Minister Announces 108 New Beds At University Hospital Kerry

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THE Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly TD has announced an additional 580 beds for the South West healthcare region under the new Acute Hospital Inpatient Bed Capacity Expansion Plan.

This includes 108 new beds in University Hospital Kerry. The plan has been introduced in response to the ongoing Health Service Capacity Review and aims to bring the number of beds in HSE South West from 2.1 per 100,000 people to 2.6.

The plan includes:

• 342 new beds in Cork University Hospital
• 108 new beds in University Hospital Kerry
• 82 new beds in Mercy University Hospital
• 24 new beds in Mallow General Hospital
• 24 new beds in Bantry General Hospital

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]Minister Donnelly said: “I am delighted to be announcing this significant expansion of hospital beds across four hospitals in the South West region.

“This investment recognises that our growing and ageing population are placing more demands on our healthcare services and I am determined to drive forward with expansion that ensures people have access to the right care in the right place at the right time.”

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MTU Tralee Campus To Host Symposium On Rare Diseases Next Month

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MUNSTER Technological University (MTU) Tralee is set to host the All-Ireland Rare Disease Interdisciplinary Research Network (RAiN) symposium on Monday, June 10 from 11am-4:30pm. This symposium is open to anyone living with or interested in rare diseases.

Rare diseases, while individually uncommon, collectively pose a significant challenge to the global population, affecting approximately 350 million people worldwide.

In Ireland, the situation is particularly stark, with an estimated 410,000 individuals grappling with rare diseases, a staggering 70% of whom are children and young people.

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RAIN directly responds to this pressing research gap, providing a platform for the voices of individuals and families to be heard and actively contribute to research that directly impacts them.

RAiN is funded by the Department of the Taoiseach’s office through the Shared Island New Foundations Awards and UCD Strategy funding.

RAIN represents a collaborative effort to address the unique needs of families affected by rare diseases, amplifying their voices and driving meaningful change.

The network involves University College Dublin (UCD), Queen’s University Belfast (QUB) and 33 partner organisations across the Republic and Northern Ireland, including Munster Technological University. RAiN is co-led by Associate Professor Suja Somanadhan (UCD) and Prof. AJ McKnight (QUB).

Speaking ahead of the symposium, Dr. Somanadhan said, “Rare diseases affect hundreds of thousands of people across the island of Ireland. It is imperative that we continue to make progress in our research of these conditions to better assist those living with them. Events like the symposium at MTU Tralee provide essential learning and networking opportunities for people living with rare diseases and early career researchers. These events help to develop a community of practice and encourage those investigating rare diseases to further progress their research.”

For more information on attending the symposium, call RAiN Coordinator Melissa Kinch at  RAINALLireland@ucd.ie.

For more information on RAiN, see the network’s website – https://www.rainrareresearch.org/

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New Strategy To Support Roma Families Launched In Tralee

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Pictured are Sean Lyons Chair TIRC , Mary Carroll TIRC , Vanessa Covaci Roma Researcher , Priscilla Lynch Head of Primary Care HSE , Dr Patricia Kennedy Lead Researcher and Isac Ianko Roma Researcher at the launch of a HSE-funded health strategy supporting Roma families in Kerry and Cork in the Tralee International Resource Centre (TIRC). Photo By : Domnick Walsh © Eye Focus LTD.

A NEW HSE-funded health strategy supporting Roma families in Kerry and Cork – ‘Te Rodel Nevo Drom’ (We are looking for A New Way) – was launched on Tuesday morning in the Tralee International Resource Centre (TIRC).

Commissioned by TIRC in December 2022, with support from HSE Cork Kerry Community Healthcare, Dr Patricia Kennedy took on the role as lead researcher for the project to develop a strategy for Roma Families in Cork and Kerry, in collaboration with Roma peer researchers (‘experts by experience’) and with the guidance of a research advisory group.

There are 375 members of the Roma community in Kerry, the vast majority in Tralee (240). A consultation process, which involved talking with over 60 representatives from the Roma community, NGOs and statutory agencies, was completed between January and April 2023.

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Co-ordinator of Tralee International Resource Centre, Mary Carroll, welcomed the strategy: “We have been working with the Roma community for many years and this research is the voice of the Roma in Kerry and Cork themselves, which is the key to the way forward and effecting real change for this community – who have experienced significant levels of adversity.

“The findings cover the health and social needs of the Roma and the key is that they have been translated into actions – some of which can be progressed immediately, while others will require longer term planning and resources.

