfYsn8PmBBnoNH1dx2MrRUOFhMTlg0WVdNOVgxV05TMVUwRTJMTkIySS4u
Electric Ireland Munster Minor Football Championship: Quarter-Final Result – Michael Lynch and David Heasman Represent Milltown/Castlemaine GAA
Congratulations and well done to Milltown/Castlemaine’s Michael Lynch who lined out at full back tonight, Tuesday April 30th in Austin Stack Park, Tralee against Cork in the Electric Ireland Munster Minor Football Championship Quarter-Final.
Clubman David Heasman was also a selector. Kerry emerged victorious on a final score of 0-12 to 1-07 to advance to the Semi-Final next week. Fixture details to be confirmed. Follow our club social media channels for more information in the days ahead.
Kerry Petroleum Senior Club Football Championship: Group Stage Draw
The draw has been made for the 2024 Kerry Petroleum Senior Club Football Championship.
We have been paired with Dingle, Na Gaeil and Dr Crokes.
Our first fixture will be against Na Gaeil. Dates, times and venues to be confirmed in due course.
Credit Union County Senior Football League: Division 1, Round 5 Result and Round 6 Fixture
Milltown/Castlemaine’s Senior ‘A’ side welcomed Killarney Legion to the Paddy Burke Memorial Park, Milltown on Saturday evening for Round 5 of the Credit Union County Senior Football League in Division 1. In perfect conditions for football, an open yet tight game ensued. The sides couldn’t be separated at half-time with the scores level at 0-5 to 0-5. The away side went three points ahead on two separate occasions in the second half at 0-11 to 0-08 and again at 0-12 to 0-09 and despite two injury time pointed efforts from Eanna O’Connor, time ran out and it was the visitors who came away with a one point victory on a final score of 0-12 to 0-11.
Round 6 will take place on Saturday, May 4th th when Milltown/Castlemaine travel to take on Kilcummin at 7:00pm in Kilcummin. All support is welcome.
Credit Union County Senior Football League: Division 6B, Round 5 Result and Round 6 Fixture
Milltown/Castlemaine’s Senior ‘B’ side were away to John Mitchels ‘B’ on Sunday afternoon in Ballyseedy, Tralee. After a close encounter which ebbed and flowed throughout, nothing could separate the sides and the final score was 1-9 to 1-9. The lads have 2 wins, 2 draws and 1 defeat so far in the competition.
Round 6 will take place on Bank Holiday Monday, May 6th when Milltown/Castlemaine play host to Spa ‘B’ at 7:00pm in the Paddy Burke Memorial Park, Milltown. All support is welcome for the players and management.
Kellihers Toyota Central Region Division 3, Round 3 Result and Round 4 Fixture: Minors (U17s)
Milltown/Castlemaine’s Minor side (U17s) travelled to take on Ardfert away last night, Monday, April 29th in Round 3 of the Central Region and fell to a six point defeat with Ardfert running out 4-08 to 1-11 winners.
Round 4 will take place on Monday, May 6th when Milltown/Castlemaine are away to Annascaul/Lispole at 7:00pm. All support is welcome.
Munster Senior Football Championship: Final Fixture – Cillian Burke Represents Milltown/Castlemaine GAA
Best wishes to the Kerry Seniors Squad and Management especially Milltown/Castlemaine’s Cillian Burke who will be in action for the Kerry against Clare in the Munster Senior Football Championship Final next Sunday, May 5th at 1:45pm in Cusack Park, Ennis. Tickets are available online at the following link: https://am.ticketmaster.com/gaa/munstersfc. They are also available to purchase in Supervalu and Centra shops across the county.
EirGrid GAA Football U20 Munster Championship: Final Fixture
Kerry will meet Cork on Wednesday, May 1st (tomorrow) at 7:30pm in Austin Stack Park, Tralee in the EirGrid Munster U20 Football Final.
Tickets are available to purchase online for tomorrow’s game at the following link: https://www.universe.com/users/munster-gaa-TR8ZGN.
For those unable to attend, the match will be shown on TG4.\
U7 Boys:
Milltown/Castlemaine’s U7 Boys are training at the Paddy Burke Memorial Park, Milltown on a weekly basis. Training takes place at the moment on Saturday evening’s at 5:00pm. For more information please contact Colin McKenna on 087-0687653.
GAA 4 All:
Milltown/Castlemaine’s GAA 4 All training takes place weekly on Wednesday’s at 5:45pm at the Paddy Burke Memorial Park, Milltown. For more information please contact Danny McClure on 087-6536631.
MC Minis:
Training commenced on Saturday 6th April in the Nagle Rice Community Centre at 9:30am and will continue weekly at the same time. This age group would be for boys born in 2019 and 2020 (Parent/Guardian required to be in attendance to assist) and for girls born in 2018, 2019 or 2020 (Parent/Guardian required to be in attendance to assist). For more information please contact Caitlyn Corkery on 087-2471416.
U8 Girls:
Training is on Saturday mornings at 9:15am at the Paddy Burke Memorial Park, Milltown. This age group is for girls born in 2016 and 2017. For more information please contact Derry O’Sullivan on 087-7550401.
U9 Boys:
Training is on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at 6:15pm at the Paddy Burke Memorial Park, Milltown. This age group is for boys born in 2015 and 2016. For more information please contact Garry Murphy on 087-9432746.
U10 Girls:
Training is on Monday evening’s at 6:00pm at the Paddy Burke Memorial Park, Milltown. This age group is for girls born in 2014 and 2015. For more information please contact Tommy Cronin on 087-1227099.
Well done to our under 10 girls who played a challenge game against each other on Sunday morning in beautiful sunshine, with some great skills and team work on display.. well done to the coaches and families for their continued support .. 🇳🇬🇳🇬
U12 Girls:
Another superb performance by our Under 12 girls at home to Firies last Tuesday in the third round of Go Games. Continuing to develop and go from strength to strength weekly.. Thank you to Firies for a sporting contest.
Thank you also to the coaches, families & supporters!! 🇳🇬🇳🇬
U13 Boys:
Training is on weekly for both the Green and White teams. For more information or if you are new to the area and would like to join please contact Haulie Clifford on 087-6932126.
U13 Boys: County League Phase 1 Concludes – County Champions in Division 1
Huge congratulations to the Milltown/Castlemaine U13 Green team and management who were crowned County Football League Division 1 Champions in Phase 1 on Sunday evening following a 5-12 to 1-10 victory over Na Gaeil. They also beat John Mitchels 5-12 to 1-08 on Friday evening to round off a good couple of days.
Our White team also concluded their campaign by making it four wins from five group games after a 4-17 to 1-07 victory against Na Gaeil on Sunday evening.
Phase 2 will begin for both teams on Sunday, May 12th but no fixtures have been released yet.
