Discover Duhallow Issue 165

Issue 165: 29th May, 2026

ROCKCHAPEL GATHERING WEEKEND 2026 LINE-UP

The organisers of the Rockchapel Gathering Festival are delighted to officially announce the entertainment line-up for this year’s festival, which takes place from Friday 5th to Sunday 7th June 2026 in the heart of Rockchapel. Now firmly

established as one of the highlights of the summer calendar in the region, the Gathering Festival promises another fantastic weekend packed with music, community celebration, family entertainment and local tradition.

Editors Note

As we come to the close of May and the Bealtaine season, we’ve been treated to a welcome spell of warm, bright weather across Duhallow; perfect for getting out and enjoying the many local events and gatherings. This month’s edition captures that vibrant community spirit, with photos and stories from across the region. Looking ahead, excitement is already building for the Rockchapel Gathering Festival at the start of June, with a fantastic line-up promising music, entertainment and something for all ages. It’s a wonderful time of year to celebrate our communities, meet friends old and new, and enjoy all that Duhallow has to offer.

Duhallow News

Trudi and Jamie Bailey after winning €15000 in the GAA lotto in Murphy’s Bar, Rockchapel with friends

Second class pupils from Kilcorney National School who received their First Holy Communion on Sunday, 10th May, in St Nicholas’ Church. Pictured with Fr Paul Bennett and their class teacher, Mrs Máiread Murphy.

Congratulations to Seamus Curtin and Marian Cronin who got married on Friday, May 15th in the Church of the Holy Spirit, Taur.

Knocknagree Ladies Football Club recently won their North Cork Final v Glanworth on a scoreline of 3- 06 to 3- 05. A fantastic game for both teams. Thank you to our coaches, parents and players for their time throughout the Under 13 League. Thanks to Glanworth for a great game on the night in miserable conditions.

The Positive Effects Of Volunteering In Your Local Community

By Colm O’Connor Rural Recreation Officer IRD Duhallow

Volunteering plays a vital role in strengthening local communities across the Duhallow area. From supporting community centres and sports clubs to helping older residents and organising local events, volunteers make a positive difference every day. Their efforts help create a stronger sense of unity and pride within towns and villages throughout the region.

One of the greatest benefits of volunteering is the way it brings people together. It encourages teamwork, friendship, and social connection among people of all ages. Many volunteers gain confidence, develop new skills, and improve their mental wellbeing through helping others.

Young people, in particular, can benefit by gaining valuable experience and learning the importance of community spirit.

Volunteering also supports important local services that may struggle without community involvement. Fundraisers, tidy towns groups, youth organisations, and charity events all rely heavily on volunteers. Their dedication helps improve the appearance, safety, and quality of life in the Duhallow area.

In addition, volunteering creates a culture of kindness and support. Small acts of generosity can have a lasting impact on individuals and families.

Overall, volunteering strengthens communities and helps make Duhallow a more caring, connected, and welcoming place for everyone.

Duhallow News

Double Triumph for Scoil na Tríonóide as Boys’ and Girls’ Teams

Crowned Duhallow

Champions

Both the girls and the boys football teams of Scoil na Tríonóide winning their respective Duhallow Sciath na Scoil titles. A victory parade was held in Newmarket on Thursday May 21st to celebrate this huge achievement in the first year of the schools amalgamation.

Duhallow News

Cork County Mayor visits Kiskeam

by Sheila Fitzgerald

The Flags were flying high in Kiskeam in honour of Cork County Mayor Cllr. Mary Linehan Foley who visited the Village last week at the invitation of local Cllr. Bernard Moynihan. The Mayor called to Scoil Mhuire National School and also dropped in to Western Duhallow Mens Shed.

“We were honoured to welcome the Mayor and Cllr Moynihan, everyone at our School would like to thank both our visitors for making the day such a memorable occasion for everyone involved” Eugene Kelliher, Principal of Scoil Mhuire said.