“Actions include the need to improve awareness of policy makers and providers, to celebrate Roma culture, increase access to translation and interpretation, develop a Roma Info-line and work specifically with Roma women. The complexity of the issues identified indicate there is a need for the establishment of a multi-agency response and the recruitment of Roma Peer workers to improve links between the Roma community and health and social services.”

Head of Primary Care for HSE Cork Kerry Community Healthcare Priscilla Lynch said: “I am delighted to see this Roma Community health strategy come together after input from so many committed researchers and stakeholders. I am particularly pleased to acknowledge the role of Tralee International Resource Centre in this area, as they support the Roma in Kerry.”

A summary of the strategy details is available in leaflet format, and in several languages for the Roma community to access.

It is available from TIRC on 066 712 7918 or by emailing reception@tirc.ie. The strategy document is available on www.hse.ie/romahealthstrategy .

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Killarney National Park Tops In Ireland In Natura 2000 ‘BioBlitz’ Celebration

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Sean O’Brien, NPWS, left and Adam Mulvhill, exploring Killarney National Park. Photo: Valerie O’Sullivan

Killarney National Park topped the poll in Ireland in a competition with fellow European nature sites and reserves to help identify and record as many species in one day.

Killarney National Park managed the most in Ireland, with a massive 513 species identified, 899 observations, with 11 observers, in the Natura 2000 ‘BioBlitz’ celebration 2024, the highlight of Biodiversity week in Killarney National Park.

The National Park came 9th overall in Europe, while Veluwe National Park in the Netherlands came first – with 1472 species, having a  huge advantage of 1515 observers at the weekend.

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It was a great result for Killarney National Parks, Conservation Rangers, General Operatives, Education Staff, and many volunteers who came together at the weekend to take part in the event.

A record number of species were confirmed by Chris Barron and the education team, who were also on hand to help identify and record the Killarney National Park results.

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Joe Says Farewell To Kerry College After Nearly 50 Years In Teaching

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Joe Kelly at his retirement in the Clash Campus on Tuesday. Seated in front is Joe (centre) with Deputy Principal Denny Street John Skinner, Deputy Principal Clash Campus Carmel Kelly, CEO of Kerry ETB Colm McEvoy and Principal of Kerry College Stephen Goulding. Photo by Dermot Crean

THE teaching faculty at Kerry College stood and applauded Joe Kelly as he entered the canteen on Tuesday morning to acknowledge a man who has given nearly 50 years of service in education.

The teacher and coordinator of the Construction Technology course at the Clash Campus was a little overwhelmed at the impromptu gathering and show of affection from his colleagues as he prepared to say farewell.

CEO of Kerry ETB, Colm McEvoy, described Joe as a “legend” in the teaching world and said he had never attended a retirement for someone who had given such length of service in teaching.

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On behalf of all at Kerry ETB, he wanted to thank Joe from the bottom of their hearts for a job well done, for serving generations of students and for being a great colleague to all. Mr McEvoy wished him well in his retirement.

An emotional Joe composed himself to thank everyone for the surprise gathering. He thanked Principal Stephen Goulding for giving him tremendous support over the years and the staff for being wonderful colleagues.

Principal of Kerry College Stephen Goulding speaking at Joe Kelly’s retirement.

Joe said he would miss his colleagues and would call in “now and again” to see them.

“You do wonderful work and you don’t get praised enough. I want say a very special thanks for being good comrades to me and supporting me at all times. I wish you all the best in your careers and remember, the student has to be the focus of your attention at all times,” he said.

“I had a great career and I’m happy going, but I’m unhappy in another way because I wish I could go on forever. But when Father Time taps you on the shoulder, it’s time to move aside,” said Joe.

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Joe began his teaching career in St. Davids CBS, Artane, Dublin, in January 1976, where he taught woodwork, graphics, and construction studies to Junior Cycle and Senior Cycle students.

It was a good time for Joe to be in Dublin because back then Kerry football enjoyed the ‘Golden Years’ team which meant Kerry were well able for The Dubs.

In 1980, Joe joined the staff of Moyderwell Vocational School under the auspices of The Town of Tralee V.E.C.

Joe’s C.E.O. at the time was Mr. John Falvey and the VEC chairman was Mr. Michael O’Regan. Joe’s principal was Mr. PJ Breen and deputy principal was Mr. Richard Chute, RIP.

CEO of Kerry ETB Colm McEvoy with Joe Kelly.