U14 Girls: Update
Huge congratulations to our Under 14 girls who secured a lovely win on the road to St Pats in Blennerville on Sunday evening on a score line of 3-6 to 1-7 in the second round of county league.. Well done to the team, coaches and for the families for continued support of our girls, and to St Pats for a sporting contest. 🇳🇬
U15 Boys: Lee Strand County Football League – Division 3B, Round 5 Result and Division 3B and 9A Round 5 Fixtures
Milltown/Castlemaine’s U15 ‘A’ team and management had a good win on Wednesday, April 24th on a scoreline of 2-15 to 0-14 against Cordal at the Paddy Burke Memorial Park, Milltown. They have now qualified for the County League Semi-Final but fixture details have yet to be confirmed for next week. The semi-final will take place at home on Wednesday, May 8th at the Paddy Burke Memorial Park, Milltown. Time also to be confirmed.
Milltown/Castlemaine ‘B’ will take on John Mitchels ‘B’ on Friday evening, May 3rd at the Paddy Burke Memorial Park, Milltown in Division 9A at 6:00pm.
Well done to both teams and management and keep up the great work.
Credit Union County Senior Football League: Division 1
Round 1 – Glenflesk (Home on Saturday, March 23rd at 2:00pm) – Lost 1-17 to 1-08
Round 2 – Ballymacelligott (Neutral on Saturday, March 30th at 5:00pm in Caherslee, Tralee) – Drew 1-8 to 1-8
Round 3 – Laune Rangers (Home on Sunday, April 7th at 2:00pm in the Paddy Burke Memorial Park, Milltown) – Lost 0-7 to 0-4
Round 4 – Kerins O’Rahillys (Away on Sunday, April 21st at 3:00pm in Healy Park, Ballyrickard) – Won 4-06 to 1-12
Round 5 – Killarney Legion (Home on Saturday, April 27th at 6:30pm in the Paddy Burke Memorial Park, Milltown) – Lost 0-12 to 0-11
Round 6 – Kilcummin (Away on Saturday, May 4th at 7:00pm in Kilcummin)
Round 7 – Rathmore (Away)
Round 8 – Spa Killarney (Home)
Round 9 – Dingle (Away)
Round 10 – Dr. Crokes (Home)
Round 11 – An Ghaeltacht (Away)
Credit Union County Senior Football League: Division 6B
Round 1 – Dr. Crokes ‘C’ (Home on Sunday, April 14th at 2:00pm – Rescheduled Fixture This Weekend) – Won 2-09 to 1-10
Round 2 – Beaufort ‘B’ (Away on Sunday, March 31st at 2:00pm, Finished a draw) – Drew 1-08 to 0-11
Round 3 – Kenmare Shamrocks ‘B’ (Home on Saturday, April 6th at 6:30pm, Won the match) – Won 2-6 to 1-5
Round 4 – St. Michaels/Foilmore ‘B’ (Away on Sunday, April 21st at 1:00pm in Foilmore) – Lost 2-10 to 0-10
Round 5 – John Mitchels ‘B’ (Away on Sunday, April 28th at 4:00pm in Ballyseedy, Tralee) – Drew 1-9 to 1-9
Round 6 – Spa Killarney ‘B’ (Home on Bank Holiday Monday, May 6th at 7:00pm in the Paddy Burke Memorial Park, Milltown)
Round 7 – Ballymacelligott ‘B’ (Away)
County Senior Football Development League:
Group 1:
Austin Stacks ‘C’
Beaufort ‘C’
Fossa ‘C’
Laune Rangers ‘C’
Milltown/Castlemaine ‘C’
Rathmore ‘C’
All Welcome To Join In:
Milltown/Castlemaine GAA are continuously looking for help within our club and at this time of year we would like to invite more coaches to come on board for the 2024 season. Parents’ involvement in their child’s sport increases the likelihood that they play sport and enjoy involvement for life. Don’t just drop and go, be a part of their journey. You may be able to help coach, hand out bibs or organise a social outing for the team. You may be able to keep track of any information that the coach needs. If you are interested in any voluntary role within the club just send us a message on our social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram or Twitter/X) or text Coaching Officer Ian Twiss on 0872521053.
Milltown Bowling Club:
New Year, New hobby.
Want to try something new and fun then come along to Milltown Nagle Rice community centre and have a go at short mat bowls.
All you need is just a pair of comfortable shoes for two hours of gently rolling bowls along a 1.8 meter wide x 12 meter long mat.
A timber block is placed midway along the mat and the aim of the game is to roll a bowl along the mat, avoiding the block and touching a yellow ball called the “Jack” at the opposite end.
A wooden fender is placed at both ends to keep the bowls from rolling off the mat end.
Nearest bowl to the Jack after 9 ends scores, the more of your bowls closer than your opponent the more you score.
All training and guidance will be provided along with the use of club bowls to get you started.
Once you get going then we have league and cup competitions, friendly individual and group matches along with the opportunity to play other clubs within Kerry.
Sounds simple!!!
Well the only way to find out is to come along and have a go.
First night is free and it’s only a fiver then per night for two hours of fun and learning to play one of the fastest growing indoor sports for all age groups in Ireland.
Milltown bowls club looks forward to seeing you on Tuesday and Friday nights at 8pm.
Milltown Tidy Towns: Volunteers Needed
Join Milltown Tidy Towns – We need your help. Meeting every Thursday at 6.30pm at The Old Milltown Community Hall. This is an opportunity for local businesses, families and anyone with an interest in creating “a sense of place” in Milltown. All welcome, no experience required. Please call Therese on 089-4767279 for further information or log onto Milltown Tidy Towns Facebook page.
Our clothing recycling collection is still happening so we urge you to clean out your wardrobes of all unwanted clothes, sheets, blankets, towels, curtains, shoes etc and drop them to the Paddy Burke Memorial Park in Milltown.
This is a wonderful way of doing your bit for the environment and raising much needed funds for our club at the same time.
Club Merchandise:
Milltown/Castlemaine GAA club gear and merchandise is now available to buy online from the Club Shop.
The Club Shop contains details of the large amount of branded Milltown-Castlemaine & Kerry stock we have available within the club, for immediate delivery, please use the link to check stock levels and sizes.
https://milltowncastlestore.sumupstore.com/
Items for the Club Notes
If you have any items for inclusion in the weekly notes, then please contact the club’s PRO Dara O’Connor on 086 268 8674 before 20:00 on Sundays.
Team Updates
For anyone New to the Area, who would like to get involved with the club, please contact Ian Twiss on 087 252 1053.
Team Enquiries
If you want to join your local club, one of the fastest growing clubs in the county, please contact Ian Twiss on 087 252 1053.
General Enquiries
For any other queries, please send an email to our Secretary or Chairperson at the following addresses:
secretary.milltowncastlemaine.kerry@gaa.ie
or
chairperson.milltowncastlemaine.kerry@gaa.ie
For emergencies, please call 087 409 3530 (Club Mobile Phone).
