News

PHOTOS: Minister Foley Visits Scotland, Wales and England For St Patrick’s Celebrations

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Minister Norma Foley with London Mayor Sadiq Khan.

MINISTER for Education Norma Foley TD has completed  a six-day visit to Scotland, Wales and England as part of the Government’s series of St. Patrick’s Day visits.

She marched in the St Patrick’s Day parade in London and addressed the Irish Festival at Trafalgar Square. Up to 100,000 people attended the celebrations.

Minister Foley said: “I’ve travelled over the last number of days to Edinburgh, Cardiff, Huddersfield, Manchester and London. It has been a positive and uplifting experience. I’ve enjoyed every minute of it.”

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Minister Foley held a meeting with Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, who marched in the parade alongside her.

“70 million people worldwide claim Irish heritage, and an estimated six million people in Britain have at least one Irish grandparent. It has been humbling to meet Irish people who have contributed so positively to the communities in which they now live, but also keep their connectedness with Ireland.”

Minister Norma Foley with Sean Scally of Kerry County Council and Cllr Johnnie Wall.

Minister Foley met with Cabinet Secretary for Education and Skills of Scotland Jenny Gilruth in the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh and Welsh Minister for Education Jeremy Miles in the Senedd (the Welsh Parliament) in Cardiff.

She also met the Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham.

Minister Norma Foley with Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham.

Minister Foley visited Blackhall Primary School in Edinburgh where she met with students during a Gaelic football PE lesson.

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Minister Norma Foley with Shay Given.

In Cardiff, Minister Foley met with community organisations who create opportunities for people to come together through the mediums of the Irish and Welsh languages.

While in the Manchester area, Minister Foley joined with Irish-born Mayor of Kirklees Cahal Burke at Huddersfield Town Hall for the raising of an Irish flag.

She then travelled to the Irish World Heritage Centre in Manchester for a music performance for school children organised by OneEducation, the Irish Youth Foundation and the Manchester Irish Education Group.

Minister Norma Foley with Tomás Mulcahy.

The visit featured a number of meetings with representatives of business groups, including the Tourism Ireland Glasgow Office and Scottish tour operators in Edinburgh, and Enterprise Ireland roundtable meetings on technology enabling engagement and participation in schools.

Ministet Norma Foley with Scottish Cabinet Secretary for Education Jenny Gilruth.
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Business/Property, News

PHOTOS: MTU Hosts Enterprise Showcase And Kerry Start-Up Challenge

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The MTU Enterprise Showcase and Kerry Start-Up Challenge 2024 which took place on Friday 15th March at MTU North Campus saw seven participants from the New Frontiers Programme based at the Tom Crean Centre win awards. Pictured back row from left: Sean Ryan, Aspen Grove, Tim Daly, MTU, Stephen Wilson-Downey, CEO Speire and AIP Technology, Stephen Stack, AIB, Prof. Joseph Walsh, IMaR, Emily Reen, New Frontiers Programme Manager, MTU, Erin Lonergan, MTU, Anne Looney, MTU, Tom Fitzmaurice, Kerry Innovation Centre, Ogie Sheehy, ViClarity, Sean Cooke, AIB Business Banking. Award winners front row from left: Emma Cullinane, Sense of Wonder, Kerry McCarthy Brady, Hercules Building Systems, Jack Norman, Zirkulu, Zaneta Labuz-Czerwein, Rustic Boowa, Paula Carroll, Keynote Speaker, Enterprise Ireland, Annemarie O’Brien, Honor & Bloom, Orla Breslin, Recluse & Bird and Alan Yeun, HypoPods. Photo: Pauline Dennigan Photo: Pauline Dennigan

THE MTU Enterprise Showcase and Kerry Start-Up Challenge 2024 took place on Friday March 15 on the grounds of Munster Technological University, North Campus, Tralee.

It was organised by the MTU Kerry Campus Enterprise Team; Emily Reen, Enterprise Co-Ordinator and New Frontiers Programme Manager, Erin Lonergan, Programme Administrator, Anne Looney, External Services Manager and Grainne Maunsell, External Services.

This event brought together over 18 early stage start-ups in Kerry under three years to exhibit their businesses in the morning to a panel of Judges.

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The judges on the day comprised of Stephen Stack, Senior Branch Manager, AIB and President of Tralee Chamber Alliance, Anne Looney, External Services Manager, MTU and Stephen Wilson-Downey, CEO of Speire and AIP Technology.

Patrick Griffin, AIB, Yvonne Murphy, AIB and Stephen Stack, AIB at the MTU Enterprise Showcase and Kerry Start-Up Challenge 2024 which took place on Friday 15th March at MTU North Campus. Photo: Pauline Dennigan

Each exhibitor had the opportunity to deliver a 90 second elevator pitch for the roaming judges at their exhibition stands. Judges then shortlisted 4x Start-Ups to pitch for the live pitching competition in the early afternoon in front of a live audience.

There were also a line-up of speakers at the afternoon event, comprised of Enterprise Ireland’s National New Frontiers Programme Manager, Paula Carroll, Keynote Speaker, Ogie Sheehy of ViClarity and MTU’s Head of Strategy and Performance, Tim Daly.

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The Enterprise Showcase is run in conjunction with the final showcase event for the Enterprise Ireland’s New Frontiers Programme and supported by the MTU Innovation & Enterprise Month.

Emily Reen, Enterprise Co-Ordinator and New Frontiers Programme Manager at MTU with Ogie Sheehy, ViClarity and John Gannon at the MTU Enterprise Showcase and Kerry Start-Up Challenge 2024 which took place on Friday 15th March at MTU North Campus. Photo: Pauline Dennigan

The Award Winners on the day included:

• Best Tech Business – €1,000 * Sponsored by ViClarity – Kerry McCarthy Brady, Hercules Building Systems
• Best Non-Tech Business – €1,000 *Sponsored by IMaR Reseach Centre – Jack Norman, Zirkulu
• Best Exhibition Stand – €500 *Sponsored by MTU – Annemarie O’Brien, Honor & Bloom
• Best Runner-Up Pitch – €250 *Sponsored by AIB – Emma Cullinane, Sense of Wonder
• Best Pitch – €500 *Sponsored by Kerry Innovation Centre – Zaneta Labuz-Czerwein, Rustic Boowa
• Judges Choice Award – A Ticket to TechFest *Sponsored by Tech Industry Alliance – Orla Breslin, Recluse & Bird
• Judges Choice Award – A Ticket to TechFest *Sponsored by Tech Industry Alliance – Alan Yeun, HypoPods

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Speaking on behalf of the event, Emily Reen said: “Starting and growing a company has always been challenging, but today, more than ever, it is harder for new businesses to raise capital and expand swiftly as the working world navigates widespread inflation and economic instability.

Sara Morrissey, MTU, Mike Casey, MTU, Sean Ryan, Aspen Grove and Tom Fitzmaurice, Technology Gateway Manager, MTU at the MTU Enterprise Showcase and Kerry Start-Up Challenge 2024 which took place on Friday 15th March at MTU North Campus. Photo: Pauline Dennigan

The New Frontiers programme provides an ideal opportunity for entrepreneurs at a start-up stage to be plugged in to an ecosystem that is agile and used to helping indigenous entrepreneurs to provide solutions to worldwide challenges.”

Professor Joseph Walsh, Director, IMAR and Dr. Tim Yeomans, Shannon ABC at the MTU Enterprise Showcase and Kerry Start-Up Challenge 2024 which took place on Friday 15th March at MTU North Campus. Photo: Pauline Dennigan

The eleven entrepreneurs participating in this year’s programme are following on in the footsteps of over 500 entrepreneurs who have used MTU to successfully launch their businesses over the past decade. The innovative business ideas that were chosen this year span a range of industries from cutting-edge technology to food and healthcare.

Niall Burke, Shannon ABC, Luke O’Donnell, IMAR and Niall Larkin, RDI Hub at the MTU Enterprise Showcase and Kerry Start-Up Challenge 2024 which took place on Friday 15th March at MTU North Campus. Photo: Pauline Dennigan
Emma Cullinane, Sense of Wonder and Gearóid Kearney, RDI Hub at the MTU Enterprise Showcase and Kerry Start-Up Challenge 2024 which took place on Friday 15th March at MTU North Campus. Photo: Pauline Dennigan
Zaneta Labuz-Czerwein from Rustic Boowa Café taking part in the live pitching competition at the MTU Enterprise Showcase and Kerry Start-Up Challenge 2024 which took place on Friday 15th March at MTU North Campus. Photo: Pauline Dennigan

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Sport

PHOTOS/REPORT: Kerry Get Back To Winning Ways Against Meath

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Deniese O’Flaherty reports on Kerry’s win over Meath in the Lidl National Football League Division 1 on Sunday in Ashbourne…

Kerry 1-15 

Meath 0-5 

The Kerry panel before the Lidl LGFA National League Division 1 Round 6 match between Meath and Kerry at Donaghmore Ashbourne GAA Club in Ashbourne, Meath. Photo by Brendan Moran/Sportsfile

Louise Ní Mhuircheartaigh led the way with a haul of 0-8 as Kerry put in a clinical performance against Meath in Donaghmore-Ashbourne.

She kicked six of them from play and such was Kerry’s dominance, particularly in the second half, Meath were limited to just scoring two points after the break and managed just a single point from play throughout the contest.