Pupils formed a guard of honour to welcome the guests and Mayor Linehan Foley assisted three pupils from the Green Schools committee in raising the School’s recently acquired Green Flag for

Energy. The Mayor complimented both pupils and staff and said this new achievement highlighted the school’s continued commitment to environmental awareness and sustainability. The Mayor and Councillor Moynihan visited each classroom, where they outlined their respective roles in local government and answered a selection of thought provoking questions from students about local issues affecting the community.

Next stop on the itinerary was Western Duhallow Mens Shed where Mayor Linehan Foley was delighted to meet the group from the hugely successful Shed who received a Community Award from her last February. Cllr. Moynihan presented a copy

of ‘Kiskeam versus the Empire’ to the Mayor and she enjoyed listening to some live music and chatting to everyone.

Ms. Linehan Foley complimented all involved in the Shed saying that their contribution to the local community was outstanding and she wished them well with all their endeavours going forward. Ned O’ Mahony, speaking on behalf of the group said that everyone was delighted that Youghal native Ms. Linehan Foley was able to visit Kiskeam before her tenure as Mayor expires in June.

What’s On In Duhallow

Kanturk

Weekly Newmarket

CYMS Hall

Newmarket Bridge Club

An Chultúrlann

Writers’ Circle

Time: 7:30pm

2nd Wednesday of Every Month

Share your stories, get inspired, and connect with fellow writers.For details, contact 087 640 6705

Rambling House

Time: 8pm

2nd Saturday of Every Month

An evening of traditional storytelling, music, and craic!

Newmarket Dementia Café

Time: 11am – 1pm

1st Thursday of each month. A welcoming place for people with dementia, their family and friends.

Social Dancing

Time: 9pm

Last Friday of Every Month –Dance the night away and meet new people!

Gneeveguilla

SHARE THE BUCKET

Time: 8:30PM, Every Friday Evening

Cost: Tickets €2 each or 3 for €5

Tickets: Are available at Teach Fáilte and can be bought online at https:// tinyurl.com/y2ade5om or in local businesses where you see the Green Share the bucket

Mushera Platform Dancing

June 24th St John’s Night Mushera

July 26th Mushera

August 23rd Mushera

September 20th Balinagree village

Time: Every Tuesday at 7.30pm

All members and newcomers are welcome. Contact Eugene on 086 3247041 for more information.

Taekwando

Time: Mondays at 5pm. Contact Niall on 0831106501 for more information. Art & Drama Summer Camp with Mike and Bríd

Time: 29th of June to the 3rd of July 10am to 1pm daily Price: €75 per child

The camp is suitable for 1st to 6th class children.Contact Mike on 0874124741 to book a place.

Julie Nolan School of Irish Dancing

Time: Every Tuesday classes from 4.15 to 7.30. Contact Julie on 086 3516386 for more information.

Catherine O'Reilly Exercise Class

Time: Tuesdays from 10 to 11am Contact Catherine on 087 6800280 to book your place.

Better Balance Staying Fit

For The Future

Time: Tuesdays 11am to 12. with Cork Sports Initiative. Contact Catherine 087 6800280 to book your place.

Music Lessons With John

Time: Thursdays Upstairs in hall. Contact 0872322751 to book

Dance at CYMS Hall

Time: Friday, 5th June 2026 9-11pm Admission: €10

Michael Collins band

Organized by John Joe Dances 087 9735113

Edel Quinn Hall

Tuesdays

Dancing with Dan: 8 - 10pm. All welcome

Foróige Youth Club: 7- 8.30pm in the Foróige room located at the front of the hall. Young People aged 12-17yrs. New members welcome. Contact 087-2065296

Wednesdays

Bingo: 8 - 9.30pm. Single & 3 sheets = €15, Double & 3 sheets = €17, Double & 6 sheets = €22.

Thursdays

Taekwondo: 6-8pm. New members Welcome.

Sundays

Christian Worship Service: 11am Fountain Gate Christian Church Bingo at 2pm: Last Sunday of Every Month

Temperance Hall

Tuesdays

Kanturk Fly Fishing Club 7 - 9pm. New members welcome.