.Pictured at the presentation were Artur Nowak, Victor Blennerhassett, Marion Foley, Marian Collins, Derek Blennerhassett, Noel Hilliard, John Lenihan, Den McCarthy.
TRALEE Triathlon Club presented a cheque for €2,000 to Glanageenty Walkways at the Tralee Harriers track on Saturday last.
Tralee Triathlon Club, as a result of the very successful 24 hour running event, held over the Easter weekend, were in a position to split the monies raised between Glanageenty Walkways and Ballyheigue Inshore Rescue Services.
Members of the club completed an amazing 1,403.97km during the fundraiser on March 31.
.A plaque will be unveiled a the site of the old St Joseph’s Industrial School opposite the entrance to Scoil Eoin Balloonagh on the Caherslee Road.
THE Mayor of Tralee and the elected members of Tralee Municipal District will be unveil a plaque to mark the location of St. Joseph’s Industrial School, Tralee at a ceremony this weekend.
The plaque will be unveiled by Mayor Terry O’Brien on Saturday, May 4 at 10.30am on the boundary wall of Holy Family School on the Caherslee Road (opposite the entrance to Balloonagh Primary School).
The memorial plaque follows agreement between the elected members of Tralee MD that the site of the Industrial School be acknowledged and identified in this way.
KERRY County Council has published detailed information on its website in relation to the forthcoming elections to Kerry County Council. Elections for the six Local Electoral Areas in Kerry will be held on Friday, June 7.
Information about key dates, the Register of Electors, the nomination process for candidates and other relevant information is provided to ensure that voters and election candidates are fully informed about all aspects of the election process.
Eligible electors who are not registered to vote must do so before Monday, May 20. Those wishing to be included on the Postal Voters List or the Special Voters List must register by Saturday, 11 May.
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The Council operates a Freephone Number for any queries about the Register of Electors which can be contacted on 1800 245 380 during office hours.
The period during which candidates can submit their nomination papers is Saturday, 11 May and Saturday, 18 May. Arrangements for the receipt of nominations will be made with individual candidates and the political parties by the Kerry County Council Returning Officer, Martin O’Donoghue.
The Council webpages on the local elections also includes important information for candidates about legislation dealing with election expenditure, data protection, and election posters. For example, election posters cannot be erected before 8 May and must be removed within seven days of polling.
This site will continue to be updated with further information about the local elections in the coming weeks, including a full list of candidates in each of the six Local Electoral Areas following the close of nominations.
Members of the public can also keep up to date via the Kerry County Council social media channels on X, Instagram and Facebook.
.Launching this year’s Tralee Food Festival which takes place from May 19-21, were Festival Directors Ken Murphy and Oliver Hurley with organising committee members Ken Tobin and John McCarthy at the Island of Geese. Photo by Dermot Crean
AFTER the resounding success of the 2023 Tralee Food Festival, this year’s exciting event will take place from Friday to Sunday, May 17-19.
The organising committee comprising Ken Tobin, John Mc Carthy and Mary Mc Quinn along with festival directors Oliver Hurley and Ken Murphy is gearing up for an action-packed weekend.
The committee’s second year at the helm, the group hopes to build on the success of last year’s achievements and elevate the festival for both locals and visitors to the town of Tralee.
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The 2023 festival highlighted the Island of Geese, Domnick Street and the Square areas of the town with exciting additions of the Abbey Car Park and Garvey’s Indoor Market being added this year.
The newly named area ‘Sound Bite’, located in the Abbey Car Park will focus on food trucks and live music showcasing a variety of local music and entertainment until 10pm on the Friday and Saturday night.
Local artists and bands such as Noel McAuliffe & Shane Murphy, the renowned Killarney Pianoman Jack Patrick Healy, Aftershock the Band and Tralee Musical Society all hope to rock the Sound Bite stage over the weekend.
“We are delighted to introduce a new zone to the festival programme this year, we feel that ‘Sound Bite’ will give visitors another area to catch up with friends, grab a bite, have a dance and enjoy local talent at its finest” said Ken Tobin, Tralee Food Festival.
Garvey’s Indoor Market will showcase delicious samples of fresh local produce as well as a BBQ Demo from Award Winning Chef Mark Doe who promises to get you BBQ ready for summer!
This year’s festival itinerary incorporates a World of Food Section, Kids Zone, Workshops, Demonstrations, Food Trucks, Market Traders, Live Music, an amazing Taste Trail as well as a ‘Celebrity Cook Off’.
Tralee Food Festival Committee Member Mary Mc Quinn said; “It was crucial for us to retain what people enjoyed about the festival last year and expand on that this year. In line with our commitment to supporting local businesses and promoting sustainable practices all of our workshops and demonstrations will be offered free of charge.
“We believe it’s important that local businesses have the opportunity to tell their story, showcase their produce and ultimately gain new customers. It all feeds back into the circular economy, reducing our carbon footprint while looking after our local businesses. At this point we would also like to say a huge thank you to our sponsors, without them this festival would not be possible.”
Sponsors include: Cara Credit Union, Calor, John Lane & Sons, Kerry County Council, Lee Strand, Garvey’s Super Valu, Yummy Cafe, John Doughs, Rural Food Skillnet, O’Shea Insurance Brokers, Higgins Waste & Recycling Services, The Ashe Hotel, ef Signs, Total Cleaning Supplies, Clifford’s Cash & Carry, Convivium, McCaffrey’s, The Brand Geeks, The Rose Hotel & Mike Williams IT Support.
For a full programme of events and more information on this year’s Tralee Food Festival visit www.traleefoodfestival.com and follow on Instagram, Facebook & X.
THE draw has been made for the group stages of the All-Ireland series.
Should Kerry win the Munster final against Clare this weekend, they will face Monaghan, Meath and the runners-up of the Leinster Final, Dublin or Louth.
Should Kerry lose to Clare, they will be in a group with Tyrone, Cork and the winners of the Ulster final, Donegal or Armagh.
GAA president Jarlath Burns and director of games administration Feargal McGill made the draw which was broadcast live on GAA.ie and their social channels this afternoon.
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The 16 participating counties for the All-Ireland series were drawn into four separate groups. Teams were seeded based on Championship and League performance and each group features four teams.
Round 1 games involving the Munster finalists Kerry and Clare will be played on the weekend of May 18/19. Round 2 games will be played on the June Bank Holiday weekend and Round 3 on weekend of June 15/16.
Full fixture details will be confirmed by the C.C.C.C in due course, but Kerry’s first game will be a home one.
.The team at Ballygarry Estate And Spa celebrate their Top 10 ranking.
BALLYGARRY Estate Hotel and Spa has been ranked in the Top 10 hotels in Ireland 2024 on the most recent TripAdvisor’s Travellers Choice Awards.
The famous hotel and spa was ranked at number 9, joining fellow Kerry hoteliers Muckross Park Hotel and The Killarney Park Hotel on the prestigious Top 10 listing.