This result moved reigning Division 1 Champions Kerry back up to second place in the table with just one game remaining.

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Just 19 seconds had elapsed when Ní Mhuircheartaigh opened the scoring. One minute later she created a goal chance but her effort was saved by Monica McGuirk.

Ní Mhuircheartaigh scored her second point in the third minute. Meath kept in touch with Kerry in the opening 10 minutes with three frees from the boot of Emma Duggan.

Cáit Lynch of Kerry, left, in action against teammate Ciara Murphy and Emma Duggan of Meath during the Lidl LGFA National League Division 1 Round 6 match between Meath and Kerry at Donaghmore Ashbourne GAA Club in Ashbourne, Meath. Photo by Brendan Moran/Sportsfile

Playing with the aid of a strong wind Kerry kept the scoreboard ticking over with six unanswered points. Meath couldn’t create many scoring opportunities.

Emma Dineen shot wide in the 16th minute as the visitors dominated proceedings. Hannah O’Donoghue kicked over two fine points while Ní Mhuircheartaigh and Niamh Carmody were also on the scoresheet as Kerry held a six point lead at the break at 0-9 to 0-3.

McGuirk was called into action in the first minute of the second half,saving a shot from sub Danielle O’Leary. Kerry got their first score from a placed ball in the 33rd minute when Ní Mhuircheartaigh hit over a free.

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Kerry played some good football and Meath couldn’t contain them. The lead was nine points in the 38th minute when Dineen fisted over. Shelly Melia kicked over a terrific point for Meath in the 39th minute, their first in 30 minutes of play.

That score was cancelled out minutes later when Ní Mhuircheartaigh scored her seventh point of the game. Kerry extended their lead to 13 points in the 45th minute when Dineen blasted the ball to the net.

Aishling O’Connell of Kerry in action against Emma Duggan of Meath during the Lidl LGFA National League Division 1 Round 6 match between Meath and Kerry at Donaghmore Ashbourne GAA Club in Ashbourne, Meath. Photo by Brendan Moran/Sportsfile

Meath woes were compounded in the 49th minute when Ciara Smtyth was sin-binned. Ní Mhuircheartaigh kicked over a free in the 51st minute to put 14 points between the sides. Meath scored a consolation point right at the end when Marion Farrelly pointed a free.

Scorers – Kerry: L Ní Mhuircheartaigh 0-8 (0-2f), E Dineen 1-2, H O’Donoghue 0-3, N Carmody 0-1, L Scanlon 0-1.

Meath: E Duggan 0-3f, S Melia 0-1, M Farrelly 0-1f.

Kayleigh Cronin of Kerry in action against Shelly Melia, left, and Aoibhín Cleary of Meath during the Lidl LGFA National League Division 1 Round 6 match between Meath and Kerry at Donaghmore Ashbourne GAA Club in Ashbourne, Meath. Photo by Brendan Moran/Sportsfile 
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Anna Galvin of Kerry in action against Megan Thynne of Meath during the Lidl LGFA National League Division 1 Round 6 match between Meath and Kerry at Donaghmore Ashbourne GAA Club in Ashbourne, Meath. Photo by Brendan Moran/Sportsfile
Hannah O’Donoghue of Kerry in action against Nicole Troy of Meath during the Lidl LGFA National League Division 1 Round 6 match between Meath and Kerry at Donaghmore Ashbourne GAA Club in Ashbourne, Meath. Photo by Brendan Moran/Sportsfile
Louise Ní Mhuircheartaigh of Kerry in action against Mary Kate Lynch of Meath during the Lidl LGFA National League Division 1 Round 6 match between Meath and Kerry at Donaghmore Ashbourne GAA Club in Ashbourne, Meath. Photo by Brendan Moran/Sportsfile
Kerry joint-managers Declan Quill, left, and Darragh Long before the Lidl LGFA National League Division 1 Round 6 match between Meath and Kerry at Donaghmore Ashbourne GAA Club in Ashbourne, Meath. Photo by Brendan Moran/Sportsfile

KERRY: C Butler; B O’Connor, E Lynch, C Murphy; A O’Connell, K Cronin, C McCarthy; M O’Connell, A Galvin; N Carmody (c), A Harrington, L Scanlon; H O’Donoghue, E Dineen, L Ní Mhuircheartaigh. Subs: D O’Leary for Harrington (ht), C Lynch for O’Connor (38), K Brosnan for McCarthy (50), J Lucey for Ní Mhuircheartaigh (56), R Smith for Galvin (56), J Gill for A O’Connell (60).

MEATH: M McGuirk (c); K Newe, A Sheridan, N Troy; N Gallogly, M.K. Lynch, A Cleary; M O’Shaughnessy, S Melia; M Thynne, L Young, C Smyth; M Byrne, M Farrelly, E Duggan. Subs: E Moyles for Byrne (41), A McCabe for Melia (46), S Lynch for Smyth (49), O Gore for Cleary (51), A O’Leary for Duggan (58)

Referee: Shane Curley (Galway)

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Sport

PHOTOS/REPORT: After Victory Over Moycullen, Warriors Now Face Éanna In League Playoff

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Alan Cantwell on the InsureMyVan.ie Men’s Super League 2023/2024 – Round 19 game at the weekend…

Moycullen 79

Garvey’s Tralee Warriors 85

Elijah Weaver lands two of his 30 points. Photo by Liam Ryan

Garvey’s Tralee Warriors will take on Éanna in the quarter final playoff of the InsureMyVan.ie on Saturday, March 23 at Colaiste Éanna, Rathfarnham (Tip off 7pm) after the final round of regulation fixtures were played out over the weekend.

The Warriors got back to winning ways on Saturday night with an 85-79 win away to Moycullen to provide a timely arrest to a run of four straight defeats while the combination of Éanna’s win in Belfast and Killester loss at home to Maree cemented the arrangements for the quarter final playoffs.

Elsewhere Maree will host EJ Sligo AllStars, Killester will travel to Ballincollig and Belfast will play UCC Demons who easily accounted for a very disappointing Flexachem KCYMS in the final regulation game on Sunday.

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The Warriors and Moycullen produced an entertaining and highly competitive contest for a game that both sides knew had little bearing on the final League standings.

The Warriors were assured of a third place finish and Moycullen were already regulated from Super League prior to tip-off but in fairness to both teams that may not have been apparent to those that saw the game unfold.

Daniel Jokubaitis lays up in style. Photo by Liam Ryan

The hosts got off to a flying start and a combination of scores from captain Grant Olssen, Connor Dickerson, James Connaire and Aitor Perez gave the Galway side a 14-7 lead midway through the first.

Elijah Weaver fired Warriors in the contest hitting 12 of the Tralee sides 16 first quarter points and when Caleb Jordan opened his account the sides were level at 14-14.

However Olssen struck from outside and with a last gasp fast break lay-up with 3 seconds on the clock to see Moycullen lead 19-16 at quarter time.

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Olssen continued to cause the Warriors defence problems and he hit 12 straight to push the hosts ahead mid-way through the second.

Weaver was equally elusive on offence and with scores from Jordan and Cian Sullivan adding to Daniel Jokubaitis’ first three of the night the sides were level again at 29-29.

A hat trick of tough banked efforts from Jokubaitis edged the Warriors ahead for the first time in the game but Moycullen hit back through Olssen, Dickerson and Ivan Basic to take a single point lead 40-39 to the long break.

Daniel Jokubaitis arcs a score over Connor Dickerson. Photo by Liam Ryan

The Warriors came to terms with the threat posed by Olssen in the third and after the Moycullen captain struck again early in the third it was to be his only score of the quarter. Cian Sullivan, Jokubaitis and a cracking three from Eoin Quigley saw the Warriors hit the 50 point mark and lead by 5 as the clock ticked down to the fifth minute.

However the hosts wrestled the lead back with efforts from either side of the arc from Basic before Warriors took the upper hand in the contest with a decisive run late in the quarter and back to back threes from Weaver, one of the scores of the night from distance from Joshua Osayanrhion and a huge dunk from Sullivan had the visitors leading 68-61 at the end of the third.

Cian Sullivan lands a one-handed effort over Aitor Perez. Photo by Liam Ryan

Eoin Quigley’s second major pushed the advantage out to 10 early in the fourth and despite a three from Patrick Lyons and a quickfire 8 points from Basic, Jordan and Jokuabitis added to keep the Warriors lead intact.

Moycullen quickly landed in foul trouble as they tried to repel the advances of Elijah Weaver but the Warriors new signing was flawless from the line hitting six from six before the hosts talisman Olssen surrendered his fifth foul to put an end to his influence on the contest.

Back to back threes late on from Ivan Basic typified Moycullen’s effort on the night as they fought right to the very end of their 13th season in the top flight and to keep the Warriors honest. However, two clutch free throws from Caleb Jordan in the final seconds sealed the final score line of 85-79.

Moycullen: Ivan Basic 30, Grant Olssen 27, Aitor Perez 6

Garvey’s Tralee Warriors: Elijah Weaver 30, Caleb Jordan 13, Daniel Jokubaitis 11

Caleb Jordan with a jump shot. Photo by Liam Ryan

• Super League now moves into the playoffs phase and Warrior will travel to Éanna in Colaiste Éanna next Saturday for their quarter final – tip off on Saturday, March 23 at 7pm at Coláiste Eanna in Rathfarnham.

