News

Election 2016: Turnout At About 30 Per Cent Around Tralee Town In Mid-Afternoon

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John and Li-Juan Doyle casting their vote in Holy Family NS on Friday. Photo by Dermot Crean

VOTERS are continuing to cast their votes today in the general election and there was a healthy enough turnout in town in the mid-afternoon.

By lunchtime there was reports of a turnout of around 15% in some areas in town, but this had doubled by 3pm  in some stations we visited.

We took a quick spin around town between 3pm and 3.45pm and found the turnout was running around 30 per cent in Tralee in the four polling stations we visited.

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Marian Robbins casts her vote watched by Aisling Griffin and Damien Ginty at CBS Primary School. Photo by Dermot Crean

In Holy Family two booths we visited had a figure of just under 30%. Across the field in Scoil Eoin, Balloonagh, it was a similar story with one booth at 28% and another at 30%.

There was a bit of a difference in the three booths we enquired about at CBS Primary, with one at 27%, one at 30% and the other at 34%.

Finally on the east side of town, the average of all booths taken at 3pm in Presentation Primary showed turnout at 26%, although when we called at 3.45pm things had picked up with one of the booths at 37%.

Of course the real surge will begin after 6pm this evening, but it looks like there will be a good turnout in Tralee for Election 2016.

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Joe O’Mahony casts his vote at Scoil Eoin Balloonagh. Photo by Dermot Crean
News, Sport

Tralee Women Prepare To Take The Field Against England On Saturday

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Tralee women Ruth O’Reilly, Ciara Griffin will start on Saturday night for Ireland while Zoe Grattage (right) is on the bench.

IT’S not just Ultan Dillane  Tralee people will be looking out for on Saturday, as he is poised to jump from the bench for his debut.

The Irish women are also in action on the same night and Tralee RFC is well represented on the team with Ciara Griffin starting and Zoe Grattage in the replacements, while Galwegians player and Ballyroe native, Ruth O’Reilly, will also start.

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The good news is the Six Nations game will be shown live on RTÉ.ie, after Ireland’s clash with England, also at the home of English rugby.

The game kicks off at 7.15pm and will be streamed on the England Rugby Union YouTube site. It’s set to be some weekend and Tralee RFC is getting excited…

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Ireland: Niamh Briggs, Elise O’Byrne-White, Aine Donnelly, Sene Naoupu, Mairead Coyne, Nora Stapleton, Larissa Muldoon, Ruth O’Reilly, Cliodhna Moloney, Ailis Egan, Sophie Spence, Marie-Louise Reilly, Ciara Griffin, Claire Molloy, Paula Fitzpatrick.

Replacements: Zoe Grattage, Fiona Hayes, Fiona Reidy, Ciara Cooney, Heather O’Brien, Mary Healy, Nikki Caughey, Jackie Shiels.

Business/Property, News

Monthly Petrol Price Check…Here Are The Cheapest Places To Fill Up

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PETROL prices have dropped again over the course of the month since we last did our check.

Since mid-January, when we did our survey, petrol prices  have remained under the €1.20 mark.

But whereas before there was two or three cent difference between some stations, most in town have now settled on a price of €1.17 per litre.

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The price of crude oil combined with fluctuations in currency markets are contributing factors to the relatively low prices and to fill up your tank now costs less than it did last year when petrol prices hit a six year low nationally.

The cheapest places in town to get petrol are the Applegreen stations in Manor Village and Fairies Cross and the  Top station in Caherslee, all with a price of  €1.17.8. per litre.

Eight stations occupy the second spot with a price of €1.17.9 they are – all Esso, Inver and Topaz stations, Top Horan Centre and Texaco Blennerville.

The most expensive places to get your petrol are, Texaco in Oakpark and Amber Monavalley– €1.19.9

See full list of prices below…

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1. Applegreen, Fairies Cross – €1.17.8 (diesel €0.99.8)

Applegreen, Manor Village – €1.17.8 (diesel €0.99.8)

Top, Caherslee – €1.17.8 (diesel €0.99.8)

2. Inver, Castlemaine Road €1.17.9 (diesel €0.99.9)

Inver, Rathass – €1.17.9 (diesel €0.99.9)

Esso, North Circular Road – €1.17.9 (diesel €0.99.9)

Esso, Clash – €1.17.9 (diesel €0.99.9)

Topaz, Mounthawk – €1.17.9 (diesel €1.01.9)

Topaz, Manor West – €1.17.9 (diesel €0.99.9)

Texaco, Blennerville – €1.17.9 (diesel €0.99.9)

Top, Horan Centre – €1.17.9 (diesel €0.99.9)

3. Amber, Monavalley – €1.19.9 (diesel €1.01.9)

Texaco, Oakpark – €1.19.9 (diesel €1.06.9)

• Prices correct as of 10:30am on Friday morning.

News

PHOTOS: Scaly Friends On Show At Tralee Bay Wetlands Event

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At the Dingle Oceanword presentation in Tralee Bay Wetlands was David McCormick. Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
At the Dingle Oceanword presentation in Tralee Bay Wetlands was David McCormick of Tralee Bay Wetlands. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.

THERE were some reptilian friends on show in the Tralee Bay Wetlands on Thursday evening as a special presentation by Dingle Oceanword Aquarist,  Louise Overy.

Held in association with the Kerry Branch of the Irish Wildlife Trust, the presentation was about the sea turtle rescues and some of the cetacean strandings that occurred this year.

This was followed by a reptile encounter with some leopard geckos, bearded dragons and royal pythons available to meet the people attending.

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Those present heard that oneof the consequences of our winter storms and changing weather patterns is that they often bring unintended visitors to our shores.

Leatherback turtles are regularly found in Irish waters; unusually for a reptile they are able to tolerate our cold Atlantic waters well, and are occasionally found stranded. Much more rarely, turtles from warmer seas are brought in by storms, and there have been a number of such creatures washed up on our coastline this winter. An informative evening enjoyed by all.

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At the Dingle Oceanword presentation in Tralee Bay Wetlands were, from left: Amanda Waters and Louise Overy. Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
At the Dingle Oceanword presentation in Tralee Bay Wetlands were, from left: Amanda Waters and Louise Overy. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.
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At the Dingle Oceanword presentation in Tralee Bay Wetlands was Alex Gaudino. Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
At the Dingle Oceanword presentation in Tralee Bay Wetlands was Alex Gaudino. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.
At the Dingle Oceanword presentation in Tralee Bay Wetlands were, from left: Daniel McCarthy and Cole Hayes. Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
At the Dingle Oceanword presentation in Tralee Bay Wetlands were, from left: Daniel McCarthy and Cole Hayes. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.
At the Dingle Oceanword presentation in Tralee Bay Wetlands was Anne Marie Henderson . Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
At the Dingle Oceanword presentation in Tralee Bay Wetlands was Anne Marie Henderson . Photo by Gavin O’Connor.
At the Dingle Oceanword presentation in Tralee Bay Wetlands were, from left: Aby Lynch, Tabatha Overy, Jason Cahill, Fiona McKenna and Greta O'Rourke. Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
At the Dingle Oceanword presentation in Tralee Bay Wetlands were, from left: Abby Lynch, Tabatha Overy, Jason Cahill, Fiona McKenna and Greta O’Rourke. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.