The annual Travellers’ Choice Awards are eagerly awaited each year by the hospitality industry owing to the fact that they are determined based on millions of reviews and opinions collected globally on TripAdvisor over the past year.
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“We are truly honoured to be ranked within the Top 10 Travellers’ Choice Awards and recognised on a national level,” said Padraig McGillicuddy, Proprietor Ballygarry Estate Hotel and Spa.
“It is a great credit to our dedicated team who specialise in delivering a seamless and unforgettable experiences to each of our guests,” he added.
The Top 10 Hotels in Ireland are;
1. The Merrion Hotel
2. The Killarney Park Hotel
3. Harvey’s Point
4. Adare Manor
5. The Mont, Dublin
6. Dromoland Castle
7. Hayfield Manor
8. Muckross Park Hotel
9. Ballygarry Estate Hotel and Spa
10. Hyatt Centric the Liberties Dublin
.At the launch of the charity walk were, from left; David McCarty of AADI, Kieran Corcoran of Corcoran’s Furniture and Carpets; James O’Donoghue, Shane O’Callaghan and Mikayla Corcoran. Photo: Drew Dineen
FORMER Kerry footballer James O’ Donoghue has formally launched Corcoran’s Furniture and Carpets charity walk in aid of Autism Assistance Dogs Ireland (AADI).
The event will take place on Saturday, June 8 through the iconic Gap of Dunloe. Killarney AADI family, Darragh Cattigan, his mum, Áine, and star of the show, Darragh’s super-hero dog, Buzz, also attended the launch in support of the walk.
A key feature of the launch included a talk from the Head of AADI Fundraising, David McCarthy, and he discussed the positive impact that corporate fundraising has on the charity.
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Speaking at the launch, Kerry All Ireland medallist, James O’ Donoghue said: ‘I am thrilled to be supporting the Corcoran’s charity walk in aid of AADI, and I am looking forward to taking part on the day. AADI is a wonderful charity that makes a genuine difference to children with Autism and their families.”
Áine Cattigan spoke about the importance of their AADI dog Buzz, and the difference that Buzz has made to their family
“We as a family feel beyond grateful that Buzz has come into our lives,” she said. “It is hard to put into words the difference that our phenomenal Autism assistance dog has made to us. When we go out in public, we are now safe in the knowledge that Buzz will help to keep Darragh away from harm.
“As they are joined by a lead tied around Darragh’s waist, Buzz prevents him from potentially bolting into ongoing traffic, or from running off. Buzz also helps to keep Darragh calm, and they have a genuine bond that is a joy to behold.
“As Darragh’s mother, I am now able to go on outings with just the two of us without worrying, this allows my husband and my other sons to enjoy valuable family time together also. Buzz has changed our entire world; we are forever grateful for him, and we are delighted to support Corcoran’s charity walk for AADI in any way that we can.”
The aim of Corcoran’s Gap of Dunloe walk is to raise as much funds as possible for AADI, hence, the walk is open to the public, with a minimum fundraising target of €100 per person (this includes the cost of the boat trip and lunch).
The event is pre-booking only, and Corcoran’s would love people of all ages to sign up and join this exciting day out for a truly worthy cause.
Registration on the day of the walk, for those who have pre-booked, will commence at 9.30am on Saturday, 8 June at Ross Castle, Killarney.
The boats will depart at 10.30am, taking all participants on an hour-long journey through the stunning lakes of Killarney. This will be followed by an 11K walk (approximately 2.5 – 3 hours) from Lord Brandon’s Cottage to Kate Kearny’s cottage, where lunch will be served upon completion of the walk.
Corcoran’s Furniture will provide a complimentary bus service back to Ross Castle for all those participating in the fundraising event. All funds raised will go directly towards the training of an assistance dog, which will change a child’s life as well as the lives of their loved ones.
MTU welcomed over 120 stakeholders to the Kerry North Campus last Friday for the ‘Connect with MTU’ event.
This event was an opportunity for anyone to connect with the university. Companies, start-ups, businesses, entrepreneurs, community groups and the general public were invited to visit the campus from 8.30am to 11.00am.
According to Anne Looney, External Services Manager, Kerry the event was a great success. “This is the first year we held this event, and we were delighted with the reaction. We host many Open Days throughout the year which are very much focused on CAO applicants. This event provided an opportunity for us to engage with our wider stakeholder groups”.
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“Companies looking for research support to bring innovation into their business could meet our Research Centres, Clusters and Technology Gateways. Our lifelong department was there to guide potential applicants through the courses on offer or talk to companies about upskilling their staff. Kerry Sports Academy provided tours of the facilities and offered fitness testing on the day. The morning provided a great occasion to network and meet our partners such Kerry County Council, SkillNet and Tech Industry Alliance”.
For anyone who missed the day and would like to connect with the university please contact Anne Looney at anne.looney@mtu.ie. Scroll down for photos…
STUDENTS from three schools in Tralee have been shortlisted for the Young Social Innovators of the Year Awards, due to take place on May 9 in the Aviva Stadium, Dublin.
The students will join finalists from three other Kerry schools and 15 other counties who have reached the final of the prestigious awards for their social innovation projects across categories including, ‘Planet Protectors’, ‘Push Back on Poverty’ and ‘Make our World a Safer Place’.
The Kerry schools travelling to the Aviva Stadium from Kerry include Castleisland Community College, Presentation Secondary School, Tralee, St. Brendan’s College, Killarney, C.B.S. Secondary School, Tralee, Killorglin Community College and Mercy Secondary School, Tralee.
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The CBS The Green project is ‘Cost of Living Crisis’, shortlisted in the Push Back on Poverty Award category. Mercy Mounthawk students have two projects — ‘Sunny Souls’ in the Open and Equal Communities Award category and ‘Measure Your Pressure’, shortlisted in the Virgin Media Digital Innovators Award category.
Presentation Secondary School Tralee students have Mental Health Awareness, shortlisted in the Healthy Connections Award category.
The YSI awards, now in their twenty-third year, celebrate excellence in youth-led social innovation nationwide and over forty teams successfully pitched to a panel of expert judges to earn a place on the 2024 shortlist.
PEIL FAOI 7/8/9: Our Under 7/8/9 outdoor academy was a great success last Sunday i gCathair Sailí! The 3rd outdoor session of ‘24 will take place Caherslee at 11am on Sunday next (5th May). Come along, boys, and enjoy another great Sunday morning football session. Fáilte roimh chách!
PEIL FAOI 11: (i) Brilliant U11 GoGames football was played on Thursday last v Ballymac. Well done, all! We look forward to another interesting outing on Thursday next at 6.30pm. Expect text! (ii) We’re all eagerly looking forward to our annual trip to Kilmacud, Dublin, on the 12thMay. (iii) And Football-For-Fun will continue at 10.50am on Sunday next (5ú Bealtaine) in Caherslee. Last Sunday’s session was very much enjoyed by all.