Wednesdays

Kanturk Flower Club: Meet the first Wednesday of every month at 8pm.

Pilates

Monday, Tuesday & Friday Mornings

Grow Mental Health Meeting in Kanturk

Time: Every Monday at 2pm (Except Bank Holidays)

Venue: Linn Gorm Hall, Kanturk, P51 YC57

Grow is a 12 Step Support Programme for any person coping,and living with stress, anxiety, depression, or any issue in your life, creating worry and concern. The Meetings are small in numbers, free to attend, relaxed, confidential, friendly and anonymous.

Banteer

Banteer Ladies Social Soccer

Time: Every Tuesday 8pm-9pm Venue: Banteer Indoor Astroturf For all ladies 16+. Fun, Exercise and Friendship. Any queries Text Laura: 087 468 1407

Glen Theatre Banteer

Saturday, May 30th

Hawtheatre Company Presents: Last Train From Holyhead - Written and directed by Bernard Field

Admission: €20

All shows at 8pm. Booking: www.glentheatrebanteer.ie/contact Phone 029 56239 (Ext 1)

Banteer Underage Soccer Camp

Time: Wed 22nd, Thurs 23rd and Fri 24th July

Millstreet

Clara Loop

IRD Duhallow are currently undertaking improvement works to The Clara Loop. We will endeavour to keep the trail open at all times. We ask all walkers to take caution and personal responsibility for your own safety. If you need any further info please call 029 60633

Kanturk Ladies Social Soccer

Time: Wednesdays from 8-9pm

Venue: Gurteenard, Kanturk For all ladies 16 years and upwards. Fun, Excersise, Friendship

Any queries text Laura at 807 468 1407

Tureencahill Community Centre Weekly Schedule

Monday:

Yoga 6.45–7.45pm & 8–9pm (Contact Denise: 086 8901234)

Tuesday: Sean Nós Dance (Adults) 7–8pm, 6-week block (Contact Kieran: 085 1731073)

Wednesday:

Bridge 1–4pm, Kids Kickboxing 4.30–5.30pm (Maurz: 089 4010475) Kids Set Dancing 6–7pm (Marie: 083 0045432)

Thursday: Monthly Pop-Up Gaeltacht Contact (086 3159744)

Friday:

Active Retired 12.30–2pm Yoga 7–8pm & 8.15–9.15pm (Men only)

(Contact Denise: 086 8901234) Enquiries: 085 8771949 tureencahillcg@gmail.com

Dance Classes with Norella

Time: Every Wednesday @ 8.15pm

Venue: Ballydesmond Community Centre.

Admission: €10 pay as you go. Learn to dance the jive, waltz, quickstep, line dancing and more. Great exercise, good fun. No partner needed.

KNOCKNAGREE LADIES FOOTBALL CLUB

New players from Age 4 to Adult are welcome to our club. There is training available to all ages on Wednesday nights in Knocknagree GAA Pitch. We offer structured training and game time for all players. Please check out our Social Media pages for up to date information on our club which is updated weekly. or please contact our Club Chairperson Catherine on 083 3498778

For Parents

Donoughmore

Parent and Toddler Group

Donoughmore Community Hall Stuake, Co. Cork, P32 FP49

Monday 9.30 - 11.30

Millstreet

Parent and Toddler Group

GAA Hall, Millstreet, Co. Cork

P51V577 Monday 9.30am-12pm Newtownshandrum

Parent and Toddler Group

Community Hall, Newtownshandrum, Charleville. Friday 10am-11am

Newmarket Breastfeeding Support Group

Time: 11.00am to 12.00pm. Venue: Castlecourt, Newmarket, Co. Cork.

Facilitated by PHN. Just drop in or phone 02961500. Breastfeeding mums and expectant mums are welcome.