 

Business/Property, News

Tralee Apartment One Of Three Kerry Properties Sold At Allsop Auction

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JUST three of the six Kerry properties which were to go under the hammer in Dublin yesterday, were sold at the Allsop auction in the RDS.

They were an apartment in Tralee, a house in Caherdaniel and a bungalow in Listowel.

A cottage in Banna was withdrawn prior to auction, while a bungalow in Moyvane and land in Cordal went unsold.

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Tralee Auction
An apartment in Parklands Tralee is to go under the hammer in February.

Apartment 302 The Parklands, Tralee, has a reserve not to exceed €30,000. The fourth floor one bedroom apartment was sold for €49,000.

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Listowel Auction
This Listowel house will go to auction in February.

Riverlodge The Powerline, Listowel, has a reserve not to exceed  €50,000, but the detached three bedroom house was sold for €40,000.

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The house in Caherdaniel up for auction.

A detached house at 12 An Ghleantain, Caherdaniel, had a reserve not to exceed €85,000 but the four bedroom dormer bungalow fetched an impressive €141,000.

Entertainment, News, SCHOOLS

PHOTOS: Moyderwell Pupils Premiere Their 1916 Rising Movie

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Moyderwell pupils put through their paces at Fels Point Hotel by Private Billy Guerin. Photo by Denis Griffin

THE pupils from Muinteoir Eoin’s fifth class in Moyderwell Mercy Primary, Tralee had their movie premiere of their short film about the 1916 Rebellion on Wednesday night.

Aptly named “They Fought for Freedom”, the film is based on local, national and international historical events circa 1916. A capacity crowd of parents, pupils, families and friends of Moyderwell and local historians were greatly entertained at this special event in Fels Point Hotel.

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Those gathered were amazed of the pupils’ abilities to research, record and edit such a  production using their school iPads. The project began last October where the pupils researched and wrote a script, prioritising the events that they thought were most important.

These included Roger Casements trip to Germany, the role of women in the Rebellion and the initial public reaction to the Rising. Each scene was meticulously planned by the children working in groups and dramatised in their classrooms prior to filming the scene!

The children spent many weeks collecting and creating props. Costumes were created during art class under the guidance of parent Catherine Wall.

Filming began in early November on the school grounds and surrounding environment in Tralee. Excitement and curiosity grew as many of the public stopped to ask the children about their project as they filmed the different scenes.

They realised the importance of their work and invited another parent Private Billy Guerin into school to train them in military marching!

With a great eagerness, the children moved on to the final stage of the process using their schools iPads again which entailed editing the footage, adding sound effects, choosing appropriate background music and finally voting to choose a name for their wonderful short film!

Moira Quinlan, principal of Moyderwell Mercy Primary who spoke at the Premiere in Fels Point Hotel, praised the children of 5th class along with their teacher Eoin Sayers for their commitment to the project and for their highly professional attitude throughout the process.

According to Moira; “The children showed superb enthusiasm as they performed many roles throughout the film making process and are a shining example of the many talents within the school”.

The film can be viewed on the schools Facebook Moyderwell Mercy Primary’. Further details available by emailing mercymoyderwell@eircom.net or call 066 7124403.

Scroll down for photos by Denis Griffin…

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Pupils of  Moyderwell Mercy Principal Moira Quinlan, teacher Eoin Sayers and Private Billy Guerin at  the premiere on Wednesday night.
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News

Newly Registered Voters Urged To Get To The Polling Booths

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TODAY, many Kerry people will take their first steps inside a poll booth and cast their vote for the first time.

A total of 809 people in Kerry have been added to the supplementary register in advance of tomorrow’s general election.

In response to this, The National Youth Council of Ireland (NYCI), are calling on young people to ensure they cast their vote.

“Now, the focus must turn to getting out the vote,” said James Doorley, NYCI deputy director.

“NYCI is encouraging 18 to 25 year olds in particular to make sure they make their voices heard,” added Mr Doorley.

“We’ve been working to increase the number of young people on the register for the past number of referendums and elections, and we’re delighted that the local media have been supportive of our campaign this time round.”

“We welcome this increase, and remind young people to go out and vote in the  election. It is your democratic right and a great opportunity to have your say in shaping the future of this country,” concluded Mr Doorley.

Business/Property, News

Free Seminar To Help Get People In Debt Back On Track

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logo (1)NEW Beginning are coming to Tralee to give a free seminar aimed at getting people burdened by debt back on track.

New Beginning Advisors is a Debt Management Firm specialising in mortgage and commercial debt resolution. They are a completely independent service that receives no funding from the Banks or Government.

The New Beginning/New Solutions seminars takes place on  Tuesday, March 1, at 8pm in the Fels Point Hotel.

 

It’s aimed at people who are still struggling to resolve debt many years after the crash. From individuals, to small and medium sized businesses, thousands remain caught in the ‘debt trap’.

The evening will be aimed at providing information on how to move on from your debt and what steps you can make to secure your financial recovery.

Topics covered will be:

· Securing your family home
· The new Personal Insolvency Laws
· The new Bankruptcy laws
· Dealing with the Funds
· How to refinance debt
· Your financial recovery

To attend this free seminar just email info@newbeginning.ie or call 01-5240000 to let them know.

Beauty&Fashion, Lifestyle

Zoe’s World: Celebrity Culture Is The New Religion For Some

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Zoe 1I HAVE a new theory.

Tradition in Ireland has practically faded away. Religion has been moved to the back burner in our society, and truly a lot of things have changed.

Of course, you can’t just shove such tradition out the window without replacing it with something else. We have to focus on something. Now, tragically or not, this replacement comes with our newfound obsession with celebrity culture.

I guess it only makes sense. You can look into these people’s lives as easy as you can look in on your neighbour. We’re a nosey species, and we have love the ability to keep tabs on other people. This has grown from a habit to an obsession.

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We can never know enough. We are completely consumed by it. How else would you explain the global domination of the Kardashians? Even though I could get into a whole conversation with you about how minimum their actual achievements are considering their success; I will leave that for another time.

In a way, it is a little pathetic. Our infatuation with these celebrities has truly taken over. Real issues have actually been pushed aside.

The happenings of ‘real’ people with ‘real’ issues are left only to don the pages of the newspapers (which they actually still print nowadays would you believe).

Most people, predominantly the younger generation, would be much better versed in the happenings of Taylor Swift than perhaps the movements of the candidates for the general election.