FAOI 13: Our boys are enjoying their County League matches. All are looking forward to our next game. Expect text. Training will take place on Tuesday night at the MTU.
IOMÁNAÍOCHT FAOI 15: ‘Well done’ to two U15 Rock boys, Ben Litchfield and Haulie Cotter, who hurled v Ballyheigue and won the Division 1 U15 Féile final. They’ve booked their place in the National Féile finals in Wexford. Go n-éirí go geal leo!
PEIL FAOI 15: (i) County League Division 9B…AdeS B: 5-8; Ardfert B: 2-4. Congratulations to our U15B team on qualifying for a County League semi-final after another fine victory. The game was played in Ardfert on Sunday last (28th). The match had many of the hallmarks of the last outing (sa Ghaeltacht), a game in which our boys had control throughout and moved up the gears in the second half as required and were comfortable in their play and were deserving winners.
Thanks to Ardfert for arranging the match at short notice and thanks to the referee for his handling of the game. ‘Well done’ to our match captain, Seán, and to all the boys who gave of their ‘almighty best.’ That was another excellent team performance. Bhí spiorad agus anam sna himreoirí. ‘Well done’ to the returning Alex O’Flaherty who is a great addition to the squad. The Rock Player of the Match: Diarmuid Hennessy who was a colossus in defence.
(ii) The final group game was played on Monday last (29th) in Connolly Park v Ballymac. Well done, boys! The U15Bs: Alex O’Flaherty, Conor Hanafin, Conor Murphy, David Ahern (1-3), Dean Courtney, Diarmuid Hennessy, Ediart Topali, Eliot Calleja (0-1), Ewan Canty, Fionn Cotter, Jaden Kareem, Jayden O’Dowd, Joe Barry (2-3), Kyle Yoxhall (2-1), Liam Swords, Mark Foley, Nathan O’Connor, Oisín Cotter, Seán McCannon, Tadhg Somers, Tom Dawson. We are now unbeaten after 4 rounds of the County League Division 9B. An Charraig Abú! (Ger Hobbert)
GAELTACHT SCHOLARSHIP: Like to improve your Irish in the West Kerry Gaeltacht? Please contact the secretary of Bord Thrá Lí (GAA) to apply for a Gaeltacht Scholarship.
AN GAELCHOLÁISTE: Comhghairdeachas ó chroí le peileadóirí ban GCC. D’éirigh leis an bhfoireann shinsearach peile, le Stacaigh Ellen Ní Luasaigh agus Emer Ní Dhuilleáin ar bord, buachaint ar An Port Nua/Tulach Sheasta/Newport, Contae Thiobraid Árann, i gcluiche leathcheannais na Mumhan. Bhuaigh siad le farasbarr de 6-0 (9-6 go 3-6). Éacht agus mórghaisce gan aon agó…ar aghaidh leo anois go cluiche ceannais na Mumhan (dáta le deimhniú)! (Dáithí Ó Loinsigh)
PEIL FAOI 17: Our minors have two games played in the Central League. Our 1st outing was against Churchill at home in Connolly Park with a very young team. Though unsuccessful on the scoreboard, they put up a great show against older players and one couldn’t fault their brave efforts.
Our 2nd minor game was against a strong Ballymac team and, again, we were on the wrong side of the result. However, lining out with 11 minors in their first year is a daunting task but it is a great learning experience for them. Taithí a dhéanann máistreacht.
We played our 3rd match on Monday last v Laune Ranger ar an bPoc (i gCill Orglan). Painéal na Carraige: Leon Sweeney; Gabriel Maszorek, Max Maszorek, Rian Walsh; Ben Litchfield, Fionnán Ryan, Adam Johnston; Alex Touhy, Liam O’Connell; Harry Murphy, Cormac Bastible, Jack Diggin; Tomás O’Connell, Ben Murphy, Rory Lynch; Jack Shanahan, Tadhg Falvey, Darragh Lyons. An bhainistíocht: Theo Ó Duigín, David Courtney, Ronan Kavanagh, Liam Lynch, Frankie Murphy. (Theo Ó Duigín)
CLUB MERCHANDISE: Club merchandise from O’Neills. Log into www.austinstacks.ie
THANKS: Thanks to all club lotto supporters and especially to: (i) PC Books, Sráid na Carraige; (ii) O’Flynn Interiors, Sráid na Carraige; (iii) Hussey’s Deli and Newsagency, Cé an Phrionsa; (iv) The Burger Shack, Móin an Bhealaigh; (v) The Brogue, Sráid na Carraige, (vi) Siopa Chaoimhín de Barra, Ollmhargadh Grósaera na Carraige.
IMREOIRÍ SINSEARACHA CHIARRAÍ: Good wishes to Joe, Dylan, Armin, (Joey) and Kerry in Cusack Park v Clare, ‘well done’ to Aoife Ní Dhuilleáin agus Mná na Ríochta v Corcaigh and ‘well done’ to the senior hurlers v Down in the Joe McDonagh Cup competition.
CIARRAÍ FAOI 20: ‘Well done’ to Michael Tansley (cúl báire), Daniel Kirby (12), Paddy Lane and their Kerry colleagues v Cork in the Munster Final on Wednesday (Lá Bealtaine).
CIARRAÍ FAOI 17: ‘Well done’ to Wayne and his Kerry minors v Cork on Tuesday last. The Rock boys on the panel: Ben Ó Murchú (8)(captain), Fionnán Ó Riain (2), Rónán Ó Cearúill (14), Gavin Ó Cathasaigh (19), (Ryan Ó Drisceoil).
.The Kerry Camino committee who gathered at The Meadowlands Hotel last night making final preparations for this weekend’s event. Photo by Adrienne McLoughlin
IT’S all systems go as the annual Kerry Camino is set to take place this May Bank Holiday Weekend.
Walking in the footsteps of St. Brendan along the Dingle Way – Kerry Camino is not just a great idea to encourage walking tourism, but is reviving Kerry’s links with pilgrims of the past.
The guided walk is held annually over three days of the May Bank Holiday Weekend. Friday sees walkers going from Tralee to Camp, on Saturday it’s Camp to Annascaul and Sunday sees walkers travel from Annascaul to Dingle.
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Registration and gathering of walkers will be at 8.30am on Friday morning at St. John’s carpark, Castle Street, Tralee with a welcome and blessing of participants by St. Johns Church Parish Priest, Fr. Tadhg Fitzgerald (or his representative.) The walk will depart at 9 a.m.
Over the days, walkers pass through rugged mountainous and coastal scenery, through towns and villages, with stations along the way where logbooks can be stamped until reaching the final destination at the Spanish built Church of St. James in Dingle and receive the Kerry Camino Certificate of Completion.