Freemount Social Dancing

Time: Sundays 3 to 5:30pm

Venue: Freemount Community Centre P56 P893

Admission: €10

Strictly Adults only. Refreshments will be served. For more information: 083 458 9222

Set Dancing in Aubane

Venue: Aubane Community Centre P51 EP49

Time: Every Monday at 9pm

Rockchapel Gathering Festival Announces

This year’s musical line-up features an exciting mix of wellknown acts and local favourites, with performances from Tully, The Rising, The Gallivanters and Damien Mullane all confirmed to take to the stage over the weekend. Organisers say the programme has been carefully designed to offer something for all ages and tastes, while continuing the festival’s strong community focus.

In addition to the live music, the weekend will include a packed schedule of events and activities including the hugely popular Kids Tractor Run, Family Fun Day, Community Cuppa Morning, craft displays, exhibitions, live performances and a variety of entertainment throughout the village. The festival will once again celebrate the unique culture, heritage and community spirit of Rockchapel and the wider Sliabh Luachra area.

Festival organisers are encouraging

people from near and far to make a weekend of it and experience everything the Gathering Festival has to offer. The event continues to attract large crowds each year, bringing visitors into the area and providing an important boost to local community.

Speaking at the launch, committee member Brendan Cahill said that “we are looking forward to welcoming everyone back for another memorable festival weekend and we wish to thank the many volunteers, sponsors and supporters who help make the event possible each year.”

The Gathering Committee would like to thank IRD Duhallow, Cork County Council and Failte Ireland for their support in this year’s event.

Announces Exciting 2026 Line-Up

The Sound of Summer

By ALICE O’BRIEN Alice O’Brien Counselling, Newmarket

The first day of May has passed, so summer is here. But we don’t need a calendar to tell us. There are many signs of summer. Long evenings, the smell of the fresh cut grass, the sound of the local children playing ball longer into the evenings, less need for heating, less worry about the price of oil. And of course salads, it’s the time of year where bread rolls and coleslaw are acceptable for dinner and tea.

How does the arrival of summer affect us? Does it really improve our mental health?

The longer days mean more exposure to sunlight, which is one of nature’s mood-boosters. The increase in serotonin due to the

brighter mornings and evenings reduces feeling of low moods and anxiety. In addition, the extra sunlight helps to increase our vitamin D levels, which plays a big role in brain health and emotional wellbeing.

Longer evening brings more opportunity for physical exercise and movement, which releases endorphins. When we are out in the evenings, we are more likely to meet our neighbours or friends, increasing our social connections. Being around greenery, open spaces or water can naturally have a calming effect on our mind. Allowing extra ways to de-stress from the working day.

More exposure to natural light helps to regulate our sleep-wake cycle which improves our sleep quality, making us feel more rested.

So, there is a lot of advantages to this time of year. All the benefits can be enjoyed anywhere, we don’t need the expensive sun holiday to feel the sun on our faces, we just need to turn our face to the sun wherever we are. So, get out and enjoy the long evenings, go for the walk, mow the lawn or just sit outside to drink a cup of tea.

Get Summer-Ready from the Inside Out

By MAIREAD O’KEEFFE New Leaf Health Store

With summer holidays just around the corner, many of us are looking forward to sunshine, travel and a well-earned break. A little preparation before you go can make all the difference in helping you stay well and enjoy your holiday to the fullest. One of the most important things to think about is protecting your skin in the sun. More people are now choosing mineral sunscreens over chemical-based options, as they sit on the skin and physically reflect UV rays rather than being absorbed into the body. They’re often gentler on sensitive skin and are kinder to the environment too. At New Leaf, we stock a range of natural mineral sun creams

suitable for all the family.

It’s also worth supporting your skin from within. Beta carotene is a natural antioxidant found in brightly coloured fruits and vegetables, and it can help support the skin’s natural defences against sun exposure. A supplement such as BioActive TanCare is specially formulated to nourish the skin before and during time in the sun and is a great addition to your summer routine.

Another common holiday issue is digestive upset from unfamiliar foods, different water or changes in routine. Taking friendly bacteria before and during your trip can really help support gut health and reduce the likelihood of tummy troubles while away. Optibac Travel is one of my favourite choices for holiday support and is easy to pack in your suitcase.