Playoffs:
A. Belfast Star v UCC Demons
B. Maree v EJ Sligo AllStars
C. Éanna v Garvey Tralee Warriors 
D. Irish Guide Dogs Ballincollig v Killester

Semi Finals:
Winners A v Winners D
Winners B v Winners C
Higher ranked team have home advantage

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News

PHOTOS: Faces In The Crowd At The Tralee St Patrick’s Day Parade

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A BEAUTIFUL day brought out thousands of people to the streets of Tralee yesterday for the St Patrick’s Day parade.

Families got in on time to line the parade route from Castle Street right up to the top of Denny Street to cheer on the participants and it was a lovely day out for all.

We captured some of the atmosphere behind the barriers on the day. Scroll down for photos…

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Mayor of Tralee Terry O’Brien and his wife Teresa. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Entertainment, News

PHOTOS: Sunshine, Dazzling Colour And A Fantastic Atmosphere For St Patrick’s Day Parade

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WITH glorious sunshine, dazzling costumes and a wonderful community spirit, the annual St Patrick’s Day parade in Tralee was a fantastic occasion with massive crowds in the town centre.

‘A World of Colour/ An Domhan trí Dhathanna’ was the theme of the parade brought to you by Tralee Chamber in partnership with Kerry County Council and The Rose Hotel.

Leading the procession as Grand Marshal were members of St Brendan’s Basketball Club, who are celebrating 30 years in existence in 2024.

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The hundreds of participants representing clubs and organisations, as well as bands and performers from the Oliver Hurley School of Musical Theatre, made their way from The Rose Hotel on to Mitchels Road, winding through Boherbee and Castle Street before arriving in Denny Street.

Hosts Jamie Flannery and Sean Crowley provided the running commentary with street performers also entertaining the crowd before and during the parade.

There was an amazing atmosphere throughout the town and the crowds dispersed afterwards to enjoy the rest of their St Patrick’s Day. Scroll down for photos…

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Loads more photos from the parade on the way tomorrow

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Business/Property, News

Sponsored: Cara Credit Union Launches Three-Year Fixed Term Deposit Account with a Guaranteed 2.8% AER

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Pa Laide CEO Cara Credit Union and Mark Hussey Chief Operations Officer Cara Credit Union launching the new 3-Year Fixed Term Deposit Account with a Guaranteed 2.8% AER.

CARA Credit Union is thrilled to announce the launch of its latest financial offering, a 3-Year Fixed Term Deposit Account, which comes with a guaranteed Annual Equivalent Rate (AER) of 2.8% (terms and conditions apply).  This exclusive offering is available for a limited time only, until April 19th, 2024, unless oversubscribed.

In response to the growing member demand for more lucrative savings options and a commitment to helping members’ money work harder for them, Cara Credit Union has tailored this new and exciting product. This special account is designed to offer members a secure and beneficial way to save, providing a competitive interest rate in the current financial climate.

Key Features of the 3-Year Fixed Term Deposit Account:

– Guaranteed Interest Rate: Members can enjoy a guaranteed AER of 2.8% for the entirety of the 3-year term, offering a stable and attractive return on their investments.

– Member-Centric Initiative: The launch of this product is a direct response to our members’ desire for more advantageous savings strategies, reinforcing Cara Credit Union’s commitment to prioritizing the financial well-being of our community.

“We’re excited to offer our members this fixed term deposit account,” said Pa Laide, CEO of Cara Credit Union. “It’s a testament to our commitment to listening to our members and adapting our services to help them grow their savings. We believe that by offering a guaranteed return with our 3-Year Fixed Term Deposit Account, we’re providing a valuable tool for financial growth and stability.”

Members interested in taking advantage of this limited-time offer are encouraged to act quickly to secure their 2.8% AER and set their savings on a path of  growth.

For more information, please visit www.caracreditunion.ie, call into a Cara Credit Union branch in Tralee, Castleisland, Killorglin, Ballyduff, Causeway, Corca Dhuibhne  or contact a Member Services Representative on 066 712 2373.

News, Sport

REPORT:Kerry FC Earn Another Point After Draw Against Cobh Ramblers

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David Moriarty reports on the Airtricity League of Ireland Division 1 game last night in Mounthawk Park…

KERRY FC 1-1 COBH RAMBLERS

Kerry FC welcomed Cobh Ramblers to Mounthawk Park for the second time this season as the two faced off for the first time in League of Ireland action on Friday evening.

In the previous fixture, Kerry won the Munster Senior Cup semi-final in a 1-0 victory.

It was a Victor Udeze debut goal in the sixty-eighth minute which separated the two sides on the day with Kerry being the dominant side throughout the proceedings.

The last league action from the two Munster sides came on the last game of the season when a Kennedy Amechi goal secured a point for the Kingdom in St. Colmans Park.

All games the teams played against each other last season were close affairs with Cobh winning two and the sides sharing two draws.

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Kerry FC first-team head coach Conor McCarthy was looking forward to the test and was happy with the direction his side were going in over the past three or so games.

Kerry FC started the game with an unchanged starting eleven that faced Athlone Town last week in Athlone. They were solid for most of the game and were fantastic to obtain their first point of the league season.

It was a lovely evening for football and a great crowd turned out for what was sure to be a very entertaining Munster Derby.

The first half as a whole was very evenly contested. Cobh had their fair of possession early on and got a couple of corners for themselves inside the opening two minutes with nothing coming from either.

Throughout the first half, Cobh gave Kerry most of their trouble from long throws and set pieces with a few near chances going begging from the Rams.

Antonio Tuta was first really called into action when he saved a shot from Jack Larkin. Tuta made seven saves in the opening forty-five and had himself well warmed up in the early exchanges.

Kerry FC had their first decent opportunity of the game in the twenty-first minute when Kennedy Amechi found space for himself to get a shot on goal which was collected by Cobh goalkeeper Darragh Burke.

Kerry only came into the game from an attacking perspective around this stage. Four minutes later a Steven Healy cross was just a touch too far for Ryan Kelliher to get anything on it as he headed over from a tough angle.

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Cobh ended the half the strongest with the away side only being one or two touches away in their attacking box from really creating a dangerous situation for Kerry.

Antonio Tuta was called into action a few more times but remained calm and composed with every shot and cross that headed towards his area.

The half ended all square. Kerry were probably the happiest of the two to get in level at that stage with Cobh perhaps having to look at themselves and be disappointed that they could not go into the interval at least a goal to the good.

The second half started the same way as the first half ended. Just five minutes after the restart Dean Larkin would have his head in his hands as he put a shot of his just to the left of the six-yard box wide of the far post where it was nothing but an empty net for him to aim into.

In the fifty-fourth minute, Daniel Okwute showed great tenacity and skill to make room for a low cross on the right wing.

It went towards Ryan Kelliher at the near post, but Darragh Burke and the Cobh defence did enough to put him off as he, unfortunately, could not guide the ball towards goal.

Ronan Teahan, Victor Udeze and Ethan Kos all entered the pitch with a large portion still left in the game and made a difference as the fresh legs gave Kerry FC that bit more of an attacking threat that was not there before.

In the seventieth minute, the evidence of a greater Kerry FC attacking threat was exhibited as the Kingdom took the lead through Ryan Kelliher.

Fantastic work from the side in the build-up to the goal as they sprayed the ball along their own half and took their time to pounce and did so brilliantly.

Sean McGrath received the ball just inside the area after a cross from Sean O’Connell was not cleared by Justin Eguaibor. McGrath kept going in and held off his marker very well to go further in towards goal and squared it to Kelliher to get his first of the season.

Ryan was Kerry FC’s top goal scorer last season and got off the mark on the evening with what could only be described as a pure poacher’s finish.

Unfortunately, after the great work the home side showed to get in front, just five minutes later Cobh equalised through a top-class finish from James O’Leary.

He received the ball through the defensive channel and opened his body to guide it into the side netting to get his side level.

Beineón O’Brien Whitmarsh came close to turning the game in its head for Cobh with seven minutes to play but his shot was just wide of Tuta’s goalpost.

Ryan Kelliher had a chance to get his second on the night as a ball in from the left side of the box reached the number nine but unfortunately, he put the effort straight at Darragh Burke.

A game of two halves in terms of entertainment and the ninety-four minutes of play ended in a 1-1 draw.

Kerry showing great signs of improvement week by week and coming and the right time as they face Finn Harps in Ballybofey next Friday night.

KERRY FC TEAM: 1. ANTONIO TUTA, 15, KEVIN WILLIAMS, 18. SAM ALADESANUSI, 5.  ANDY SPAIN (C), 3. SEAN O’CONNELL, 21. DAIRE MCCARTHY, 15. STEVEN HEALY, 7. SEAN MCGRATH, 12. KENNEDY AMECHI, 9. RYAN KELLIHER (GOAL `70), 11. DANIEL OKWUTE.

SUBS: AARON O’SULLIVAN, ETHAN KOS, RONAN TEAHAN, CIAN BROSNAN, FINN BARRETT, GRAHAM O’REILLY, VICTOR UDEZE, OISIN BREEN, FERDIA O’BRIEN.