In times past, Kerry pilgrims set off for La Coruna in Northern Spain from St. James Church in Dingle, others from St. James Gate in Dublin and other locations.
The Kerry Camino first took place in June 2012. Numbers have been increasing steadily since then, to present day numbers of 250 and more.
A certain level of fitness is required for this 3-day event, with appropriate footwear, clothing, snacks and drinks. Each day’s walking is approx. 6-7 hours. Transport and luggage transfer is provided if required by participants.
There will be refreshments and entertainment for the group at the end of each day’s walking at the Railway Tavern in Camp; Hanafin’s in Annascaul and Paul Geaney’s in Dingle.
Additional information about Kerry Camino can be found by contacting them via email or on our website/facebook pages: Email: info@kerrycamino.com Website: www.kerrycamino.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/KerryCamino
.Sinn Féin candidates in the upcoming Local Elections in Kerry with Sinn Féin TD Pa Daly and Director of Elections Martin Ferris at the Rose Hotel last night.
SINN Féin officially launched its local election campaign in Kerry last night at an event held in the Rose Hotel in Tralee.
Sinn Féín is running 13 candidates across the six local electoral areas in the county. They are running four candidates in the Tralee Electoral Area — Paddy Kevane, Deirdre Ferris, Cathal Foley and Paul Daly.
Launching their campaign Kerry TD Pa Daly told the audience: “If you want change, you have to vote for it in the council elections, in the EU election and in the General Election when it comes.”
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“The number of candidates that Sinn Féin are running in the local elections here in Kerry is testament to our ambition to deliver positive change in every area.”
“We want councils to deliver for communities on housing, on planning and on delivering better local services.
“We are determined to elect the strongest possible team of Sinn Féin councillors to hopefully work with a Sinn Féin led government after the next general election delivering the largest social and affordable home building programme in the history of the state.”
THE 2024 Kerry Education and Training Board (Kerry ETB) Student Awards Ceremony was held in Killarney recently, giving recognition for exceptional student accomplishments and displaying the dedication and talent of Kerry ETB’s young students and learners from across their schools and Youthreach centres.
In a night filled with applause and pride, Kerry ETB presented awards to 64 students and learners, spanning 13 distinct categories.
Among these were recognition for outstanding academic excellence, exceptional character, participation in school life, and remarkable sporting achievement.
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The ceremony, held to honour achievements during the last academic year, illuminated the hard work and commitment of the students and leaners.
Aliza Gul, recipient of one of the Transition Year Achievement Award winners, expressed her thoughts on the achievement. “Receiving this award is not just about recognition, it’s a testament to the power of dedication and the belief that every effort, no matter the size, contributes to something greater,” she remarked.
Gratitude towards the dedicated staff comprising over 1300 individuals across the county was highlighted by the management.
From directors to teachers, their unwavering commitment to the students’ success was acknowledged with heartfelt appreciation.
The support network extending beyond the school gates was also recognised. Boards of Management, Student and Parents’ Councils, and the Kerry ETB Board were lauded for their tireless efforts in ensuring the delivery of high-quality educational opportunities tailored to meet the diverse needs of Kerry ETB’s students and learners.
Sporting Excellence Award recipient Joseph Lovett who was one of four in this category shared his thoughts about what sport has done or him.
“Sports taught me more than just winning, it has taught me the value of teamwork and perseverance. This award motivates me to continue pushing and striving for greatness.”
Receiving one of the Gold Medal Award for the best overall academic results Lauren O’Sullivan said; “this award is not just a recognition of my academic achievements, but also a reflection of the passion and dedication I have for learning. From an early age, I have been fascinated by math, science, and engineering, and to see my efforts being acknowledged is incredibly rewarding.”
The Kerry ETB Student Awards Ceremony stood as a testament to the remarkable talent and potential nurtured within the ETB’s schools, centres and campuses promising a brighter future for all students and learners.
.Best Art Direction winner, Ellen McSweeney pictured at Fresh Film Ireland’s Young Film Maker of the Year 2024. Photo: Don Moloney
A KERRY student has won an award at the Ireland’s Young Filmmaker of the Year Awards.
Ellen McSweeney won the Best Art Direction award for her short, ‘Summer’. Ellen was one of seventeen award recipients at the 2024 IYFTYs, which were broadcast on RTÉ2 on this Monday evening.
Summer is described as “a meditation on the hazy summer season, the beauty, nostalgia and joy, but also the dread, the pressure and fear of the future. The summer can’t last forever after all.”
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Now in its 28th year, the IYFTY’s, part of the esteemed Fresh International Film Festival, continues to be a beacon for aspiring filmmakers worldwide.
LEE Strand and Kerry Garda have launched the Lee Strand / Kerry Garda Youth Achievement Awards 2024.
The awards are held for youths between the ages of 13 and 21 years and recognise the great contribution young people have made and continue to make to their communities in Kerry.
The awards will be presented at a celebratory dinner awards ceremony in the Ballyroe Heights Hotel, Tralee on Friday, September 27.
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This year 20 Merit Awards will be presented to individuals who have made a positive contribution to their community and make it a better place to live.
A Group Award will also be presented to groups of two or more people who have made an impact to their community.
The Special Achievement Award will be presented to an individual who has overcome difficult circumstances, has defied all the odds and whose commitment deserves recognition.
A Community Safety Award will be presented to an individual who through crime prevention or a safety initiative/innovation has made their community a safer place to live.
The Overall Winner of the Lee Strand/Kerry Garda Youth Achievement 2024 will also be presented.
Chief Superintendent Padraic Powell stated; ”The Lee Strand / Kerry Garda Youth Achievement Awards is an excellent initiative to recognise the central role the country’s youth play in society’s future. It is important to recognise their excellence in the areas of charity, culture, arts, sports or caring for a friend or relative. I would like to extend our appreciation and thanks to Lee Strand for their continued sponsorship and support.”
Gearoid Linnane, CEO, Lee Strand stated; “Lee Strand has a strong commitment to supporting initiatives within the local community and we are delighted to support the Kerry Garda Youth Achievement Awards since its commencement in 1998. The awards provide a great opportunity to celebrate and recognise the achievements of the young people of Kerry, who have made a positive impact within their local community.”
The closing date for receipt of nominations is Friday, May 31st 2024. Nominations are available from any Garda Station in Kerry or are also available to download on www.leestrand.ie/garda-awards/
Any member of the public can nominate a young person whom they feel has made a contribution to their local area.
Nominations are accepted from individuals, community and voluntary groups, schools and youth clubs/organisation.
The winners will be selected by a panel of judges who are community volunteers from around the county under the chairmanship of Chief Superintendent Padraic Powell, An Garda Síochána.
.Kerry, Munster Minor Champions. Photo: Colbert O’Sullivan
Cork 0-13
Kerry 3-10
Kerry are Munster Minor A Champions following a deserving and thrilling win in Mallow on Sunday.