Speaking of which, people who are of age to vote are more influenced by their internet societies than by anything else.

Although I am not of the age to vote yet, embarrassing as it may sound, I would be swayed by what my celebrity idols would have to say. They have so much influence. So much power at the their fingertips. All they have to do is post about it, or instagram it.

It’s a dramatic change from people kneeling at the pulpit hanging on to the priests every word. Change in society is normal. But is this one a good one?

Yes and no. I think that people are a lot more free thinking and are given better opportunities to form their own opinions.

No, because I frankly don’t think it’s healthy. I am a willing victim of this social media world, and it is a great part of my everyday life. Celebrity culture dominates my news-feeds and dominates a large proportion of my life.

The fact of the matter is that people would rather be sucked into the fluffy and frivolous world of celebrity than be faced with the harsh reality of real life.

Can you blame them? Can you blame yourself for wanting to know what Kendall Jenner ate for breakfast rather than hearing the harsh realities of your surroundings.

I certainly don’t.

Tradition and religion has been replaced by celebrity and social media. What can we do?

Knowing our fast paced lives, it could all change again tomorrow. So, if it brings anyone solace, I will continue to live in this little bubble from time to time, because it is much better than the rainy atmosphere of the real world.

Speaking of all these technical stuff, follow me on instagram at @zoe2402 and on twitter @Zobo2402.

Business/Property, DINING OUT, Entertainment, News

Lucky 13 For The Brogue In Irish Restaurant Awards

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Tidy Brogue 3EARLIER we told you that Yummy Café and The Roast House received a large amount of nominations each in  the prestigious Irish Restaurant Awards.

Well, Kirby’s Brogue Inn just got notification this morning that they received a whopping 13 nominations.

“It means a great deal to myself and Kevin to have been nominated in so many categories” said Fiona Kirby.  “We are delighted that our team, who have worked so hard in building up the business with us, are getting recognition for all their hard work.  We are honoured to have been included in the nominations along with other great establishments in our wonderful town,” she added.

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The Rock Street business is nominated in the following categories: Best Restaurant; Best Chef – Kevin Cotter; Best Restaurant Manager – Fiona Kirby; Best Restaurant Manager – Brian Morgan; Best Café; Best Casual Dining; Best Customer Service; Best Emerging Irish Cuisine; Best Gastro Pub; Best Hotel Restaurant; Best Kids Size Me; Best Newcomer and Best Wine Experience.

The Irish Restaurant Awards are coveted accolades in the Irish Restaurant Industry. They recognise the achievement and excellence of various restaurants around the country in up to 21 different categories.

The full list of nominees has not been released yet by the organisers of the awards until all businesses have been notified, so more Tralee businesses may be informed that they are nominated.

News

Santa Fun Run Raises Fantastic Amount For Children’s Charity

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At the cheque handover for The Santa 5k Fun Run were, from left: Mags Quilinahan, Aoife Moynihan, Deirdre Moore, Martin Moore, Killian Moore and Margaret Rogers. Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
At the cheque handover for The Santa 5k Fun Run were, from left: Mags Quillinan, Aoife Moynihan, Deirdre Moore, Martin Moore, Killian Moore and Margaret Rogers, CEO of Heart Children Ireland. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.

ORGANISERS of the ‘5k Santa Fun Run’ have handed over a cheque of  €8,805 to Heart Children Ireland.

The Tralee ‘5k Santa Fun Run’ took place on December 13 last and raised much needed funds in memory of Fiona Moore, who sadly passed away in May 2013 while waiting for a double lung transplant.

The CEO of Heart Children Ireland, Margaret Rogers, travelled to Tralee to accept a cheque for €8,805 from  ‘5k Santa Fun Run’ organisers, Mags Quillinan, Aoife Moynihan and Deirdre and Martin Moore.

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Heart Children Ireland was founded 25 years ago and to date has collected over €2.5m for the new Children’s Heart Centre located in Our Lady’s Hospital, Crumlin.

Fiona Moore’s family first met Heart Children Ireland when she was a patient in Crumlin. While there she was greatly helped by the Cardiac play therapist.

It was always a dream of Fiona’s to have a dedicated space for teenagers in the Heart Centre as she so often said “teenagers need space too”. The money raised by the Santa Run is going towards making Fiona’s dream come true.

The event was a runaway success attended by hundreds of Santas, Elves and Reindeers raising €8,805 which Heart Children Ireland have specifically set aside to get this teenage space up and running.

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Rugby, Sport

Ultan Dillane Poised For Irish Debut As He’s Named On Bench For England Game

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Ultan Dillane, in the green of Ireland at underage level.
Ultan Dillane, in the green of Ireland at underage level.

TRALEE man Ultan Dillane has been named on the Ireland bench for Round 3 of the 2016 RBS 6 Nations Championship against England in Twickenham.

It’s fantastic news for the former Tralee RFC who looks set to make his first Ireland debut from the replacements bench, inside the belly of the beast at Twickenham on Saturday at 4.50pm.

He was named today in Joe Schmidt’s 23 man side this afternoon. He will take his place on the bench alongside experienced internationals, Cian Healy, Simon Zebo and Ian Madigan.

Best of luck Ultan, the whole town is proud of you! See team below…

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Ireland team to face England, Twickenham, 4.50pm, Sat 27 Feb

R Kearney (Leinster); A Trimble (Ulster), R Henshaw (Connacht), S McCloskey (Ulster), K Earls (Munster); J Sexton (Leinster), C Murray (Munster); J McGrath (Leinster), R Best (Ulster, capt), M Ross (Leinster), D Ryan (Munster), D Toner (Leinster), CJ Stander (Munster), J van der Flier (Leinster), J Heaslip (Leinster).

Replacements R Strauss (Leinster), C Healy (Leinster), N White (Connacht), U Dillane (Connacht), R Ruddock (Leinster), E Reddan (Leinster), I Madigan (Leinster), S Zebo (Munster).

News

Anam Cara To Host Bereavement Information Evening In Tralee

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anaANAM Cara, the national organisation that support bereaved parents and families, are hosting a ‘Bereavement Information Evening’ from 19:30-21:30 on Tuesday, March 8, at the Meadowlands Hotel, Tralee.

This event gives parents an opportunity to hear an experienced bereavement professional talk about the many challenges families may face after the death of their son or daughter.

The event is open to all bereaved parents, regardless of the age of their child or the circumstances of their death and there will be time on the evening for questions and to talk with other parents in a similar situation. It is encouraged that even if you have already attended before, to come along again as each time you will hear something different that will help you through the difficulty.

Guest speaker on the night is Pat McCarthy. She worked for a number of years as a nurse and went on to train as a counsellor and psychotherapist with a special interest in working in the area of bereavement, loss and change in life. She is also one of the founder members of The Irish Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Society now called Féileacáin.