A few simple steps before you travel can help you feel your best, so you can relax, recharge and enjoy every minute of your summer break.

Duhallow News

Sustainable Development Goal [SDG] 10: Reduce Inequality Within And Among Countries

By Melissa Holland

There is something quite noble about a title such as “Reduced Inequalities – within and among countries,” yet it is also slightly overwhelming. The ambition of reducing inequality on a global scale can feel so broad that it becomes difficult to know where to begin. Yet the most meaningful way to understand inequality is not through international statistics or policy language, but through the quieter realities of everyday life.

Inequality rarely presents itself in just one form. It can relate to income, disability, education, age, location, or access to opportunity. It can affect someone living in Ballydesmond as much as someone living in Macroom. Sometimes it is visible and immediate; other times it quietly shapes the opportunities available to people throughout their lives. A lack of transport, difficulty accessing services, social isolation, or barriers to employment and education may all influence whether a person feels connected to their community or left at its margins.

This is what Sustainable Development Goal 10 seeks to address. At its core, the goal is to create fairer opportunities and reduce barriers that prevent people from fully participating in society, despite their background or circumstances.

In many respects, that work already exists at the heart of

community development. At IRD Duhallow, a significant amount of the organisation’s work is founded on the belief that rural communities should remain inclusive, connected, and accessible to all.

Pre-Intermediate Level Group Class learning English recently.

While the language of “reducing inequalities” may not always be spoken directly, the principle itself is prominent across many of the supports and initiatives delivered here.

Within rural communities, inequality can often be experienced more sharply through distance and isolation. Through programmes such as LEADER, WorkAbility, SICAP, Wellbeing & Recovery College, LAES, Skillnet and other wider community-centered initiatives, IRD Duhallow works alongside individuals, families, and local groups to support participation and opportunity. One example of this is the WorkAbility: Inclusive Pathways to Employment programme for people with any disability which supports individuals who may feel distant from the labour market through customised training, one-toone career guidance, confidencebuilding, and employment supports. Elsewhere across the

organisation, SICAP continues to support people in building skills and reconnecting with opportunities that may once have felt out of reach, such as the Duhallow English Connect: Community Language Empowerment for people whose first language isn’t English. Likewise, our Afterschools service helps children develop creativity and social connections while also supporting families who rely on accessible childcare to work.

Sometimes reducing inequalities is not about one major intervention. Sometimes it is about making places where people feel welcome and supported. These actions may appear small on their own, but together they reflect a wider commitment to strengthening our communities, supporting one another, and ensuring that everyone experiences an improved quality of life. In many ways, this is what reducing inequalities is really about.

Duhallow News

Rekindling the Fire of Love of the Pioneer Total Abstinence Association (P.T.A.A.) of the Sacred Heart

On December 15, 2025, at the end of the Jubilee year of Hope, Pioneer Pins and Certificates were presented to 20 people in the Heritage Centre Freemount by Fr Eamon McCarthy. Plans are ongoing to revive the P.T.A.A. previously under the Jesuits Order. The Association is now structured into a company limited by guarantee, (CLG) while retaining its charitable and voluntary status and assisted by the Central Council of the P.T.A.A. and the Irish Bishops Conference. Now that this structural milestone has been reached, the Board of Directors are keen to consult with members on how they can rekindle the P.T.A.A., increase membership, involve young people, develop the range of activities and enhance the prayer life of individuals and the organisation.