While the pitch was in excellent condition heavy rain prior to throw in made handling conditions difficult for both sides. Kerry went into the game minus a couple of key players and possible went in as underdogs.
Cork had a large contingent of last years minor panel available to them and they started the brightest with a point in the third minute. Mary Kate Smith responded for the Kingdom as both sides played positive football despite the conditions.
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As the sides kept exchanging scorers Kerry were possibly guilty early on of going for goal when a point was possibly the better option. But this didn’t knock their confidence. In fact they grew into the game and began to dominate it more as it wore on.
Katie Doe with her first point of the afternoon midway through the first half saw Kerry back in the lead. Two minutes later Kerry had their first goal.
Leah McMahon in action. Photo: Colbert O’Sullivan
Katie Doe from the penalty spot after referee Patrick Smith judged Cork to have committed a foot block. Kerry now had a four-point lead.
Cork reduced the deficit with a pointed free from Eabha Donovan but what was to follow was a Kerry goal that surprised everyone.
Kelly Enright’s long ball deceiving the Kerry forwards and Cork backs bouncing in front of Cork keeper Andrea Toye who taught it was going over for a point and ended up in the back of the net.
Kerry’s Kathryn Ryan and Cork’s Maebh Collins in action. Photo: Colbert O’Sullivan
It opened up a six-point lead and it was no more than Kerry deserved as they were the more dominant team for large parts of the first half limiting Cork to just three points from play in the first half.
Kerry added a further three points to open up an eight-point lead at the break. Cork had the advantage of the wind in the second half and were playing into the scoring end of Mallow.
They started the brightest of the two with a Maebh Collins point to reduce the deficit. Kerry was still playing with the same intensity as they had in the first but it was Cork who looked like threating for a goal.
Their first opportunity came four minutes in but Béibhinn Nic an tSithigh pulled off a magnificent save to keep them at bay. The sides exchanged points before Cork had shot number two at goal but Béibhinn Nic an tSithigh was at her best once again to keep them at bay.
Leah McMahon & Eabha O’Donovan exchanged frees as the gap remained at eight points. Mid way through the second half Kerry got their third goal of the game.
Amy Curtin who was back from injury and made a substitute appearance in the win against Clare was making her first start on Sunday rifled home to the top corner of the net to the delight of the Kerry supporters in the stand.
Kerry was now firmly in control and a lead they truly deserved. Cork as you would expect kept throwing everything at Kerry and were tapping over the scores.
Kerry’s goal was to be their last score of the game but that is not to take away from some of the excellent defending and work rate displayed by everyone of the Kerry players for the remainder of the match and indeed throughout the match.
Anna Collins leading by example showing great leadership in the final quarter when Cork kept pressing for that goal in the hope of igniting a late comeback. Cork kept the scoreboard ticking over with points from Eabha O’Donovan and Ava McAuliffe.
In the dying moments Cork had one last attack on the Kerry goal but Béibhinn Nic an tSithigh was once again alert to the danger and keep her clean sheet intact.
Shortly after referee Patrick Smith blew the fulltime whistle to the delight to the Kerry supporter, players and management. Kerry now go forward to the All Ireland Semi Final on Thursday 11th July. Details TBC.
Cork Scorers: E O’Donovan (0-08 6f), A McAuliffe (0-03), A Savage (0-01), M Collins (0-01)
Kerry Scorers: K Doe (1-03 – 1p -1f), L McMahon (0-04f), M K Smith (0-01), L O’Connor (0-02), A Curtin (1-0), K Enright (1-0)
Cork: A Toye, A O’Sullivan, A McKennedy, A Cooper, M McRae, K Goulding, A Savage, K Williamson, A Fitzgerald, B Smith, M Collins, Ó Cremin, É O’Donovan, K Carey, A McAuliffe
Subs: C Murphy for K Carey 41mins , A Sheppard for O Cremin 41mins, H Sheehy for A O’Sullivan 48mins, L Murphy for A Sheppard 58mins
Kerry: B Nic an tSithigh, A O’Donoghue, É Ní Laighinn, G Murphy, C Dwyer, S O’Donovan, L O’Sullivan, K Enright, K Ryan, A Curtin, M K Smith, L O’Connor, K Doe, L McMahon, A Collins
Subs: L Slattery for K Doe 51mins, S Colleran for C Dwyer 58mins
Lotto results: Lotto Tue 23rd April 2024. Numbers drawn were 4, 10, 18, 25. No winner. Lucky dip winners of €20 were Katherine Duggan, Dylan Seymour, John O’Connor, Kieran O’Donovan (Finch), Marian Murphy. Our next draw will be tomorrow night and the jackpot will be €1,750. Why not try your luck in our lotto. The links is as follows:https://www.klubfunder.com/Clubs/Na%20Gaeil%20CLG/lotto
RIP: As a mark of respect to our dear friend Moira Godley, mother of Seán U7’s and Michael U9’s, Sunday’s U5’s, U7’s and U9’s academy did not take place.
Moira was a great supporter of our club and was always a presence in the club on Sunday mornings.
Our thoughts and prayers are with her children Michael and Seán, her partner Patrick and extended Godley & Scannell families at this very difficult time. May She Rest in Peace.
Bingo: Na Gaeil Bingo tonight at 8pm sharp. Our Mini Accumulater Jackpot House tonight is €250 in 45 calls. We also have a Raffle and Split the Bucket at half time. Bus available on (087) 2817577. Over 18s only. Hope to see you all there for an excellent night out.
Volunteers: The club are looking for people to help out at bingo on Monday nights. If you can spare 2 hours every 5 or 6 weeks then Niamh (087-9863667) would be delighted to have you on board.
Scór: Scór is very much a ’niche’ activity within Na Gaeil. Of course we’re first & foremost a football club, but Scór is the cultural arm of the GAA and is a really great thing to be involved in – especially for kids.
It gives them confidence & is good fun! If you’re reading this & think you might like your child to be involved, please contact Margaret at 086 0855008. Or better again, if you’re a parent with maybe something to offer to our small but enthusiastic Scór committee, please get in touch….
Soccer: Congratulations to Eoin Tansley, Danny Kingston and Tom Slattery who won the Munster A final in soccer last Friday with CBS The Green defeating Ballincollig 3-1 in Carrigaline
Kerry (Ladies) Munster Championship: Well done to the Kerry Ladies, especially Deirdre Kearney, Mary O’Connell, Bríd O’Connor, Eilís O’Connor and Jadyn Lucey, who defeated Cork in Round 2 of the Munster Senior Championship last Saturday in Brosna. In Round 3 next Sunday the girls will face Waterford in Cordal at 2pm.
Kerry (Men) Munster Championship: Best wishes to Diarmuid O’Connor, Damien Bourke, Stefan Okunbor and the Kerry team in the Munster Final against Clare next Sunday in Ennis.