Joe had a half day on Wednesdays for sport, and the fields around the sport complex were full with participating students, where Joe had five teams of 15 for hurling.

In the school year 1986-87, TCC won a Munster Senior “B” hurling title, beating Scoil Stiofán Naofa from Cork City, in Austin Stacks Park, where the referee was none other than the all-time great from Kilkenny, Christy Heffernan.

TCC joint captains were Anthony Gleeson from John Mitchels and Brendan O’Mahony from Crotta O’Neills.

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As the school developed, the Senior Cycle and Transition Year students moved to Clash where they joined in with the RTC students, with the Junior Cycle students remaining in Moyderwell.

Joe Kelly with his wife Carmel at Kerry College Clash Campus on Tuesday. Photo by Dermot Crean

Then came the amalgamation of The Town of Tralee VEC with County Kerry VEC under the guidance of Dr. Barney O’Reilly CEO. During this period of time, teachers were often timetabled in both Moyderwell and Clash which meant teachers had to travel between centres.

In 1982, Joe heard from a colleague in St. Davids that a number of his former students lost their lives in the Stardust Fire Disaster, the only sad point in a career spanning 48 and a half years’ service.

In the early 1990s, Tralee Community College won a second Senior “B” hurling title, coached by Joe and Mr. Thomas Fitzmaurice and captained jointly by Pat Driscoll and Eamonn Ferris from Ardfert.

Around this time Joe turned his attention to developing a Post Leaving Certificate course in Construction Technology. The course was highly successful and it prepared learners for the world of work with many learners progressing on to apprenticeships, self-employment, and third level.

In Tralee Community College with Mr. Billy Curtin as Principal, Joe was Year Head for all students and served on the College Board of Management for two terms.

He also served as TUI staff representative on the Kerry Education Service Board for one term with Dr. Barney O’Reilly as CEO, attending a number of TUI Congresses as a Branch delegate and another term with Mr Colm McEvoy as CEO.

Over a long number of years, there was an increase in interest within the Community College staff towards dividing the college into two separate entities, 2nd Level Post- Primary and Further Education and Training in the form of PLC.

This long-term objective came to fruition when visionary CEO of the newly formed ETB Mr. Colm McEvoy took the decision to separate the then TCC into Coláiste Gleann Lí and Kerry College of Further Education.

Joe’s role then moved to teacher and coordinator of the Construction Technology course within Kerry College, Clash Campus.

The final years of nearly half a century of teaching has been spent under the Leadership of Principal Mr. Stephen Goulding who has been tasked with progressing the new Kerry College.

Joe wished to express his sincere thanks to Stephen and to all the other seven Principals, Deputy Principals, four CEOs, all the staff in Kerry ETB Head Office and all his teaching colleagues that have supported him throughout his teaching years and for the many years of friendship and comradery he has enjoyed.

As a classroom teacher with the Town of Tralee VEC, Kerry Education Services and Kerry ETB, Joe said it was a pleasure to work in a scheme where the Student/Learner educational and support services were second to none and easily accessible to all.

Joe is married to Carmel who is Deputy Principal at the Clash Campus and they live in Listowel. They have four children with three going into the teaching profession and one in secondary school with designs on the same path.

Best of luck to Joe on his well-deserved retirement.

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A Wonder-ful Weekend Ahead At The Ashe And Roundy’s Bar

Sponsored

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THE Ashe Hotel and Roundy’s Bar have a fantastic line-up of entertainment to kick start the summer this June Bank Holiday Weekend.

With ‘WONDER’ at Roundy’s Bar this Saturday you can experience a night of funk, soul and disco celebrating Motown Records artists and the music catalogue of the legendary Stevie Wonder.

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DJ Paudi Cronin and Rob Condon are on the turntables with Mossie Shea on Sax, as they journey through Stevie Wonder’s iconic catalogue, paying tribute to his profound influence on the world of music.

It’s an event not to be missed, setting the stage for an unforgettable summer night.

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This special evening promises to deliver the perfect soundtrack to a summer’s night, with groovy beats and soulful melodies that will have everyone dancing. Doors open from 6pm and WONDER starts at 9pm and admission is FREE.

Roundy’s is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday for the June Bank Holiday from 6pm.

Across at The Ashe Hotel, join local musician Daithi O’Regan Saturday evening the 1st of June from 8pm for an evening of live music in Alfie’s Bar. Sit back and relax with a cocktail while enjoying a mix of contemporary and classic songs.