The event is free, but numbers are need to be confirmed. If you would like to attend, you can RSVP to info@anamcara.ie before Monday, March 7, or contact them on 01 4045378 – 087 9637790.

You can visit their website here: http://anamcara.ie/

Entertainment, News

VIDEO: Drone Footage Beautifully Captures Fenit In All Its Spring Glory

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Screen Shot 2016-02-25 at 13.15.54THE people at ‘The Irish Drone’ hit a few nice spring days recently around Tralee Bay and the results are fairly beautiful.

They uploaded aerial footage of Blennerville last week and this time it’s Fenit’s turn to star in the rare, stunning sunshine. They’re promising similar beautiful scenes in the Maharees in the coming weeks so subscribe to their YouTube Channel here if you want to see that. In the meantime watch the short video below…

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News

Fenit Pier Included In €4.5m Capital Works Funding

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Fenit PierFENIT PIER has been allocated €112,500 in state funding as part of €4.5 million boost for local authority harbours and piers.

Money allocated will go towards  dredging works at the pier to improve access for fishing boats.

Other harbours and piers to benefit in Kerry were – Ballinskelligs Pier (€112,500), Renard Pier (90,000), Kay Rock AtoN (€60,000), Scraggane Pier (40,000), Visitor Moorings (€30,000), Kenmare River AtoN (€22,500), Caherciveen Pier (€3,600). The total for Kerry is €476,250.

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The funding is coming from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marines’ 2016 Fishery harbour and Coastal Infrastructure Development Programme. It was announced by, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Simon Coveney.

The package provides funding for the repair of piers damaged by recent storms, in addition to supporting the ongoing development and enhancement of harbour facilities including some marine leisure developments.

 

News

Local Restaurants’ Delight At Nominations For Prestigious Awards

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The Roast House and Yummy Cafe are both up for numerous honours in the Irish Restaurant Awards.

TWO Tralee businesses are celebrating several nominations each in the prestigious Irish Restaurant Awards.

Yummy Cafe on Dominick Street and The Roast House on Denny Street both took to social media in the past couple of days after they received the letters of notification that they are up for the awards.

The Roast House has nominations for Linda Carmody and Trish Tiernan, both for Best Restaurant Manager, Best Café, Best Restaurant,  Best Customer Service, Best Newcomer, Best Wine Experience, Best World Cuisine and Best Casual Dining (the category for which they won the honour for Kerry in last year’s awards).

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Meanwhile, Yummy Cafe has seven nominations for Best Restaurant Manager for Emer Tobin, Best Chef Keira Boyd, Best Restaurant, Best Casual Dining, Best Customer Service, Best Café, Best Kids Size Me.

The full list of nominees has not been released yet by the organisers of the awards until all businesses have been notified, so more Tralee businesses may be informed that they are nominated.

But Yummy and the Roast House could not contain their excitement that their hard work has paid off and shared the news on social media.

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The Irish Restaurant Awards are coveted accolades in the Irish Restaurant Industry. They recognise the achievement and excellence of various restaurants around the country in up to 21 different categories.

The news comes at Yummy Café is already celebrating receiving a ‘Dad Friendly’ recommendation from the Dads Network.

Following a revealing piece about the lack of suitable facilities for Dads in Restaurant and Supermarket chains throughout the UK, the ‘The Dad Network’ have established a growing list of ‘Dad Friendly’ and ‘Dad Unfriendly’ recommendations for their vast following worldwide.

It concentrates on the availability, or lack thereof, of baby changing facilities in male toilets and services designed specifically with fathers of young kids in mind. Yummy Café Market is the first location in Ireland, north and south, to receive a ‘Dad Friendly’ recommendation from the Dads Network.

GAA, Sport

Colm Cooper To Release Book For Christmas Market…Could This Be His Final Season For Kerry?

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Colm Copper, takes a shot on against Kildare in the 2015 All-Ireland quarter-final. Photo by Dermot Crean.
Colm Cooper takes a shot on against Kildare in the 2015 All-Ireland quarter-final. Photo by Dermot Crean.

COLM Cooper looks set to release a book on his career which will be released in time for Christmas.

According to a report in Kerry’s Eye today, the 32-year-old attacker is currently working on a book about his life with a Dublin publisher.

The news may spark speculation that Cooper, who will turn 33 this year, might be ready to hang up his boots with Kerry.

Unlike Premier League footballers, it’s highly unusual for GAA stars to release a book on their career while they’re still in the limelight of inter-county action.

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Darragh Ó Sé, Tomás Ó Sé and Paul Galvin have all, in recent years, signed off on their playing days with best selling books. Could Cooper be the latest?

It is unknown as yet if The Gooch will go the same route as Paul Galvin and pen his own story or if the project will be a collaborative effort.

Cooper made his debut for Kerry all the way back in 2002 making an instant impact on the national scene that saw him win an All-Star in his first season at the age of 19. Winning five All-Irelands and eight All-Stars along the way, he has become one of the most iconic footballers to pull on the green and gold and will certainly have an illustrious story to tell.

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Meanwhile, the Killarney native will be available for Eamonn Fitzmaurice to select for the first time this year when Kerry head to Páirc Esler in Newry to face down in Round 2 of the Allianz National Football League.

GAA, Sport

Tralee To Welcome Hundreds Of Ladies Footballers In March

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Launching the O'Connor Cup finals to be held in Tralee were IT Tralee footballers Maria Quirke (Kerry) and Carla Behan (Clare). Derek Kelly from sponsors An Sean Mhuileann and IT Tralee GAA officer Eamonn Fitzgerald. Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
Launching the O’Connor Cup finals to be held in Tralee this March were IT Tralee footballers Maria Quirke (Kerry) and Carla Behan (Clare). Derek Kelly from sponsors An Sean Mhuileann and IT Tralee GAA officer Eamonn Fitzgerald. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.

OVER 400 competitors will converge on Tralee over two days in March for the finals of the top third level colleges ladies football competition.

The O’Connor Cup weekend will take place on March 11 and 12 and take place across in the IT North Campus and John Mitchels.

The final itself will be broadcast live courtesy of TG4, from John Mitchels on Saturday March 12 at 6pm.

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Back in the 90s, IT Tralee were crowned champions of the O’Connor cup on two occasions, bagging a double in 1998 and 1999 around the same time as the men’s team from the college were excelling in the Sigerson.

This year the ITT is delighted to open its doors to 12 teams from the length and breadth of the country and hope to make the tournament one to remember.

The competition began in 1987 and is the female equivalent of the Sigerson Cup. The weekend also incorporates two other ladies gaelic football competitions – the Giles Cup and the Lynch Cup.

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Over the years the O’Connor Cup has transformed into a fiercely contested tournament with some of the game’s most exciting and talented players in action.

Colleges and universities nationwide compete throughout the year in the preliminary stages of the competition before the top teams emerge for the finals weekend.