Information/Consultation meetings will take place throughout

Ireland in May and June. Members whether active or not and members of the public are welcome to attend the Silver Springs Hotel in Cork, T23 E244 on Sat June 6th from 2pm to 4pm. An online meeting will also be held on Thursday June 11th from 7.30pm to 9.30pm to facilitate people unable to travel. The link to join the meeting is available by contacting info@pioneers . ie or ringing (01) 8054226

Liam O Dwyer who has worked with the Society of St Vincent De Paul, the Irish League of Credit Unions and more recently the Irish Red Cross will facilitate the meeting which has a 2-hour limit. A Board Director will be present to listen to the experiences and ideas of the members, who are the heart (art of hearing with the ear/praying with tears of joy or grief) of the P.T.A.A.. A new strategic plan will be presented later in 2026 at the

General Assembly. On December 28th, 1898, Fr James Cullen along with 4 women founded the P.T.A.A. as he witnessed the suffering of women and families due to the excessive alcohol consumption. In 2026 it is time to rekindle the fire of the Holy Spirit in our hearts as families and communities are traumatised by the levels of domestic violence, murders, accidents, health issues and deaths caused by the over consumption of drink and drugs. Our teenagers need the opportunity(a gift within a gift) to choose to drink intoxicating drink/drugs or not without being ostracised. Let us hope and pray that the pledge will be offered at the Ceremony of Light for the Confirmation Sacrament. Any ideas, suggestions or comments would be greatly appreciated. Eileen (083) 4042919 /Mary (087) 9744500

Banteer U10s Win the Jim Bradley Memorial Cup

The Jim Bradley Memorial Cup was presented to Millstreet GAA Club in 2023 by the Bradley family in memory of Jim Bradley, who served as Principal of Scoil Mhuire Boys National School for almost three decades. Jim had a lifelong passion for hurling and trained many successful Sciath na Scol teams, leading the school to titles in 1993–1998 inclusive, as well as in 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2009.

The 2026 Jim Bradley Hurling Tournament took place on Sunday, 24th May, at Millstreet Town Park and GAA Grounds. The participating U10 teams were Banteer, Rathmore, Dromtarriffe, Laochra Óg and Millstreet.

Each team played four games of 20 minutes each, with Banteer and Rathmore progressing to the final. Banteer emerged victorious on the day to claim the Jim Bradley Memorial Cup.

There was a fantastic atmosphere throughout the tournament, with excellent hurling skills and sportsmanship on display from all teams.

Congratulations to Banteer on a great achievement

Duhallow News

The Spirit of Bealtaine at Rockchapel Tea Dance and Castlemagner Bealtaine Cabaret

A great afternoon was enjoyed at Rockchapel’s Young at Heart Tea Dance on May 20th, with music by Stevie Donegan keeping dancers on their feet. The event also featured bingo, entertainment and refreshments, creating a warm and social atmosphere. Castlemagner Sinsir Club likewise celebrated Bealtaine on the 22nd, with a lively evening cabaret, full of music, fun and community spirit, as seen in the accompanying photos.

Duhallow News

Ras Tailteann Stage 2:

A Day To Remember For All In Banteer

Banteer put its best foot forward on Thursday last week to host the stage 2 Ras finish in the village.

This was a major undertaking for the area with big crowds on the day.

It was great to see the local team O’Leary Stone Kanturk Cycling club man, William O’Connor finish a strong 2nd place in Banteer. He went on to win the County Rider section, the Under 23 rider as well as 6th Overall in GC and helped Kanturk to 2nd place in the Team event. A name to watch for the future.

He did that in only his 2nd Ras and his team defended his position with record average speeds of 49kmph on the last stage into Dunboyne on Sun last Kanturk also secured other wins with Arnaud Dumoulin 2nd overall in the C2 classification, Rory Condon finished inside the top 10 in both the County Rider and U23 classifications, capping off a brilliant Rás for the team.

Special thanks to the many stewards and volunteers who helped with parking, stewarding, catering at café and sportsfield etc. The Tidy Towns Committee who worked so hard for many weeks before to make the village look its very best.

Sincere thanks to Cork County Council, IRD Duhallow, local companies/sponsors and local councilors and TDs for their support, including their assistance with funding.

Many thanks to the local Gardaí and especially Garda Katryn Canty and all her colleagues, who assisted in implementing the traffic management plan for the day.

Many thanks also to Kanturk Cycling club for their help with stewarding for the day.