To make a reservation for Alfie’s Restaurant please call 0667106300.

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Mary Lucey: Advice On Supporting Leaving Cert Students Before And During Exams

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Mary Lucey.

Mary Lucey of Career Ahead has some advice for parents/ guardians on how to support students as the State exams loom…

It is without doubt that every parent/guardian wants the best for their child on the run up to and during the Leaving Certificate examinations.

I am always amused by the feedback I get from parents around this time, especially if it is the first child in the family undertaking the exams.

As one father told me; “Not only is my daughter doing the leaving cert, but the entire household is doing it with her!”

Below are some tips for parents/guardians – based on my own personal experience working with thousands of students and their parents.  These should help leading up to and during the Leaving Certificate exams.

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Encourage students to Self-Manage

Allow the Leaving Certificate students to take control and drive their own study and revision sessions rather than hounding them and monitoring all they are doing.

It is important to remember too if they progress to college or further studies; they will be entirely responsible for their own work.

Not self-managing their work is one of the reasons that first year college students fail their exams.

While some parents offer incentives to encourage studying and for attaining certain grades in the Leaving Certificate; the student will get far more value if they realise that they personally will reap the rewards of hard work.

The drive should come from within to do well and not from an external factor such as the promise of money.

The significance of the Leaving Certificate

It is important for all involved to realise that, while the Leaving Certificate is currently significant in your and your child’s life, it will not make or break a person.

While at this present time, it may seem the most important thing in the world, it is equally important to remember that it is not.  It is a means to an end.

A means that, in a lot of cases, does not reflect the full potential or abilities of a student.   Having a great future and leading a full and rewarding life is not solely dependent on the outcome of the Leaving Certificate.

Have realistic expectations

As parents or guardians, you need to be aware and accept your student’s historical pattern of results and how these relate to potential CAO points.  Every parent/guardian wants their child to do their very best and to be happy with their results.

Students should not be pressurised to aim for a 600 points course if parents/guardians know that with hard work and effort, the scope of their ability is 400 points.

When Leaving Certificate results are released, I always believe that it is most disheartening to see images of 600-point students with School Principals in the media; when a student who achieves half those results ie 300 points, may have worked equally as hard and put in the same effort; but not get the same recognition.

Be aware of different abilities within families

Don’t compare siblings, each person is an individual, in their aptitudes and abilities, and how they will perform in exam settings.  One may be very well suited to rote learning and then regurgitating material for the Leaving Certificate formal examination scenario.

A sibling may struggle to perform with this type of learning style and examination scenario, this needs to be taken into consideration. It does not mean one is better than the other.

Encourage rather than nag (if possible!)

It is tempting to constantly tell the Leaving Certificate student that they should be in their room studying when you see them ‘hanging around’. When this nagging approach is used; it just causes friction and upset, negatively impacting the entire family.

Provide Practical Support

Good nutritious food is important leading up to and during the Leaving Certificate exams.  The odd treat is also nice for a student, who is working hard.  It is important that students eat well and drink plenty of water to ensure they are well set up physically to perform to the best of their ability.

Continue with Hobbies/Pastimes

Do not stop a Leaving Certificate student from keeping up their hobby/interest/sport when studying for the exams.  It is reasonable, however, to discourage such activities to take place for hours on end, every night of the week.

From a mental and physical health perspective, at regular intervals over the week, such activities and breaks from study are hugely beneficial to the student and will keep a balanced perspective on the looming exams.

Students and parents/guardians need to be aware of the various options after the Leaving Certificate outside of CAO and third-level colleges. 

Apprenticeships (leading to the same qualification as a college degree in some cases) and Further Education and Training (PLC Courses & Traineeships) provide great alternatives and thus remove the pressure of the Leaving Certificate alone determining careers.  It is well worth researching these very cost-effective options.

Try and keep things as normal as possible leading up to and during the exams.

The students will hear nothing but talk about the Leaving Certificate in schools, in the media, on social media, contributing to increased levels of stress and anxiety.

It is normal for them to be somewhat nervous as that shows they care about the outcome, so their feelings should not be dismissed.

Ensure to keep some time for regular fun family activities together. Ensure normal sleeping patterns are followed, discourage very late or all-night study sessions; this will impact on their ability to work/perform the next day.

The more normal everybody behaves, and the more relaxed the atmosphere in the house at this time, the better the student will function and perform.

• Contact Mary Lucey Career Ahead on www.careerahead.ie at marylucey@careerahead.ie or at 0879338941

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