Four hundred ladies footballers, management teams, family, friends and supporters will be in town and  also present at the weekend will be various dignitaries from both the Ladies Gaelic Football Association and the Gaelic Athletic Association.

News

Kerry County Council Launches Its Five Year Arts Strategy

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Launching Kerry County Council Arts Strategy 2016-2021 at Kerry County Library, Tralee, were, centre, Moira Murrell, County Executive Kerry County Council, John Breen, Director of Services Kerry County Council, Maria Svenssdn, Dancer in Residence, Kerry County Council, Sharon O'Keeffe, Arts Office, Caroline Lynch,Arts Office, Kate Kennelly, far right, Arts Officer, Kerry County Council. Photo: Valerie O'Sullivan
Launching Kerry County Council Arts Strategy 2016-2021 at Kerry County Library, Tralee, were, centre, Moira Murrell, County Executive Kerry County Council, John Breen, Director of Services Kerry County Council, Maria Svenssdn, Dancer in Residence, Kerry County Council, Sharon O’Keeffe, Arts Office, Caroline Lynch,Arts Office, Kate Kennelly, far right, Arts Officer, Kerry County Council. Photo: Valerie O’Sullivan

KERRY County Council recently launched its 5-year Arts Strategy. The launch, which took place on February 23, at the Tralee Library, was attended by over 70 people including a wide range of Kerry-based arts practitioners.

Among those in attendance were visual artists, writers, film makers, dancers and theatre practitioners while the main arts venues in the county and the larger arts festivals were well represented. Cathaoirleach of Kerry County Council Cllr, Pat McCarthy, Cllr. Jim Finucane, and Cllr. Jimmy Moloney also attended the launch.

Kerry County Council’s economic develop unit, tourism unit and community department attended as this strategy places emphasis on cross departmental co-operation for delivery.

Máire Logue, Listowel Writer's Week, Joe Murphy, St John's Theatre Listowel, Eilish Wren, Listowel Writer's Week, at the Launch of Kerry County Council's Arts Strategy 2016-2021 at Kerry County Library, Tralee. Photo: Valerie O'Sullivan
Máire Logue, Listowel Writer’s Week, Joe Murphy, St John’s Theatre Listowel, Eilish Wren, Listowel Writer’s Week, at the Launch of Kerry County Council’s Arts Strategy 2016-2021 at Kerry County Library, Tralee. Photo: Valerie O’Sullivan

Kerry County Council Chief Executive, Moira Murrell, said: “the strategy was an essential road map for the development of the arts in the county. The arts are at the heart of Kerry’s economic development and it is vital to provide targeted support to local artists.”

Arts Officer, Kate Kennelly, acknowledged all those across Kerry who took the time to be involved in the consultation for the plan, both directly with the arts office and also with the arts business manager, Deirdre Enright, who carried out research for the strategy. Kate thanked the arts sector for their support and the staff of the Arts Office for their commitment.

Entertainment

PHOTOS: Youth Theatre Group Takes On The Issue Of Mental Health

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The Duisigh theater group performers are, from left: Eibhlis Beirne, Saoirse Ferris, Pierse O'Brien, Conor O'Brien, Kate Moore, Dylan Harris and Robert Jones. Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
The Duisigh theater group performers are, from left: Eibhlis Beirne, Saoirse Ferris, Pierse O’Brien, Conor O’Brien, Kate Moore, Dylan Harris and Robert Jones. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.

A PLAY about mental health issues, written and performed by a youth theatre group, took place in Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí on Tuesday evening.

The production was devised, written and produced by a seven strong cast of Dúisigh youth theatre members who are based in Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí, where they hold weekly rehearsals.

The play, ‘Walking The Tightrope’ was the culmination of a three years of work and explores mental health issues in young people, looking at some contributing factors involved.

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“We looked at a few issues before devising it and we decided that mental health was the most relevant issue,” said Dúisigh member Saoirse Ferris.

‘Walking The Tightrope’ is the group’s third production.

The two other are, a street theatre performance about the obsession with social media called ‘Free Wifi’ and ‘Talk’, which deals with the issues around bullying.

“The reaction from the plays has been positive, people seem affected by it in a good way,” said Kate Moore of Dúisigh.

Some members in the group are doing their leaving cert and looking at moving on and studying drama at third level.

Dúisigh is affiliated with the National Association for Youth Drama in Ireland (NAYD) who give them chance to be involved in workshops and meet other theater groups from around the country. New members of the Duisigh are always welcome, for more information call Anita Pannell on 087-2762339.

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At the Duisigh theater group performance of 'Walking The Tightrope' were, from left: Jane and Veronica Costello. Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
At the Duisigh theatre group performance of ‘Walking The Tightrope’ were, from left: Jane and Veronica Costello. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.
At the Duisigh theater group performance of 'Walking The Tightrope' were, from left: Helen Sweeney, Miranda Cournane and Niamh Mulligan. Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
At the Duisigh theatre group performance of ‘Walking The Tightrope’ were, from left: Helen Sweeney, Miranda Cournane and Niamh Mulligan. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.
At the Duisigh theater group performance of 'Walking The Tightrope' were, from left: Claire Craven, Samera Hayes, Uresella O'Keefe, Helen Murphy and Loretta O'leary. Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
At the Duisigh theatre group performance of ‘Walking The Tightrope’ were, from left: Claire Craven, Samara Hayes, Ursula O’Keeffe, Helen Murphy and Loretta O’Leary. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.
News, SCHOOLS, WHAT'S ON

Na Gaeil To Host Bilingual Bingo For Seachtain na Gaeilge

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Launching the Na Gaeil Bingo for Seachtain na Gaeilge were, from left: Niamh Burke, Helen O'Brien, Mary Ellen O'Connor, Linda O'Brien, Sorcha Ui Shuilleabhain, Maeve Moran, Jossie Dalton and Cait Ui Luannaigh. Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
Launching the Na Gaeil Bingo for Seachtain na Gaeilge were, from left: Niamh Burke, Helen O’Brien, Mary Ellen O’Connor, Linda O’Brien, Sorcha Uí Shuilleabháin, Maeve Moran, Josie Dalton and Cáit Uí Luanaigh. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.

NA GAEIL Bingo and Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí will join forces for a bilingual night of bingo during Seachtain Na Gaeilge as a fundraiser for the school.

On Friday, March 4 beginning at 7:30pm at the clubhouse in Killeen, Na Gaeil Bingo will break from the norm for Seachtain Na Gaeilge, by calling out bingo balls in both English and as Gaeilge.

Bingo fans might hear “two fat ladies” coming out as something like “beirt bhan ramhar”.

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“As this is our first time doing the fundraiser, we are hoping for a great turnout,” said Niamh Burke, of Gaelcholáiste Chiarraí Parents Council. “We would love to see past pupils of the school and their families coming down to support the school that was so important in their education,” said Niamh Burke. Prize money on the night will total €1,000 with an overall jackpot of €200 to be won.