It was a special day for the families of the 4 previous Banteer winners, the Corkery, Cahill, O Brien and Dunbar families with special presentations being made to the families by Banteer Lyre and Districts Community Council and the

The magnificent winning cyclist Tim Shoreman (UK) at the finish line as Stage Two of the prestigious Rás

was enthusiastically welcomed in Banteer on Thursday, 21st May 2026. Some 128 Cyclists arrived in various placings.

Ras Tailteann team.

Refreshments were available for all in the village during the race thanks to Mark O Flynn and afterwards at Banteer Sportsfield Café after the race.

Congrats to Team Manager Dan Curtin, who guided his team to their best ever Rás.

One of the many very impressive signs on display in Banteer and surrounding areas on Thursday 21st May illustrating the four highly renowned successful Cyclists from the Banteer area.

Community Moments from Millstreet, Aubane and Banteer

Photos by Seán Radley

Members of the Teaching Staff at Millstreet Community School pictured at the recent superb production of "Dancing Queen - the Musical" performed by the Transition Year Students.

From left: Michelle O'Keeffe, Francie Lyons, Aindrias Moynihan, T.D. and Pól Ó Síodhcháin attending the recent superb production of "Dancing Queen - the Musical" performed by the Transition Year Students.

A wonderfully colourful scene from "Dancing Queenthe Musical" recently performed by the Transition Year Students at Millstreet Community School.

The exquisite setting at the Cross Country Equestrian event in Drishane on Saturday, 23rd May as one of the very talented Competitors progresses past the Drishane Entrance feature.

outstanding

followers from far and wide.

Monday,

May

Duhallow News

All enjoying delicious refreshments at Banteer's magnificent Sports Complex following the very successful conclusion of Stage Two of the highly prestigious Rás Tailteann event.

Teachers and Organisers of the recent very successful Reunion of the 1975-1980 Class that attended Millstreet Community School all assembling at the Clara Inn, Millstreet on Saturday evening, 23rd May 2026.

Recording the superbly uplifting comments of many at the hugely historical occasion in Banteer at the conclusion of Stage Two of Rás Tailteann. The radio broadcast will be transmitted on Cork Music Station (just Google on the Internet) at 10pm on Tuesday, 2nd June 2026.

Jacob of the very popular FOLk Speciality Coffee mobile unit which was present for the Jim Bradley Memorial Cup series of hurling games in Millstreet Town Park on Sunday, 24th May 2026 - provided a delicious dessert treat for lucky attendees on the occasion.

Reunion of the 1975-1980 Class that attended Millstreet Community School assembling on Saturday evening, 23rd May 2026 for a most enjoyable occasion during which many special memories were evoked.

Across

1. Knowledgeable person in a particular field (6)

3. Receive something offered (6)

8. Circuitous (7)

10. Luxury craft (5)

11. Prominent (5)

12. Out of the ordinary (7)

13. In front (5)

15. Felt pain (5)

20. Frequent patron (7)

22. Mindful (5)

24. Once more (5)

25. Imbue (7)

26. Firstborn (6)

27. Request for a sum of money (6)

Down

1. Oar (6)

2. Not at any time (5)

4. Aquatic South American rodent (5)

5. Leave out (7)

6. Aggregates (6)

7. Progeny (5)

9. Last letter of the Greek alphabet (5)

14. Emaciated (7)

16. Item of furniture (5)

17. Colonnade (6)

18. Juicy fruit (5)

19. Breakfast food (6)

21. Parts of a chain (5)

23. Die away (5)

Solution: Issue 164, May 15th, 2026

Duhallow

Crossword sponsored by Duhallow Community Food Services

Duhallow

Duhallow News

Complete the crossword and post with your name and contact details to:

Discover Duhallow Puzzle Competition, James O’Keeffe Institute Newmarket, Co. Cork

Or simply scan completed puzzle or take a snap with your phone email to discoverduhallow@irdduhallow.com

Terms & Conditions:

Deadline for submissions is noon on Friday, June 5th, 2026

First correct entry drawn will win a €20 voucher, valid for three months from date of issue, to be redeemed for food at the Duhallow Community Food Services. No cash alternative. Winner will be named in subsequent issue of Discover Duhallow. One entry per person. No correspondence will be entered into. Voucher to be collected from Duhallow Community Food Services, Newmarket.