COBH RAMBLERS TEAM: 1. DARRAGH BURKE, 3. CIAN BROWNE, 5. BRENDAN FRAHILL, 6. DEAN LARKIN, 9. MATTHEW MCKEVITT, 10. JACK LARKIN, 11. JAMES O’LEARY (GOAL `75), 12. NOLAN EVANS, 16. DAVID BOSNJAK, 28. DALE HOLLAND, 39. JASON ABBOTT (C).

SUBS: CATHAL O’HANLON, JUSTIN EGUAIBOR, BEINEON O’BRIEN WHITMARSH, LIAM KERVICK, DAN MCKAY, ALESSANDRO DESANCTIS, CHARLIE O’BRIEN, DAVID EGUAIBOR, DAN RYAN.

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Beauty&Fashion, Lifestyle, News

PHOTOS: Fun And Fashion At Down Syndrome Kerry Event In The Rose Hotel

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On the catwalk at the Down Syndrome Kerry Re-New Fashion Show at The Rose Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean

WITH tickets sold out well in advance, the Down Syndrome Kerry ‘Re-New Fashion Show’ was an enormous success and a fantastic night of fun at The Rose Hotel on Friday night.

Attended by around 250 people, it provided a showcase of the amazing fashion on offer from the 321 Shop.

After a drinks reception on entry, Margaret Kissane of Connect Publications proved a wonderful host and introduced Lauren Glennon from Ballyheigue who thrilled the crowd with her wonderful singing to begin the event.

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After introducing the head judges —renowned fashion designer Don O’Neill, Paul Scanlon, Carmel Roche, and beauty expert Mary O’Donnell — it was then the turn of young models to strut their stuff on the catwalk with the crowd cheering them on.

Fiona Horgan, Geraldine O’Regan, Carmel Russell, Joe O’Brien also lent their creative genius to the occasion, while the other talented models taking part included Grainne O’Rourke, Liam Purcell, Sinead Fitzgerald, Dale O Carroll, Mary Purcell, Stephen Roche, Kevin Ross of Balloons Le Gra, Ann Marie Ladden, Noel Ryan, Kate McNamara, Siobhan Looney, and Brendan Fuller of Radio Kerry.

It was a hugely enjoyable night for all with much needed funds raised for Down Syndrome Kerry. Scroll down for photos…

Clíona and Kay Healy with Miriam McAuliffe at the Down Syndrome Kerry Re-New Fashion Show at The Rose Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
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The judges Don O’Neill, Carmel Roche, Mary O’Donnell and Paul Scanlon at the Down Syndrome Kerry Re-New Fashion Show at The Rose Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
Marion O’Connor, Eleanor Stack, Mary Cotter and Bríd Cotter at the Down Syndrome Kerry Re-New Fashion Show at The Rose Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
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In front; Conor O’Brien, Joseph O’Brien and Anne O’Brien. At back; Sarah Williams O’Brien and Kay Williams at the Down Syndrome Kerry Re-New Fashion Show at The Rose Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
Donal O’Neill, Aoife Mahony and Deirdre Mahony at the Down Syndrome Kerry Re-New Fashion Show at The Rose Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Kevin Donovan, Jade Donovan, Lucy Moriarty and Margaret Donovan at the Down Syndrome Kerry Re-New Fashion Show at The Rose Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
Aaron Buckley, Lucy Dillon, Katie Dillon and Shane Hegarty at the Down Syndrome Kerry Re-New Fashion Show at The Rose Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Kim, Jean and Ina Foran at the Down Syndrome Kerry Re-New Fashion Show at The Rose Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
Rachel Fitzgerald and Grace O’Donnell at the Down Syndrome Kerry Re-New Fashion Show at The Rose Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Margaret Kissane, Mary O’Sullivan, Deirdre Sheehan and Bridie Courtney at the Down Syndrome Kerry Re-New Fashion Show at The Rose Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
Mary Ashe, Kathleen Coffey and Breda Costello at the Down Syndrome Kerry Re-New Fashion Show at The Rose Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Andrew Sheehy with Seoidín and Róisín Healy at the Down Syndrome Kerry Re-New Fashion Show at The Rose Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
Kevin Ross, Ann Marie Ladden and Stephen Stack at the Down Syndrome Kerry Re-New Fashion Show at The Rose Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Mary O’Sullivan and Aisling Buckley at the Down Syndrome Kerry Re-New Fashion Show at The Rose Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
John, Francesca and Peggy O’Connor at the Down Syndrome Kerry Re-New Fashion Show at The Rose Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Phil McSweeney, Michelle Enright and Sophie Casey at the Down Syndrome Kerry Re-New Fashion Show at The Rose Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
On the catwalk at the Down Syndrome Kerry Re-New Fashion Show at The Rose Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
On the catwalk at the Down Syndrome Kerry Re-New Fashion Show at The Rose Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
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On the catwalk at the Down Syndrome Kerry Re-New Fashion Show at The Rose Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
On the catwalk at the Down Syndrome Kerry Re-New Fashion Show at The Rose Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
On the catwalk at the Down Syndrome Kerry Re-New Fashion Show at The Rose Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
On the catwalk at the Down Syndrome Kerry Re-New Fashion Show at The Rose Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
Mary O’Donnell and Paul Scanlon at the Down Syndrome Kerry Re-New Fashion Show at The Rose Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
Don O’Neill and Carmel Roche at the Down Syndrome Kerry Re-New Fashion Show at The Rose Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean
Singer Lauren Glennon at the Down Syndrome Kerry Re-New Fashion Show at The Rose Hotel on Friday night. Photo by Dermot Crean

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News, SCHOOLS

PHOTOS: Listellick And Holy Family Sixth Class Pupils Enjoy Confirmation Day

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Croiagh Mullen with Rory, Conagh, Cashla, and Damien Mullen at the Listellick NS Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean

THURSDAY saw two more Confirmation ceremonies take place at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church in Tralee.

In the morning it was the turn of 29 sixth class pupils from Listellick NS to receive the sacrament from Bishop of Kerry Ray Browne.

The Bishop stayed on for the afternoon ceremony which saw 25 pupils from Holy Family arrive in the church, while pupils from CBS The Green and Coláiste Gleann Lí were also confirmed on the day. Scroll down for photos…

Evan O’Sullivan with Kenneth and Nicholas O’Sullivan and Eileen McSweeney at the Holy Family NS Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Tadhg Lawlor with Ciara O’Keeffe, Rachel Lawlor and Jack Lawlor at the Holy Family NS Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Zach O’Connor with Aisling, Rhys, Luke and Kieran O’Connor at the Listellick NS Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Laura Wawryniuk and family at the Listellick NS Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Darragh Sheehan with Pat, Almha, Sadhbh and Juliana Sheehan at the Listellick NS Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Aaron O’Sullivan and family at the Holy Family NS Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Evan Griffin with Trish and Tony Griffin at the Holy Family NS Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Scarlett Bees with Marian Fitzgerald, Laura Bees, Chris Bees and Samantha Fitzgerald at the Listellick NS Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Sinead Spring with Carmel and Ciara Spring at the Listellick NS Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Luke Madichie with Chris McGowan, Lauren Pitman and Obi Madichie at the Holy Family NS Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Aisling and Alanna O’Mahony with Rosaleen, Cillian and Paul O’Mahony at the Listellick NS Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Harry Eggleston with John, Jack and Yvonne at the Listellick NS Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Karen O’Brien with Mike, Eilish and Sarah Jane O’Brien at the Listellick NS Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Jay Howard McLarnon, with Dawn McLarnon, Tracy Howard and Aaron McLarnon at the Listellick NS Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Nathan McHugh, with Paul, Dylan, Carol and Ryan McHugh at the Listellick NS Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Meadow Carroll with Sabina and Faylin Carroll at the Listellick NS Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Holy Family sixth class pupils with Principal Maria O’Regan, Deacon Sean Murphy, Bishop of Kerry Ray Browne, Fr Amos and Ms Dempsey and Mr Moloney at the Holy Family NS Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Pupils from CBS The Green, Coláiste Gleann Lí and Tralee Educatate Together on their Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
The Listellick sixth class pupils with teachers Ms Flynn and Ms Dwyer, Principal Annette Dineen, Deacon Sean Murphy, Fr Amos and Bishop of Kerry Ray Browne at the Listellick NS Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Thursday. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Business/Property, News, SCHOOLS

CBS Tralee Students Win Senior Category At Kerry Final Of Student Enterprise Awards

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CBS The Green students Olivier Lata and Stephen Turner with their prize.

STUDENTS from CBS The Green won a top prize at the County Final of the Kerry County Council Annual Student Enterprise Awards held on Friday at MTU Tralee.

The Boot Clinic, a company was set up by Oliver Lata and Stephen Turner, which restores old football boots, won the Senior Category.

Prizes were awarded at Junior, Intermediate and Senior level. The winners of the County Student Enterprise Awards in all categories will go forward to the National Finals to be held in Mullingar on 9 May 2024. The Student Enterprise Awards bring a taste of real life business to the classroom.

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Outstanding participation levels saw 25 mini-businesses being set up by over 12 second level school students involved in the competition.

The competition promotes business idea development, structure, sourcing of finance, marketing/sales and the presentation of a formal business plan.

The students progressed through the establishment of a mini company which trades over a period of months.

An exciting and rewarding programme, students get to experience the realities of entrepreneurship from developing a business idea to producing a product, researching the market, promoting the business, managing the books and generating profits.

The winners of the Intermediate Category were Léine Lúfar, shirts with magnetic buttons from Castleisland Community College. This company was set up by Ellie Horgan, Emma Horgan and Blaithin Rahilly.