“We have a brilliant raffle, with loads of prizes which will give as many as possible a chance of winning,” said Niamh. If you need more information you can contact Niamh Burke on 087-9863667.

News

Astronomy Course For Budding Stargazers This Weekend

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l-r: Announcing deMoira Murrell, Chief Executive, Joan McCarthy, Head of Tourism Development, Abbey Cummings, Tourism Unit and John Griffin, County Tourism Officer.
From left; Moira Murrell, Chief Executive of Kerry County Council, Joan McCarthy, Head of Tourism Development, Abbey Cummings, Tourism Unit, and John Griffin, County Tourism Officer launching the astronomy course taking place this weekend.

IF you happen to be in the South Kerry area this weekend and looking for something to do, there will be an astronomy course for buddying star gazing guides held in the The Royal Hotel, Valentia, which commences at 6pm on Friday and continues until lunchtime on Sunday.

South Kerry is one of only three designated gold-tier Dark Sky Reserves in the world, with up to 6,000 stars visible to the naked eye on a clear night. Star gazing is becoming an increasingly popular pastime and it follows on from the success of the ‘Star Power’ workshop that took place in in Coláiste na Sceilge, Cahersiveen, before Christmas.

The course is being delivered by University College Cork and the Cork Institute of Technology and iss an approved UCC accredited course. It is assumed that participants have little or no prior knowledge of astronomy.

Brendan Touhy, Chairman of Kerry County Council’s Destination Kerry Tourism Forum, said: “This affords Kerry a great opportunity to attract new visitors, especially over the winter months, and locals need to be skilled and equipped to maximise its potential.”

A small number of spaces are still available and people can book online (cost of €50 including lunch on Saturday) at: https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/star-power-astronomy-course-tickets-21519850452​

Entertainment, News, WHAT'S ON

PHOTOS: ‘Faces Of Fenit’ Officially Opened At Tralee Library

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At the launch of 'Faces of Fenit' launch in the Kerry County Library were, from left: Mike O'Neil (Chairperson Fenit Development Assoiciation) and Jim McCarthy (Photographer). Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
At the launch of ‘Faces of Fenit’ launch in the Kerry County Library were, from left: Mike O’Neill (Chairperson Fenit Development Assoiciation) and Jim McCarthy (Photographer). Photo by Gavin O’Connor.

THE ‘The Faces of Fenit’ exhibition was officially opened by County Librarian, Tommy O’Connor at Tralee Library on Tuesday evening and is a must for anyone with an interest in the locality.

This is the second opportunity to catch the photographs on display, after Fenit Hall recently held a display of the photos taken by local man, Jim McCarthy of Digimac Photography.

The project was undertaken by Jim McCarthy and Mike O’Neill and captures over 130 photos of local families living in the Fenit area, to record who is living in the locality. All this was done in conjunction with Fenit Development Association.

The photos will remain on display at the library for a few weeks and is well worth a look.

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At the launch of 'Faces of Fenit' launch in the Kerry County Library were, from left: Liam, Billy and Jane Doyle. Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
At the launch of ‘Faces of Fenit’ launch in the Kerry County Library were, from left: Liam, Billy and Jane Doyle with their family photo. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.
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At the launch of 'Faces of Fenit' launch in the Kerry County Library were, from left: Ava and Mags McCann. Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
At the launch of ‘Faces of Fenit’ launch in the Kerry County Library were, from left: Ava and Mags McCann in front of their photo. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.
At the launch of 'Faces of Fenit' launch in the Kerry County Library were, from left: Catherine McCarthy and Grainne Shepherd . Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
At the launch of ‘Faces of Fenit’ launch in the Kerry County Library were, from left: Catherine McCarthy and Grainne Shepherd. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.
Entertainment

PHOTOS: Churchill Group Prepares For Two Sell-out Shows At Siamsa

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Rehearsing for the Churchill Players 'Springtime Show' were, from left: Rhianna Clinton, Tam Lynch, Juliette Clifford, Ian Dillane, Ciaran Murray, Molly Savage, Chantelle O'Sullivan, Rachel Quirke and Elle Stewart. Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
Rehearsing for the Churchill Players ‘Springtime Show’ were, from left: Rhianna Clinton, Tam Lynch, Juliette Clifford, Ian Dillane, Ciaran Murray, Molly Savage, Chantelle O’Sullivan, Rachel Quirke and Elle Stewart. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.

FOR the second year on the bounce the Churchill Drama Players theatre group will perform a ‘Springtime Variety Show’ for two nights in Siamsa Tire, but if you were hoping to get a ticket, you’re out of luck as they have all sold out!

The show will feature a cast of 100 from the Churchill and Spa areas on this upcoming Sunday and Monday nights.

Though the mood of the show is light and fun, because of the 1916 centenary, the group have decided to incorporate the events of the Rising into the performance.

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“The finale of the show will be a tribute to 1916,” said the show’s director, Oliver Hurley. “We will celebrate what the 100 years anniversary is all about and we have some wonderful singers in that for us,” said Oliver.

Because it’s a variety show, it will feature a wide range of performances from young and old from across the parish. These include tributes to musicals such as ‘Matilda’ and the Elvis-inspired ‘All Shook Up’.

Due to the group’s proximity to the ocean, a segment of the show called ‘Songs of the Sea’ will look at the close links to the maritime tradition in the area. The Churchill Drama Players, have been performing now for 26 years and are still a thriving focal point of the community in Spa and Churchill.

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Rehearsing for the Churchill Players 'Springtime Show' were, from left: Deirdre O'Brien, Susan Browne, Mary Hill and Linda Browne. Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
Rehearsing for the Churchill Players ‘Springtime Show’ were, from left: Deirdre O’Brien, Susan Browne, Mary Hill and Linda Browne. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.
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Rehearsing for the Churchill Players 'Springtime Show' were, from left: Aine Queen, Rosie McGrath, Liz Browne, Mary Joe Daly and Breda Breene . Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
Rehearsing for the Churchill Players ‘Springtime Show’ were, from left: Aine Quinn, Rosie McGrath, Liz Browne, Mary Joe Daly and Breda Breen. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.
Rehearsing for the Churchill Players 'Springtime Show' were, from left, front: Chris Murphy, Eoin Fitzgearld, Neil O Loyngsigh, Jim O'Sullivan and Dave Buckley. Back: Alan McElligott, Austin Clifford, Sean Donnellan, Donal Barry, Malachy Kelly, Shane Kenny and Michael O'Sullivan. Photo by Gavin O'Connor.
Rehearsing for the Churchill Players ‘Springtime Show’ were, from left, front: Chris Murphy, Eoin Fitzgerald, Neil O Loingsigh, Jim O’Sullivan and Dave Buckley. Back; Alan McElligott, Austin Clifford, Sean Donnellan, Donal Barry, Malachy Kelly, Shane Kenny and Michael O’Sullivan. Photo by Gavin O’Connor.
News

Danny Healy Rae’s Odds Shorten Dramatically With The Bookies

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Paddy Power has the Healy Rae brothers at odds-on for two seats.