Kerry Hurling: Well done to the Kerry senior hurlers, especially the Na Gaeil lads, who defeated Down in Austin Stack Park yesterday in Round 2 of the Joe McDonagh Cup.
Kerry U20s: The Kerry u20’s defeated Tipperary last Wednesday night in Round 3 of Phase 2 of the Munster u20 Championship in Austin Stack Park. They will play old rivals Cork in the Munster Final in Austin Stack Park this coming Wednesday at 7.30pm.
Kerry Minors: Good luck to the Kerry minors who play Cork tomorrow night (Tuesday) in the Munster championship quarter final. The game throws in at 7pm in Austin Stack Park.
Senior Men: Our senior men’s game yesterday V Gneeveguilla was postponed due to a bereavement in the Gneeveguilla club so our next game will see us away to Beaufort next Sunday in Round 6 of the Credit Union Co. League. Start time 2pm.
Senior Ladies: Our senior ladies got their third win in the Donal Curtin Cup yesterday when they beat Cromane in Killeen. Next Sunday the girls are due to play Scartaglen, venue possibly Cordal.
Return of underage training 2024: Our juveniles are back in training for the 2024 season. Contact details for the various age groups are as follows: U5’s – Denis Sugrue (087) 2808719. U7’s – Shane Moriarty (086) 8380434. U9s – Bryan O’Mahony 087 9585331. New members are always welcome and can contact the relevant team coach above.
U11 Boys: Well done to the under 11 boys on two very good performances against Milltown/ Castlemaine last Thursday evening. Both teams had a rocky start but stuck at it and had trojan second half performances.
We look forward to playing Firies away next Thursday. Our lads were delighted to be back training in Killeen yesterday morning. Plenty of running, kicking and tackling was practised ahead of that game against Firies on Thursday. Well done boys.
U15A Boys: Next Wednesday the lads will be at home to Laune Rangers in the Co. League at 6.45pm.
U15B Boys: Well done to our u15Bs who defeated Kerins O’Rahillys/St. Pats last Friday night.
Minor Co. League: Well done to our u17 boys who defeated John Mitchels last Monday night in their first game in the Central Region Division 1B. Tonight at 7pm they will host Keel/Listry in Round 2.
Girls Training: Na Gaeil Ladies juveniles (u8/u10/u12) are back training for the new season. New members are always welcome. For more information contact Eddie on 087-6791460.
U16 Girls: Good luck to our u16 girls who play Austin Stacks tonight in Connolly Park at 6.30pm in the North Kerry League.
U18 Girls: Our minor girls continue their Co. League campaign tomorrow when they are away to Legion at 7pm.
Big Screen: All National Football league and championship games will be shown live on the big screen in the bar throughout the season.
Sponsorship Opportunity: If you have a business and would like to promote it with Na Gaeil we have various sponsorship packages available to suit all budgets. Enquiries to Donal (087-2577729) or Terry (086-8293261) or Colm (087-9080465) or Mike (086-2440158) or any member of the club Executive.
Club History: During the year Michael Golden spent many hours putting together a list of notable club results & other information about the club since its foundation in 1978. This can now be found on our website (www.nagaeil.ie). Click on “Club News” then “Weekly notes” and select ”Old results by Michael Golden”.
Hire the Hall: The hall in the clubhouse is available for parties or other events. Please emailnagaeilclubhouse@gmail.com if you’d like to make a booking.
Na Gaeil cycle club: Cycle each Saturday at 9.30am from Na Gaeil club. Everyone is welcome to come for a nice friendly cycle.
Cards: The weekly 45 card game is held every Wednesday night starting at 9pm. Everyone is welcome.
Notes: If you’d like anything included in the club’s weekly notes please send it to me at pro.nagaeil.kerry@gaa.ie before 9am on Monday and I’ll do my best to include it.
KERRY County Council Arts Office has announced Catherine Young as Kerry County Council and Arts Council Dancer in Residence for 2024.
As a dancer and choreographer, Catherine has worked extensively in Ireland, Europe, the USA and Africa. Her choreography is heavily influenced by her explorations of African dance and has a strong sense of physicality.
During her previous residencies with Kerry County Council, Catherine established The Welcoming Project. The project welcomes new communities in Ireland, brings people together and fosters cultural integration and social inclusion through dance.
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In 2024, Catherine will continue her work as part of The Welcoming Project through weekly workshops for the Céilí Afro Dabke Ukraine initiative.
Céilí Afro Dabke Ukraine features African dance, traditional Dabke dance from Palestine/Syria and the old style Irish céilí dances as well as Ukrainian folk dances. Weekly dance workshops with live music are currently taking place in Ballybunnion, Tralee, and Dingle. The workshops are free and open to all.
It takes place on Wednesdays in Tralee, between 6pm and 7pm at the Hall in Presentation Primary School, Castle Street, Tralee, V92 X093.
A programme of workshops will also be delivered to primary schools throughout the county – coordinated and curated by Catherine.
The 2024 Dancer in Residence is co-funded by Kerry County Council and Arts Council of Ireland. As part of this year’s residency, Catherine will also continue the development of her professional work. She is currently developing a new performance entitled CISEACH | An Embodied Manifesto that involves 6 dancers and 5 musicians.
Arts Officer, Kate Kennelly welcomes the announcement with: “Over the years, Catherine has expanded Kerry’s strong reputation for dance to include contemporary works. We are delighted that through the Kerry County Council and Arts Council Dancer in Residence programme that Catherine will continue her professional and community-based projects in the County. The benefit of her work goes beyond the national and international acclaim received and positively impacts the day-to-day lives of local participants and communities.”
Catherine will be delivering an African Dance Workshop at 8pm on Thursday 2 May 2024 at Bunscoil an Chlochair in Dingle as part of the Féilie na Bealtaine programme.
To stay up to date with dance opportunities with Catherine Young follow @KerryCoArts on twitter and facebook and check out arts.kerrycoco.ie
LIVESTOCK farmers (beef, dairy, sheep, poultry and goat) from Kerry and surrounding areas are invited to attend a workshop hosted by FRED, the Food Resource Efficiency Decision Support Hub at MTU North Campus in Tralee on Tuesday, May 7 between 2pm and 4pm.
AFTER three consecutive months where numbers of patients waiting on trolleys at University Hospital Kerry were decreasing on same period the previous year, there was a sharp increase in April.
THERE was a drop in new car sales in Kerry last month compared to April 2023, according to the latest statistics from the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI).
THE most up to date statistics from the Residential Property Price Register shows that there were 24 property sales in the Tralee area in March with transactions fetching a total of €4,286,000.
KERRY County Council has published detailed information on its website in relation to the forthcoming elections to Kerry County Council. Elections for the six Local Electoral Areas in Kerry will be held on Friday, June 7.
STUDENTS from three schools in Tralee have been shortlisted for the Young Social Innovators of the Year Awards, due to take place on May 9 in the Aviva Stadium, Dublin.