The Junior level winner was Carry Camán, a hi – vis hurley and sliotar holder, from Presentation Secondary School Castleisland. This company was the brainchild of Marguerite Herlihy, Seána Walsh, Clodagh Buckley and Lucey Matassa.

Other prizes were awarded for Best Stand, Innovation Award, Best Business Plan, Environmental Awareness, Duaiseanna Gaeilge and Social Enterprise.

Edel O’Connor from Mean Scoil Nua An Leith-truigh won the coveted award for Entrepreneurial Educator of the Year and Pobail Scoil Corca Dhuibhne won the Best School award.

Tomás Hayes, Head of Local Enterprise Office said; “I am pleased to see the level of innovation, resourcefulness, planning and development of all 25 projects in this year’s awards. This is a real-life exercise. It involves idea generation and actual trading. Profits are generated and finance is secured. It is a taste of business and all the issues involved from finding the right idea, funding the business, collecting the money, and building the team. I must commend the teachers for their efforts and the mentors for their support. The judges had a very difficult task!”

Margaret Murphy, Kerry Programme Coordinator said; “This was a very strong programme in 2024 requiring extensive work by teachers, mentors, and staff. The results are evident with three category winners which will be taking part in The National Final in Mullingar on 9 May 2024. We hope that we can win another award for Kerry following our great success in 2023.”

News, SCHOOLS

Kerry ETB School Learners Shine At National Event

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Shauna O’Keefe, Kerry ETB Alumni Nominee Brian Votta, and Bright Minds App Cofounder David Peskett celebrate success as Kerry Education and Training Board ignites dreams for learners at an ETB Week flagship national event in Thomond Park. Photo: Brian Arthur

KERRY ETB learners attended at a special event in Thomond Park on Thursday which honoured ETB Alumni and award ETB Bursaries.

Part of ETB Week, it was a showcase of achievements and a testament to Kerry ETB’s unwavering dedication to shaping the education and training in Kerry and nationwide.

Through a series of events this week, ranging from live radio shows to national awards ceremonies, Kerry ETB highlighted the transformative impact it has on individuals’ lives and the wider community.

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Brian Votta, an alumni nominee, was honoured at the national event for his journey from Kerry ETB to University College Cork.

Brian said; “Only by studying in Kerry College and achieving a major award was I offered a place on this programme.”

Shauna O’Keeffe of Castleisland Community College was winner of the Media and Communications Bursary.

Shauna’s innovative app, “Bright Minds,” that she developed with her friend and fellow student David Peskett aims to tackle classroom anxiety through a mobile application.

Shauna O’Keeffe’s enthusiastic call to action resonates with the spirit of innovation and collaboration fostered by Kerry ETB: “Let’s keep pushing forward and making a difference together!”

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News

Know Your Rights: All You Need To Know About Jury Duty

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Know Your Rights has been compiled by Kerry Citizens Information Service which provides a free and confidential service to the public… 

Jury service is when you are instructed to attend court with other members of the public, so the court can select people to sit on juries for upcoming court cases.

Even though you are called for jury service, you may not actually serve on a jury. If you are selected to serve on a jury, you and the other jurors will hear the evidence in the case, and then decide if the accused person is guilty of an offence.

You have an obligation to attend for jury service if you are called to do so. You will be contacted by summons of the County Registrar, and the summons will state that you are obliged to attend for jury service on a particular date.

Who is eligible for jury service?

If you are an Irish citizen aged 18 and over, and are on the Register of Electors you are eligible for jury service, unless you:

• Are involved in any way with the administration of justice. This includes judges, former judges, the President, the Attorney General, the Director of Public Prosecutions, members of the Gardaí and defence forces, prison officers, practising barristers, solicitors, court officers such as registrars, and personnel in government departments involved in matters of justice or the courts.

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• Have, or had, a mental illness or mental disability and because of this are staying in a hospital or similar institution, or regularly attend treatment with a medical practitioner

• Are unable to read or have a long-term impairment that means it is not practical for you to serve on a jury

The rules about eligibility for jury service in Ireland are set down in the Juries Act 1976 as amended by the Civil Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2008.

Who is disqualified from jury service?

You are disqualified from jury service if you:

• Have been convicted of a serious offence in Ireland
• Have ever been sentenced to five years or more in prison
• Have been sentenced to three months or more in prison in the last ten years
• Are living in Ireland but are not an Irish citizen.

Who has a right to be excused from jury service?

You have the right to be excused from jury service if you:

• Are aged 65 or over
• Are a member of either House of the Oireachtas, a member of the Council of State, the Comptroller and Auditor General, a Clerk of Dáil Éireann or Seanad Éireann, in Holy Orders, a minister of any religious denomination or community, a member of a monastery or convent, an aircraft pilot, a full-time student or a ship’s master
• Provide an important community service, such as a practising doctor, nurse, midwife, dentist, vet or chemist
• Have served on a jury in the last three years, or have been excused by a judge for a certain amount of time after a previous period of jury service

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In some cases, people with the following jobs can be excused, however in these cases you must provide certification that your role cannot be postponed or reasonably performed by another person:

• Member of staff of either House of the Oireachtas
• Head of a government department
• Civil servant
• Chief executive officer or employee of a local authority
• Health Service Executive (HSE) employee
• Harbour authority employee
• School teacher
• University lecturer

Other situations when you can be excused from jury service

You can also be excused from jury service in other situations, for example:

• The County Registrar or the trial judge can excuse you if they are satisfied that there is ‘good reason’ to do so

• At the end of a case of ‘an exceptionally exacting nature’, the trial judge can excuse the jury from jury service for as long as they consider suitable

What happens if I don’t attend for jury service?

Under the Juries Act 1976, you can be fined for:

• Failing to attend for jury service without a reasonable excuse
• Being unavailable when called to serve as a juror
• Being unfit for service by reason of drink or drugs

You can also be fined for other offences in relation to jury service, including:

• Making (or causing to be made) any false representations
• Serving on a jury knowing you are ineligible or disqualified
• Giving false or misleading answers to the judge about your qualification for jury service
• Making (or causing to be made) any false representations about a person summoned as a juror so they don’t have to do jury service

How is a jury selected?

Jurors are contacted by summons of the County Registrar. You must reply to the jury summons. You can do this online by visiting jury.courts.ie or by using the QR code on the summons.

You can also reply by post using the form and pre-paid envelope provided. If you have a right to be excused from jury service, you must state this when you respond to the summons.

If you want to be excused for another reason (such as illness), you must state that reason when you reply to the summons and enclose any certificates or documents in support of your application. The County Registrar will decide if you can be excused, or not.

Is there a payment for jury service?

You are not paid for jury service and travelling expenses are not allowed. If you are actually serving as a juror, lunch will be provided on the day or days of the trial.

If you are self-employed and work alone and your attendance at jury service means you cannot earn a living, you may qualify to be excused from jury service. You should contact the jury office of the court for more information.

If you are signing on for a Jobseeker’s payment you will continue to be paid, but you should advise your local social welfare office that you have been called for jury service.

What happens if I am employed?

If you are in employment, your employer must let you attend jury service. Time spent on jury service should be treated as if the employee were actually employed.

In other words, if you are in employment and are attending for jury service, you are entitled to be paid while you are away from work.

If you have a contract of employment, for example, (temporary workers or contract workers) you are entitled to be paid by your employer while you are on jury service.

There should also be no loss of any other employment rights while you serve on a jury. You can request a certificate from the jury office to confirm your attendance at jury service.

If you feel your employment rights have been infringed or you have lost employment rights while serving on a jury, you can make a complaint to the Workplace Relations Commission using the online complaint form available on workplacerelations.ie. You can contact your local CIC for information.

• For anyone needing information, advice or have an advocacy issue, you can call a member of the local Citizens Information team in Kerry on 0818 07 7860, they will be happy to assist and make an appointment if necessary.

The offices are staffed from Monday to Friday from 10am to 4pm.  Alternatively you can email on tralee@citinfo.ie or log on to www.citizensinformation.ie for further information.

Entertainment

Finnegan On Films: Comedy, Drama And Action On The Box

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Our movie guy, James Finnegan, says there are lots of literary adaptations on the box today…

At the end of a week where we had one of the most enjoyable Oscar ceremonies of recent times —  particularly notable for the multiple Irish successes and achievements — it was also the culmination for all the Oppenheimer’s hopes and aspirations.

Robert Downey Jr got some rather tasteless jibes at his well recorded missteps in a long career from the host, and frankly Dolittle (Saturday 6.35pm RTE1) does get caught between a number of styles that don’t quite gel, but still has the charm of a story about a man who can talk to the animals.

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Dr John Dolittle (Downey Jr) is a Welsh vet with the aforementioned talent.  When his wife dies tragically at sea, he retreats from society to tend to the animals rather than deal with humans.  However, he gets drawn into a mission to save the life of Queen Victoria.

Also starring Michael Sheen and Antonio Banderras in live action roles, and Emma Thompson, Rami Malek, Octavia Spenser, Ralph Fiennes among the vocal talent giving voice to a wide variety of animals, it is a decent alternative to the rugby.

Hugh Grant stars in About A Boy (Saturday 9.30pm TG4).  He plays a wealthy, self centred womaniser who pretends to be a single dad to meet women.