THE latest betting on the Kerry constituency has seen Danny Healy Rae move from 8/1 to 1/8 to win a seat after Friday’s General Election.

His brother Michael is a dead cert according to the bookies at 1/80 as voters prepare to go to the polls.

Paddy Power’s odds also see Martin Ferris (SF) going from 1/8 to 8/15, while Arthur Spring (Lab) has also drifted in the market to 13/8.

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The two outgoing Fine Gael TD’s Jimmy Deenihan and Brendan Griffin are sold at odds of 1/12 and 1/5 respectively.

Although John Brassil is fancied at 1/7 to take the Fianna Fail seat, his party colleague Norma Moriarty has attracted plenty of support with current odds being 9/1.

The rest of the field is at varying odds of between 66/1 and 100/1.

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The latest betting from Paddy Power on Wednesday morning.
Beauty&Fashion, Lifestyle

Orlagh Winters: The Sun Is Out So It’s Time To Think About The Spring/Summer Wardrobe

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Orlagh New 1WHAT a beautiful  day it was here in the kingdom yesterday.

The sun was shining all day long and there was a beautiful stretch to the evening. Finally we can start thinking about our spring/summer wardrobe.

Here in Tralee we are lucky enough to see what are going to be the winners for the season with Kerry Fashion Week starting next week.

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Ballygarry House Hotel is where all you fashionistas need to be on Wednesday March 2nd where we will be treated to some wonderful designs from previous KFW award winners Delphine Grandjoun, I am lucky enough to be wearing one of her creations on the night as I act as MC.

Carol Kennelly whose designs we regularly see grace fashion pages worldwide, Tina Griffin who as we know has dressed just about every fashion conscious lady in the country and win best dressed on many occasions, Aoife Hannon, the darling of the millinery world whose signature style graces racetracks all over the globe.

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Clodagh Irwin Owens, who has the most amazing girly style designs and who is guaranteed to have a show stopping collection to feast our eyes on, Karyn Moriarity who has been showing a lot lately on RTE and who has a true sense of her style.

As well as all of these exciting designers, there will be pieces showing from amazing fashion houses, MacBees Killarney, Hannnons of Castleisland, Carraig Donn, Jasmine, Iota, Annburys, Paco, Friendtex, Ryles Menswear, Suits Select and for the children there will be the always cute styles from Divas and Dudes who will also be showing their ladies wear collections.

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A guest boutique on the night will be Phoenix V from Cork. Each year there is huge anticipation to see who walks away with the title of Kerry’s Most Stylish Lady and this year the prize is generously sponsored by Kellihers Toyota.

Dunnes Stores who are a new associate sponsor of KFW will also be showing their new Spring16 collections on the night. Tickets for the night are priced at €45 and can be purchased online at kerryfashionweek.com or at reception of Ballygarry House Hotel.

Don’t forget to dress to impress, as there is a wonderful prize for the Lancôme Best Dressed Lady. The evening includes bubbles (forget about Lent for the night), canapés (what diet?) and lots of super spot prizes. There is also a gift for everyone who attends.

Tickets are limited to 100 people so you have been warned. Looking forward to seeing you all there and if you are a reader of the column, come say hello.

Until next week,

Stay stylish!

Orlagh xx

News

Tralee Credit Union Celebrates Two Winners In National Art Competition

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Enable Ireland Adult Services Tralee 1st Prize Winners in the Group Category of the Irish League of Credit Unions Art Competition. Ann O’Brien receiving Enable Ireland’s winning prize from Brian McCrory President of the Irish League of Credit Unions with Breda Foran, Enable Ireland Co-Ordinator, winners Anthony Ward and Bernard James and Marty Whelan.
Enable Ireland Adult Services Tralee 1st Prize Winners in the Group Category of the Irish League of Credit Unions Art Competition. Ann O’Brien receiving Enable Ireland’s winning prize from Brian McCrory President of the Irish League of Credit Unions with Breda Foran, Enable Ireland Co-Ordinator, winners Anthony Ward and Bernard James and Marty Whelan.

TRALEE Credit Union had two National Winners in the Irish League of Credit Unions Art Competition at its Awards and Exhibition, which took place in Croke Park, Dublin, recently.

Enable Ireland Adult Services, Tralee, came 1st in the Group category and Elisha Buckley, a Leaving Certificate student from Mercy Mounthawk Secondary School, coming third in the 18 years and over category.

Elisha Buckley, who made the trip to Dublin on February 14 with her family, is studying Art for her Leaving Certificate with Ms O’Shea-Daly in Mercy Mounthawk and hopes to go on to Art College in the UK when she finishes school.

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Elisha Buckley (centre) with her National Winning Art Piece with Irish League of Credit Unions President Brian McCrory, Marty Whelan, Suzanne Ennis Tralee Credit Union, Mum Carol, Father Leonard, sister Meabh, brother Leonard and John O’Regan Chapter 23.
Elisha Buckley (centre) with her National Winning Art Piece with Irish League of Credit Unions President Brian McCrory, Marty Whelan, Suzanne Ennis Tralee Credit Union, Mum Carol, Father Leonard, sister Meabh, brother Leonard and John O’Regan Chapter 23.

Enable Ireland, Tralee also had a great show of support in Dublin accompanied by Enable Ireland Co-Coordinators, Breda Foran and Liz Gaynor. Three of the five winnersw who made the trip to Dublin were: Bernard James, Anthony Ward and Ann O’Brien. The two other winners, Orliath Mangan and George Dineen, were unable to attend.

Their Co-ordinator, Breda Foran, said: “we are delighted for the winners as they put in a lot of work over the five weeks and each brought their own ideas and interpretation of the theme to the project.”

The theme for the competition this year was ‘Happiness is…’ and was open to interpretation by each entrant and aimed to celebrate the creativity, imagination and vibrancy of budding artists.

The competition is one of the biggest art competitions for children and adults alike and has been running for 32 years. It is open to entrants of all ages and this year attracted over 30,000 entries through 300 credit unions nationwide.

Entries were then narrowed down to 32 art pieces, with each receiving national awards from the President of the Irish League of Credit Unions, Brian McCrory, and Marty Whelan in Dublin.

Elisha Buckley Leaving Certificate Student in Mercy Mounthawk Secondary School Tralee with vIrish League of Credit Unions President Brian McCrory and Marty Whelan
Elisha Buckley Leaving Certificate Student in Mercy Mounthawk Secondary School Tralee with vIrish League of Credit Unions President Brian McCrory and Marty Whelan
News

Kerry Doesn’t Fare Well In The Amount Of Disposable Income Per Person In 2014

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cash euros 1THE latest figures from the Central Statistics Office have revealed that Kerry are in the bottom five counties when it comes to disposable income per person.