Congratulations to Mary Cronin, Millstreet who wins a €20 voucher for Duhallow Community Food Services!

Duhallow News

The Feast of the Visitation

By TOM DENNEHY

One of the great feast days that we celebrate during the month of May is the Feast of the Visitation of Our Lady to her cousin, Elizabeth, on May 31st.

Through the message of an angel, Our Lady received her request from God to become the mother of His son, Jesus. Mary was told by the angel that her cousin, Elizabeth, was in her sixth month of pregnancy with John the Baptist who was to prepare the way for the coming of her son, Jesus, on earth. ”And behold Elizabeth, your cousin, has also conceived a son in her old age and this is the sixth month for her who was called barren” Luke 1.36.

Mary’s “Yes” to God, known as her Fiat, was her free courageous consent to become the Mother of Jesus. When the Angel Gabriel announced she would conceive the Son of God, Mary responded; “Behold I am the servant of the Lord; let it be done to me according to your word.”Luke 1.38. Mary did not blindly accept without understanding; she questioned the angel to understand. Thus began God’s wonderful plan to restore salvation to the whole world.

Following the Annunciation, Mary didn’t dwell on her own situation but thought about the welfare of her cousin, Elizabeth and went in haste to visit her in the hill country of Judea, a journey of 100 miles from Nazareth which would take her up to three days to complete. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leapt in her womb. Elizabeth was filled with The Holy Spirit and giving a loud cry, said, “You are most blessed among women and blessed is the fruit of your womb. How is

it that the mother of my Lord comes to me? The moment your greeting sounded in my ears, the baby within me suddenly leapt for joy. Blessed are you who believed that the Lord’s word would come true.” Luke 1. 41.45. Mary, filled with the Joy of the Holy Spirit, responds to Elizabeth, praising God for what He has done for her.

The Magnificat

This prayer of Mary is known as The Magnificat, a song of praise to God.

“My soul proclaims the greatness of The Lord, my spirit exults in God, my saviour. He has looked upon his servant in her lowliness and people, forever, will call me blessed. The Mighty One has done great things for me. Holy is His name. From age to age, His mercy extends to those who live in His presence. He has acted with power and done wonders and scattered the proud with their plans. He has put down the mighty from their thrones and lifted up the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things. He has sent the rich away empty. He held out His hand to Israel, his servant, for He remembered His mercy, even as He promised to our fathers, to Abraham and His descendants forever.” Luke 1. 46.49.

We celebrate the Feast of the Visitation every time we pray the Joyful Mysteries of the rosary. We repeat Elizabeth’s greeting as part of the Hail Mary, “Blessed are you among women and

blessed is the fruit of your womb.” Luke 1.42. We pray this second mystery focusing on the joy of salvation and the working of the Holy Spirit in two miraculous pregnancies, showing that nothing is impossible to God.

We too must become like Mary who becomes for us a model of active faith, charity and humility. Mary immediately travelled to assist her cousin, Elizabeth, after learning of her own miraculous pregnancy. Her example highlights selfless service, joy in bringing Christ to others and surrender to God’s holy will.

In a reflection on the Feast of the Visitation, Pope Francis stressed that The Visitation invites us to reflect on how we welcome Mary into our own lives. Mary is not only the Mother of Jesus, but a spiritual Mother to all of us believers, She is always ready to help us to get closer to her son, Jesus. Through her example, Christians are called to live an active faith, which translates into service to others and a constant search for God’s will. The Pope invited us to contemplate The Magnificat, Mary’s song of praise, as a reminder of the attitude we must cultivate, an attitude of praise, gratitude and unconditional surrender to the will of God.