However, his life is changed when he is forcibly befriended by a lonely youngster played by Nicholas Hoult (bearing in mind that this is a 2002 film).

This adaptation of Nick Hornby’s novel also stars Toni Collette, Rachel Weisz and Victoria Smurfit.

Gerard Butler returns for the action thriller Angel Has Fallen (Saturday 10.30pm RTE2) as US Secret Service Agent Mike Banning.

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This time Banning is on the run himself, trying to clear his name after he is framed for an assignation attempt on the President.

He is being hunted down by his own agency and the FBI, while trying to uncover the real threat that has set their sights on attacking Air Force One.

This also stars Morgan Freeman as President Trumbull, Jada Pinkett Smith, Lance Reddick, Tim Blake Nelson, Nick Nolte, Danny Huston and Piper Perabo, all of whom are suitably earnest.

Based on the short stories of Kevin Barry, Dark Lies the Island (Sunday 12.10am RTE1) is a wonderfully dark comedy set in a familiar small North West Irish town setting over the course of an eventful week.

Daddy Mannion (Pat Shortt) is boss of Dromord town, owner of everything from the corner shop to the undertakers.  He is married to Sarah (Charlie Murphy), the former girlfriend of his son, Doggy (Peter Coonan) who is also sought after by his other son, Martin (Moe Dunford)

Throw in a cursed lake, and a very strange outsider who buys the chip shop, played with remarkable stillness by Tommy Tiernan, and you have a weird cocktail of dark atmosphere and characters that is almost Shakespearian in tone. Enjoy!

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GAA, Sport

Here’s The Kerry Team To Face Roscommon On Sunday

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KERRY are back in Allianz National Football League action this Sunday with an away game to Roscommon.

There’s a lot to play for for both teams so it should be an interesting afternoon.

The throw in time at Dr Hyde Park in Roscommon is 1.45pm and will be screened live on TG4. Here’s the team captained by Paudie Clifford…

1. Shane Ryan (Rathmore)

2. Graham O’Sullivan (Dromid Pearses)

3. Jason Foley (Ballydonoghue)

4. Paul Murphy (Rathmore)

5. Sean O’Brien (Lios an Phúca)

6. Tadhg Morley (Kenmare)

7. Gavin White (Dr Crokes)

8. Barry Dan O’Sullivan (Dingle)

9. Joe O’Connor (Austin Stacks)

10. Adrian Spillane (Templenoe)

11. Paudie Clifford (Fossa)

12. Dara Moynihan (Spa)

13. David Clifford (Fossa)

14. Darragh Roche (Glenflesk)

15. Seán O’Shea (Kenmare Shamrocks)

Subs

Seán Coffey (Beaufort)

Dylan Casey (Austin Stacks)

Stephen O’Brien (Kenmare)

Killian Spillane (Templenoe)

Armin Heinrich (Austin Stacks)

Paul Geaney (Dingle)

Damien Bourke (Na Gaeil)

Keith Evans (Cill)

Mike Breen (Lios an Phuca)

Ronan Buckley (Lios a Troi)

Paudie O’Leary (Gniomh Go Leith

Joey Nagle (Austin Stacks)

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News

A Kerry Prize Bond Holder Has Won €50,000

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THIS week’s Prize Bond Star Prize of €50,000 goes to lucky Prize Bond number JS291125 held in Kerry.

The lucky bond was purchased in 2008. There were over 9,282 prizes awarded in this week’s Prize Bond Draw, amounting to over €773,075.

In addition to a €500,000 prize awarded on the last weekly draw of every calendar month, there are weekly draws where the top prize is €50,000. Other cash prizes awarded each week include 20 of €1,000 and 20 of €500.

Prize Bond holders can check draw results online at www.StateSavings.ie. The main winning numbers are also available in most Post Offices.

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News, SCHOOLS

Sponsored: Moyderwell Mercy Primary School — Your Child’s Home Away From Home

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By Principal Pat Neenan

Moyderwell Mercy Primary School, Tralee offers a friendly, welcoming atmosphere where children feel happy and secure in a family-like environment.

A highly motivated and dedicated staff work diligently as a team to nurture the children and foster a willingness to learn.

Conveniently located in Tralee Town Centre, the school is within easy reach of many of the resources Tralee has to offer including the Town Library, Tralee Town Park, Kerry County Museum, Siamsa Tíre and Tralee Bay Wetlands. We take full advantage of these resources to provide the broadest possible education to our students.

With 400 students enrolled, we cater for both boys and girls from Junior Infants to Sixth Class. We currently have a staff of 30 teachers and 10 classroom assistants who cater for the ever changing needs of our students.

Through our vibrant Student Council we ensure our pupils’ voices are listened to and Moyderwell Mercy is very much a student-led environment.

Excellent Extra-Curricular Programmes/Approaches for our pupils:

• Maths Recovery

• Reading Recovery

• STAR Assessed Renaissance Accelerated Reading Programme with MyOn Digital Library within the individual’s Zone of Proximal Development

• Incredible Years Positive Behaviour and Zones of Emotional Regulation Training

• Friends for Life Anxiety Prevention and Resilience Building

Innovative Extra Curricular Activities:

• A highlight of your child’s time in Moyderwell will be the opportunity to exhibit at the RDS Primary Science Fair in conjunction with the BT Young Scientist of the Year, and Primary Science Excellence Awards.

• Take part in School Choir, Christmas Concerts, BLAST (Bringing Live Arts to Students and Teachers)

• Enjoy a wide range of sporting activities including football, hurling, athletics, swimming, spike ball and tag rugby.

• Experience Cycle-Right and Safer Routes to School Community Development

• Avail of Kinder Music, Violin, Cello and Ukulele tuition with professional tutors in conjunction with Music Generation

• Be part of our Green School Programme and help maintain our School Garden

Facilities / Provisions:

• Free hot school lunches (15 choices per day)

• Organised courses/classes for parents – cookery, craft etc.

• Teacher-supervised Homework Club for senior pupils

• Full sized Sports Hall with state of the art equipment

• Modern Classrooms with Interactive Digital Learning Facilities

• Little House Montessori & Afterschool on site

• Department approval for multi-million euro extension. Expected delivery for Sept 27’.

• Regular access to IPads & Chromebooks

• Home School Community Liaison Coordinator

• Student Council and Active School Committee

Visit www.moyderwellmercy.ie to enrol your child in Moyderwell Mercy today and let us be your child’s home away from home. — Pat Neenan, School Principal. 

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Sport

Here’s The Kerry Side To Face Meath On Sunday

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KERRY will be hoping to bounce back to winning ways this Sunday when they face Meath in Round 6 of the Lidl Ladies National Football League Division 1.

The Royal County host the ladies for a 3pm throw-in time in Donaghmore, Ashbourne. Tickets for the game can be purchased by clicking here.

The team captained by Niamh Carmody is as follows;

1. Ciara Butler  – Castlegregory

2. Bríd O’Connor – Na Gaeil

3. Eilis Lynch — Castleisland Desmonds

4. Ciara Murphy – MKL Gaels

5. Aishling O’Connell – Scartaglin

6. Kayleigh Cronin – Dr Crokes

7. Ciara McCarthy – Abbeydorney

8. Mary O’Connell – Na Gaeil

9. Anna Galvin – Southern Gaels

10. Niamh Carmody – Finuge St Senans (C)

11. Danielle O’Leary — Rathmore

12. Lorraine Scanlon — Castleisland Desmonds

13. Hannah O’Donoghue – Beaufort

14. Emma Dineen – Glenflesk

15. Louise Ní Mhuircheartaigh – Corca Dhuibhne

Subs

Mary Ellen Bolger – Southern Gaels
Deirdre Kearney  – Na Gaeil
Katie Brosnan – Firies

Amy Harrington – Inbhear Scéine Gaels

Niamh Ní Chonchúir – Corca Dhuibhne

Faye O’Donoghue – Beaufort

Cáit Lynch – Castleisland Desmonds

Eilís Lynch – Castleisland Desmonds

Jess Gill – Southern Gaels
Aoife Dillane – Austin Stacks
Eilís O’Connor – Na Gaeil
Siobhán Burns – Dr Crokes
Róisín Smith – Cromane
Jadyn Lucey — Na Gaeil
Kate O’Sullivan – Daingean Uí Chúis
Keri Ann Hanrahan – Killarney Legion

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News, SCHOOLS

PHOTOS: Great Turnout For Mercy Mounthawk Quiz Fundraiser

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Grainne Kirby, Audrey Lane, Una O’Mahony and Claire Murphy at the Mercy Mounthawk quiz night. Photo by Dermot Crean

THERE was a massive turnout at Mercy Mounthawk last night as the school held a table quiz fundraiser to help towards the costs associated with the success of the sports teams.

The Centenary Hall was full to capacity for the quiz where participants answered questions on music, sport, local affairs and school related topics.

There’s an air of anticipation around the school with the football team about to contest the Hogan Cup against Omagh CBS on Saturday in Croke Park.

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“It has been a tremendous time and people realise how important and historic an occasion it is for the school,” said Principal John O’Roarke, who greeted people last night at the entrance to the school.

“There’s a great sense of energy and enthusiasm and with several buses and the train booked out they”ll have great support. We’ve been bowled over by the level of support in the community and the various clubs.”

“People have responded generously to our appeal and we’re almost at the target in our gofundme page,” added Principal O’Roarke.