Kerry had €17,154 in disposable income per person in 2014 with only Donegal, Monaghan, Offaly and Roscommon coming below them. However, the Kerry number was up on 2013’s figure of €16,653.

Strangely, the figures for Kerry from 2005 to 2014 show that we have more now per person than we did in 2005 when the celtic tiger was roaring, but less than in 2012 when the country was in the depths of recession;

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2005 – 16,830

2006 – 17,320

2007 – 18,220

2008 – 19,559

2009 – 18,455

2010 – 17,101

2011 – 17,171

2012 – 17,322

2013 – 16,653

2014 – 17,154

Dublin had the most disposable income per person in 2014 at €21,633. Donegal had the least disposable income per person with €15,558.

Our neighbours in Cork have €19,532 while Limerick fares higher at €21,116 per person.

To see the full list of figures click here

GAA CLUBS

Na Gaeil GAA Club News

Na GaeilCongratulations:  Heartiest congratulations to Na Gaeil senior player Jack Barry who won a Sigerson Cup medal at the weekend. He was a member of the UCD team that defeated DCU in the Colleges Final in Belfast on Saturday last. It is great achievement for Jack to be on the first UCD team to win a Sigerson Cup Final in 20 years. Well done.

Minors: 

Our county league game V Laune Rangers was postponed due to unplayable pitches at both clubs. Game rescheduled for February 27th away. With Leahy’s Pharmacy sponsoring our jerseys, Meadowlands Hotel have now on board with the team in sponsoring squad tops and pants for the panel.

We extend our appreciation to both sponsors. The lads did a fun session last Sunday at Banna Beach with Patrick, Shawn, Fergal and Damien braving the freezing waters afterwards. We wish Aaron and Anthony a speedy recovery from their injuries.

 U14 Boys:

The boys were put through their paces this week working on kick passing and the solo off both feet. Good numbers at all sessions and the sports complex is a real success in terms of training in these terrible weather conditions. Registration will be required in the coming weeks for all players. We will have a goalkeeping course in Na Gaeil on Saturday February 27th.

U10s:

Our boys continue to train indoors in Tralee Sports Complex. We had another big turnout last Sunday. Thanks to Shane Fitzgerald from the senior team who gave JJ and Ger a hand with the training. Training will take place again next Sunday at Tralee Sports Complex from 11am until noon.

Players are asked to bring €2 to cover the cost of the hall & please bring along your mouth-guard & a bottle of water too. Just a reminder that all players need to be registered with the club. Please register next Sunday. The cost for under 10s is €40.

U8s

Training continued at the Tralee Sports Complex Astro Turf Facilities on Sunday last at 10 am. Once again excellent turnout despite some technical difficulties with our texting service . The coaches divided the U7s & U8s into different groups to allow everyone get more ball time. We practiced the basic skills and finished with very competitive practice games.

Great performances from Brian Daly, Brian Heaphy & Nikita Hoare. Most improved players: Sean Cantwell, Fionn O’Dalaigh & Jack Kelly. All Players are asked to bring €2 to cover facility expenses.  Also ensure you bring your water bottle & mouth-guards. Make sure you check out the Na Gaeil Facebook page for lots of photos of the teams and training sessions. See you all next Sunday at the Tralee complex 10am.

Fir na Gaeil:

Light Football Training for Men who have retired from playing football and for those that have not played and would like to try it out. Very little skill is required. We train on Friday nights at 8pm in the gym at the moment. Runners and mats are all that are needed. This is a great way to keep fit with light training, ball games and a bit of a laugh. Contact Eddie at 0876791460 for more info.

Mná Na Gaeil:

We are a Gaelic for Mothers and Others team who come together and doing a bit of exercise, football training and socialising. Anyone who would like to join are most welcome, No skills are required, just a good attitude and a sense for fun. We are in the gym on Wednesday nights from 7.45pm.  Runners and mats are all that are needed for the moment.  Contact Eddie at 0876791460 for more info.

Lotto:

The draw for the jackpot of €2,200 took  place on Tuesday evening last. Numbers drawn were 5, 7, 11, 24.  There was no winner.  €50 winners were David Couchman, Ardfert and Gerard Aherne, Forge Cross . €25 winners were Jer O’Sullivan, Cahermoneen, Marguerete Maunsell, Laurel Court, Alice Murphy, Racecourse Lawn and Seán Hussey, Ashe St.  Next week’s lotto is worth €2,300 .All welcome for draw in club, each Tuesday at 10.30pm.

Bingo: B

ingo is on every Monday night at 8.30pm sharp. We have prize money of over €1,000 guaranteed every week with a mini jackpot that increases fortnightly when not won.  A door prize and a half-time raffle with lovely prizes also takes place every week. .  A bus service is available at 087 2817577.

You can ring this number for pick up and drop off.  100% of the funds raised go back directly into the club.   The bingo is run on a total voluntary basis and a huge thank you to all the parents who offer their time to run this vital fundraiser for the club.  If anyone wants to donate a spot prize for our weekly bingo raffle, please leave it at the club house and mark it “Bingo”.   Thanks to all our patrons who support this event on a weekly basis.

Cards:

A card game is held every Wednesday night in the clubhouse. This is a very sociable occasion where you meet your friends for a great night’s entertainment and relaxation.  Everyone from novice to senior will enjoy a relaxing game of 45.

 

News

Tralee Wetlands To Host Sea Turtles And Reptiles Presentation

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Reptile 1TRALEE Bay Wetlands Centre will host a presentation by Dingle Oceanword Aquarist, Louise Overy, in association with the Kerry Branch of the Irish Wildlife Trust, which will take place this Thursday, February 25, at 7:30pm.

The presentation will be about the sea turtle rescues and some of the cetacean strandings that occurred this year, and will be followed by a reptile encounter with some of their new members such as leopard geckos, bearded dragons and royal pythons.

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One of the consequences of our winter storms and changing weather patterns is that they often bring unintended visitors to our shores. We are familiar with marine mammal strandings in Kerry and sadly more often than not even if rescued, the animal does not survive, since it is usually sickness or weakness that brought them close to shore in the first place. Occasionally, the seas can bring stranger creatures to our beaches.

Leatherback turtles are regularly found in Irish waters; unusually for a reptile they are able to tolerate our cold Atlantic waters well, and are occasionally found stranded. Much more rarely, turtles from warmer seas are brought in by storms, and there have been a number of such creatures washed up on our coastline this winter.

The event is free to attend for members of the Irish Wildlife Trust, but they ask for a €5 donation from non-members/families.

For further information contact David at Tralee Bay Wetlands at education@traleebaywetlands.org or call 066-7126700

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