In fact, as of this morning, over €20,000 has been raised to support the sports teams, a remarkable effort by the school community. The Hogan Cup Final throws in at 3pm on Saturday and will be screened live on TG4. Best of luck to the lads! Scroll down for photos…

Cathal Foley, Sorcha Foley, Saoirse McCarthy and Joanne Foley at the Mercy Mounthawk quiz night. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Noah Townsend, Holly Leane and Kate Collins at the Mercy Mounthawk quiz night. Photo by Dermot Crean
Catriona, Ronan, David and Aoife Hobbert at the Mercy Mounthawk quiz night. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Katie Nagle, Stella O’Shea, Laura Rogers, Róisín Riordan and Heather Moran at the Mercy Mounthawk quiz night. Photo by Dermot Crean
John Raggett, Mike Moloney and Maurice Kelly at the Mercy Mounthawk quiz night. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Emma Nolan, Fionnuala Casey, David Smith and Tadhg O’Sullivan at the Mercy Mounthawk quiz night. Photo by Dermot Crean
Joanne Locke, Susan Brosnan and Cathal Carr in front of the many spot prizes up for grabs at the Mercy Mounthawk quiz night. Photo by Dermot Crean
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The large crowd at the Mercy Mounthawk quiz night. Photo by Dermot Crean

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News

Council To Receive Almost €4m Under Community Recognition Fund

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KERRY County Council is to receive €3,946,095 in funding under the Community Recognition Fund 2024.

The Community Recognition Fund was first introduced last year to recognise the huge efforts made by communities in welcoming and supporting people coming to Ireland.

Through the 2023 allocation, funding of €50 million was approved for some 900 projects in supporting cities, towns and villages nationwide that have welcomed people from Ukraine and other countries.

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Under today’s announcement, a further €50 million is being provided again to deliver projects over 2024 and 2025.

Local authorities, in collaboration with communities, will be funded to develop projects that will deliver long term benefits to those living in the areas selected.

Projects that will be funded include:

• Development or refurbishment of community or cultural facilities including play areas, walkways, parks, community/sensory gardens, allotments, and recreational areas;

• Development or refurbishment of local club and sports facilities;

• Enhancement to school/parish facilities which are open to use by all of the community after school hours;

• Purchase of equipment for local clubs, festivals, community events and organisations

• Transport infrastructure such as community vehicles

Welcoming the announcement, Minister for Education and Kerry Fianna Fáil TD, Norma Foley said: “The Community Recognition Fund will give towns and villages across Kerry an opportunity to create a more inclusive and enjoyable environment for all. This is a very significant funding announcement by Government with over €3.9m being allocated to Kerry County Council and it builds on the €4. 4 million allocated to the county in 2023. By investing in facilities and organisations that facilitate integration and community participation, we are building stronger communities that embrace diversity while promoting social cohesion.”

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Health&Fitness, Lifestyle, News

Get Set For The Fenit Coastal Cycle Next Week

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THERE’S just over a week to go until the annual Fenit Coastal Cycle. The event is a great way to get out in the spring air and enjoy the wonderful scenery in the area.

The cycle takes place from St. Brendan’s National School Fenit on Saturday, March 23 at 10am. There are two routes: 25km and 60km.

Both routes finish back at the starting point in Fenit. Rolling start from 10am, registration from 8am.

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All cyclists will be welcomed into the school after for well earned rest, tea and a sandwich. This year’s charities to benefit are Kerry Hospice Foundation & Kerry Cancer Support Group.

Children are welcome for a shorter 1k and 10k cycle along the greenway. It’s a great family day out so to register for the event click here to go to the eventbrite page.

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News

Tralee Festivals And Organisations Benefit From Community Support Fund

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Féile Thrá Lí will receive €6,500 from the Community Support Fund.

KERRY County Council has announced details of the allocation of €750,000 in funding support for community groups and projects across the county under the Community Support Fund for 2024.

Tralee festivals and organisations in Tralee to receive funding include the Féile Thrá Lí (€6,500) Tralee Food Festival (€4,000) and Friends of Able (€6,000). See the full Tralee MD list below.

A total of 210 groups and projects received grant aid worth €335,000 this year while a proportion of the fund, totalling €415,000 is being retained to leverage funding from other funding streams for strategic projects at Municipal District level.

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Councillors in the five Municipal Districts met during the past week to decide on the allocations and unanimously welcomed the provision of support to the recipients.

The Councillors congratulated all the community groups and acknowledged the tremendous voluntary work that they do.

Since 2020, over €40 million has been leveraged from other national grant sources as a result of the strategic allocation of resources under the Community Support Fund.

The fund, which is in its tenth year, has now supported 2,184 projects since 2015 to the value of €7m.  As was the case in previous years, some of the Community Support Fund will be used this year to target strategic projects in the five municipal districts and to co-fund projects which are in receipt of grants from other sources.

The funds allocated to organisations in the Tralee Municipal District are as follows…

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News

Bons Secours Staff Raise Thousands Of Euro For Irish Heart Foundation

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The staff of the Bon Secure Hospital Tralee who took part in the Run 100 challenge for the Irish Heath Foundation and presented the cheque in the Bon Secours Tralee on Wednesday. Seated l to r: Julie Deane, Karen Joy, Michelle Greaney, Ann Riardon (Irish Heart Foundation) and Kathleen Whelan. Standing l to r: Andrea O’Donoghue, Mary Harmon, Marie Flynn, Jillian Daly, Dereck Griffin, Siobhan Madigan, Mary Kearney, Breda Moriarty and Liz Fenton. Photo By : © Eye Focus LTD

THE staff at Bon Secours Hospital Tralee hospital walked, ran, cycled, and rowed 4,135 miles in the month of February, all in aid of The Irish Heart Foundation.

It was all part of the Run 100 Challenge run by the IHF and the Bons staff raised €4,746.12 for the organisation.

On Wednesday, their achievements were celebrated with a well-deserved medal presentation ceremony at the hospital with a cheque also presented to the Irish Heart Foundation.

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News

Volunteers Wanted For Annual County Clean Up

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County Clean Up will take place across the county on Saturday, 6th April.  Pictured at the launch are Breda Moriarty, Environmental Awareness Officer and Moira Murrell, Chief Executive, Kerry County Council with Cllr. Jim Finucane, Mayor of Kerry and Tadgh Healy, KWD. Photo: Pauline Dennigan

THE 12th annual County Clean Up will take place across the county on Saturday, April 6 and voluntary organisations and individuals across Kerry are invited to get involved in one of the biggest community events of the year in the county.

The County Clean-Up takes place with the support of KWD Recycling and Kerry County Council and over the past decade, hundreds of tonnes of rubbish have been collected along Kerry roads by thousands of volunteers.

The Cathaoirleach of Kerry County Council, Cllr Jim Finucane urged everyone to participate in the effort to clear up towns, villages and the countryside across Kerry.

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“The tremendous effort of volunteers over the past twelve years has made a major contribution to keeping Kerry litter-free. The County Clean Up greatly complements the work which Kerry County Council does all year round to promote environmental awareness and maintain our wonderful landscape.

“Registration is now open at www.countycleanup.com and I hope that local communities will participate in large numbers,” he said.

Noel O’Reilly from KWD said: ‘KWD Recycling is proud to be involved in the County Clean Up which is now in its 12th year. It is a very important day that has made a huge difference on the roads of Kerry and west Cork with thousands of people showing great community spirit.’

Environmental Awareness Officer at Kerry County Council, Breda Moriarty said: ‘The amazing and diligent work of many community groups and individuals for the County Clean Up is admirable. Everyone coming together to keep Kerry clean and our roads litter free for an 12th year is fantastic.’

Groups must register to ensure they receive a clean-up pack and to nominate a collection point for any litter collected.

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News

Man Arrested After Alleged Serious Assault On Woman In Tralee

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A MAN has been arrested after an alleged serious assault on a woman in Tralee this morning.

Gardaí are currently at scene of an ongoing incident that occurred at a residential property on Maine Street, Tralee on Thursday.

At approximately 9.30am, emergency services alerted Gardaí of an alleged serious assault of a woman. The woman, aged in her 20s has been taken to University Hospital Kerry to be treated for her injuries.

One male has since been arrested and is currently detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984 and at a Garda station in the Kerry Division. The scene is currently being examined and investigations are ongoing.

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News, Sport

Kerry FC Take On Cobh Ramblers At Home This Friday Night

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KERRY FC take on Cobh Ramblers this Friday night in Mounthawk Park with a 7.45pm kick0ff.

After an encouraging draw last time out, Kerry FC will be hoping to capitalise on the optimism in the camp with a good result against the Cork side.

In his pre-match press conference, Conor McCarthy gave a positive update on the injury front ahead of this one.

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No fresh injury concerns came out of the Athlone game with the full travelling squad available for selection again this week.

Jack Kavanagh is closer to a return from injury but will need to be assessed while Valerii Dolia is making good progress in his rehab from a foot injury and is getting ever closer to making his debut in the coming weeks.

Cobh Ramblers were Kerry FC’s first-ever opponents in senior League of Ireland football. Kerry hosted their Cork rivals in Mounthawk Park on the opening night of the 2023 season in front of packed-out Mounthawk Park.

“Cobh are a very good side, they’ve started the season well to be fair to them,” said Conor McCarthy.” That was a great win for them last week in Ballybofey against Finn Harps which is a tough place to go and to take home 3 points is huge. It’s going to be a difficult game, it will be close. I’d imagine it will be one or two moments that could sway the game either way and hopefully, we will be on the right side of it this week.”

To buy tickets for the game, click here.

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News, SCHOOLS

PHOTOS: Confirmation Day Arrives For Scoil Eoin Sixth Class Pupils

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Ciara Hayles with Karen, Emma and Brian Hayles at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean

THE weather gods were not smiling down on Scoil Eoin’s sixth class pupils on Wednesday as they made their way to Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church for their Confirmation Day.

Nevertheless there was great excitement among the 63 pupils from three classes receiving the sacrament on a wet Wednesday in Tralee.

The pupils were well prepared by teachers Mr Kennelly, Mr McSweeney and Ms Foley and the ceremony performed by Fr Padraig Walsh, assisted by Deacon Seán Murphy went off smoothly. Scroll down for photos…

Kyle Power and family at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Lexi Keane with Jimmy Moran, Tricia Moran, Jade Moran and Eileen Moran at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Faye O’Donoghue with Coleman, Hazel, Kieran, Carol Anne and Oran O’Donoghue and Mai Horgan with at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Shane Carey with Mary, Simon, Pa and Lucy Carey at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Jamie Lee O’Leary with Lorraine Sebestova, Lily Sebestova, Kinleigh O’Leary and Patrick Beer at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Neasa Kirby with Rohan Kirby, Julianne Prendiville, John Kirby and Shauna Kirby at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Emma Hobbert with Danny, Laura, Dylan, Daniel and Alex Hobbert at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Michaela Brosnan with mom Laura, dad Denis, brother Donnacha and grandmother Margaret Leen at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Emily Moriarty and family at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Darragh and Kayla Moriarty with Johnny, Jayden, Angelina and Alanna Moriarty at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Oliver Diggins with Donal, Brenda, Katelyn and Daniel Diggins at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Aoife Hobbert with Catriona, Ronan and David Hobbert at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Oliver Diggins with dad Donal at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Harry Maguire with Liam, Sinead and Jack Maguire at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Eve McEvoy with Preston and Maura McEvoy at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Max Rajca with Jakob, Anna and JJ Rajca at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Eimear Kenny with Olga Kenny, Aine Kenny, Eilish Cahillane, Eileen Cahillane and Deirdre Cahillane at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Lucia O’Flaherty Segade with Gerard O’Flaherty, Mar Segade, Paola Kennedy, Georgina Kennedy and April Rosa Kennedy at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Clodagh and Darragh Kennedy with Caroline and Robert Kennedy at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Ellie Marie O’Halloran with Ricky, Noah, Georgia and Grace at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Shauna Quigley and family at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Sarah McGrath with Cillian, Denise, Edgar and Dara McGrath at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Tomás Bailey Kelliher with Helen, Trevor and Janene Kelliher at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Meabh Kennedy with Tommy, Katie, Caitríona and Ruairí Kennedy at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Ava Moriarty with Dean, Yvonne and Jason Moriarty at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Aimee Farrell with Sinead Houlihan Farrell, Ava and Seán Farrell at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Jessie Griffin with John and Lorna Griffin at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Logan O’Sullivan with Darren O’Sullivan, Kately O’Sullivan, Shauna Lynch, Mairead O’Sullivan and Riain O’Sullivan at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
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Abby Conway and Conor Brosnan with Jonathan Conway, Emma Conway, Casey Enright, Sheila Conway, Jerry Brosnan and Jennifer Brosnan at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Bronagh Griffin with Sean, Aileen, Kieran, Aoibheann and Ella Griffin at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Valerie Gleasure with parents Sean and Kathleen and brothers Sam and Tom, at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Mr Kennelly’s sixth class with Deacon Sean Murphy and Fr Padraig Walsh at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Ms Foley’s sixth class with Deacon Sean Murphy and Fr Padraig Walsh at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
Mr McSweeney’s sixth class with Deacon Sean Murphy and Fr Padraig Walsh at the Scoil Eoin Balloonagh Confirmation Day at Our Lady and St Brendan’s Church on Wednesday. Photo by Dermot Crean
News, SCHOOLS

PHOTOS: Ukrainian Ambassador Visits Kerry College In Tralee

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Ukrainian Ambassador Larysa Gerasko presenting a Certificate of Appreciation for Kerry Education and Training Board to Cllr. Jim Finucane Mayor of Kerry and Chairman ETB during her visit to ETB Kerry College at Clash, Tralee on Wednesday. Photo by Michelle Coper Galvin Eye Focus LTD

THE Ukrainian Ambassador to Ireland, Gerasko Larysa, made a visit to Tralee this week.

The Ambassador met with learners and staff from across Kerry Education and Training Board (Kerry ETB).

One of the highlights of the event was a performance by the Ukrainian folk choir from Killarney, which notably included students from Kerry College. Their harmonious melodies resonated through the venue, embodying the rich cultural creativity that both Ukraine and Ireland offer.

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Kerry ETB’s Further Education and Training locations, including Kerry College have provided comprehensive support to over 3,000 Ukrainian learners, with a particular focus on English language proficiency.

Central to the gathering were the Ukrainian students from Coláiste Gleann Lí and Kerry College, who bravely shared their personal stories of integration and the positive experiences they have encountered since arriving in Kerry.

Kerry ETB has been instrumental in providing essential support and services families looking for school places for their children.

The Regional Education and Language Team within the ETB has placed Ukrainian students who have arrived in Kerry into primary and secondary schools across the county. The team has played a pivotal role in facilitating the integration of these students into the local educational system.

Ambassador Gerasko Larysa conveyed her heartfelt gratitude to the people of Kerry, especially the management and staff of Kerry ETB, for their unwavering support and hospitality towards Ukrainian nationals.

“The warmth and generosity of the Kerry community has provided our people with not just safety, but a sense of belonging,” she remarked. “We are deeply grateful for the opportunities afforded to us and the kindness shown in our time of need,” she said. Scroll down for photos…

Ukrainian Ambassador Larysa Gerasko during his visit to ETB Kerry College placing the Irish and Ukrainian onto a Willow Tree with Coláiste Gleann Lí students Vira Vonk, Bohdan Bilaesh, Danny Nedohrieieve, Amina Nawaz, Morhorgya Kravtsova and Ivan Kravchenko at the ETB Kerry College, at Clash, Tralee on Wednesday. Photo by Michelle Coper Galvin Eye Focus LTD
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Ukrainian dancer Alina Herasko performing for the Ukrainian Ambassador Larysa Gerasko during her visit to ETB Kerry College at Clash, Tralee on Wednesday. Photo by Michelle Coper Galvin Eye Focus LTD
Ukrainian Ambassador Larysa Gerasko is welcomed by Liam McGill Principal Colaiste Glean Lí, Ann O’Dwyer ETB Director of Schools, Jim Finucane Mayor of Kerry and Chairman Kerry Eduaction and Training Board, Terry O’Brien Mayor of Tralee and Chairman Colaiste Glean Lí, John Shinner Deputy Prinpal Kerry College, Carmel Kelly Deputy Principal Kerry College, Olya Marynts NSWKD, Colm McEvoy CEO and Stephen Goulding Principal Kerry College to ETB Kerry College at Clash, Tralee on Wednesday. Photo by Michelle Coper Galvin Eye Focus LTD
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Kate Haova, David and Emma Keane, Maura Burke and Brendon Beares entertaining at the reception to Ukrainian Ambassador Larysa Gerasko visit to Kerry Education Kerry College at Clash, Tralee on Wednesday. Photo by Michelle Coper Galvin Eye Focus LTD

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News

Projects Across Kerry To Share €250,000 Allocation For Works

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OVER €250,000 has been allocated for 26 project in Kerry.

An allocation of €103,379.50 is being made under the Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS) and €147,550 under the Historic Structures Fund (HSF) for the projects across the county, including Tralee (see list below).

The schemes fund a variety of repairs and renovation works to prevent deterioration, protect character, and encourage the re-use of protected structures. The schemes also provide important support for the employment of traditional craftspeople and conservation professionals.

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Welcoming the new, Minister for Education Norma Foley said: “Our built heritage is a tangible expression of our history and culture, and a distinctive and attractive element of our towns, villages and countryside.

“These funded works within Kerry will have an added economic benefit by generating employment for heritage contractors and other skilled crafts and tradespeople in the locality and I very much look forward to the works commencing apace.”

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News

Part Of Public Car Park In Fenit To Close For Eight Weeks

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KERRY County Council has advised the public that the northern section of the public car park in Fenit will be temporarily closed to the public from Thursday, March 14 for a period of eight weeks.

This is to facilitate Liebherr Container Cranes Ltd., which requires additional storage space in Fenit for a short period due to an unavoidable shipping logistics issue.

To offset this, Kerry County Council has commenced construction, earlier than planned, of a new car park in the nearby O’Sullivan’s field which was granted planning permissions in 2023, and this facility will be available for use by the public from Monday, 25 March.

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The elected members of Tralee Municipal District have been briefed on the matter and unanimously agreed with the proposals given the circumstances.

While the Council and local councillors acknowledge that there will be temporary inconvenience, they welcomed the commencement of the new car park which will substantially increase the car parking capacity for the benefit of the village ahead of the summer season.

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