Discover Duhallow Issue 170

Issue 170: 7th August, 2026

MINISTER JERRY BUTTIMER SEES FIRST-HAND THE IMPACT OF RURAL INVESTMENT

During a visit to Duhallow on July 23rd, Minister of State Jerry Buttimer witnessed firsthand the remarkable impact of community-led development across the region. From enhanced facilities in Rockchapel and a growing amenity park in Meelin, to the official opening of the Glen River Walk in Banteer and progress on Bweeng’s new running track, the visit

highlighted how government and EU-supported programmes are empowering local communities to transform their villages. The projects showcased the dedication of local volunteers and the lasting benefits of investment through LEADER, SICAP, CLAR, ORIS and other rural development initiatives.

Pictured above are atendees at the Annual AGM and launch of the 2025-2026 Progress report on the 27th of July

IRD Duhallow CEO Maura Walsh, IRD Duhallow Chairperson Anne Maria Bourke and Vice Chairperson Dominic Cronin

IRD Duhallow Staff Members Margaret O’Connor, Monica Gilmore and Derval Corbett

The newly launched progress report for 2025-2026, which can be found online at www.irdduhallow.com and in locations throughout Duhallow

Duhallow News

Bringing Europe Closer to Home: IRD Duhallow’s New EU Awareness Programme

By Nollaig Murphy

Since the start of July, Ireland has held the Presidency of the Council of the European Union for the eighth time. The role requires the presiding member state to work in a spirit of cooperation, ensuring continuity in the EU’s work and helping to advance key policy priorities across Europe. During the six-month term, Ireland will plan and steer the Council’s meetings, driving forward its work on EU legislation and facilitating cooperation between member states and EU institutions.

To coincide with this important

period, IRD Duhallow’s Communicating Europe Initiative is set to increase public awareness and understanding of the role that the European Union plays in our daily lives. The programme which is supported through Department of Foreign Affairs will deliver activities that highlight the significance of Ireland’s Presidency while bringing together schools, community groups, young people and participants from a range of IRD Duhallow programmes. Through a variety of community and school-based events, participants will have the opportunity to learn more about Ireland’s contribution to the European Union, and the relevance of democracy and shared values across member states. Building on the success of previous CEI projects in Duhallow, the initiative aims to encourage

Day Courses

greater public interest in European affairs and develop a deeper understanding of how EU policies affect local communities.

A key theme of the programme will be the role of women in politics and public life. Events will explore how European Union membership has influenced gender equality in Ireland, while also highlighting the contribution of women to political life at local, national and European levels.

Through engaging a diverse range of participants, the project hopes to strengthen awareness of European issues and inspire active citizenship among people of all ages throughout the Duhallow region. Details of upcoming activities will be published in Discover Duhallow, and we look forward to keeping readers informed as the programme unfolds.

Duhallow News

Millstreet Active Retired Enjoy

Memorable Day Trip to Clonakilty

Millstreet Active Retired group had a very enjoyable day trip to Clonakilty on 1st July. They went to the Clonakilty Black Pudding Visitor Centre first for a guided tour and breakfast. Then for a walk around Clonakilty town before heading to the Model Railway Village for tea and scones in a beautifully refurbished railway carriage. They admired the Model Villages and then boarded the Road Train for a drive around Clonakilty town. After the train trip it was on to the Riverview shopping Centre in Bandon for some "retail therapy" And finally a tasty dinner in the Castle hotel Macroom.

Their next outing will be an Afternoon Tea Dance in the Wallis Arms hotel Millstreet on Sunday 27th September at 2.30. Music by Peter Lane. Admission €15. All welcome.

Duhallow News

Sixth Years Start Smart, Not Panicked

By BRIAN GILL

By the end of the first week back, many sixth years already feel behind. Past papers are handed out, courses continue at pace, and there is a growing sense that everything suddenly matters. It’s normal to feel uncertain at the start many students do. For parents, knowing how best to offer support without adding pressure can also feel challenging.

The reality is that sixth year is a long year and how students begin is far more important than how much they do in the first few weeks.

One of the most effective ways to start is not to dive straight into heavy study, but to step back and review each subject carefully.

A simple approach works best. For each subject, students should ask, “Where am I right now?” From there, topics can be grouped into three categories:

• High priority – areas that are not well understood and need focused attention

• Medium priority – topics that are familiar but need more practice

• Low priority – areas of strength that simply need to be maintained. Students can use class tests, past exam questions, or even their own confidence level to make these judgements. What matters is honesty. This process brings clarity at a time when everything can feel equally urgent. In reality, it is not.

It also provides something even more important: a starting point for a study plan. When students know what needs attention, they can focus their time where it will make the biggest difference.

For parents, this offers a more productive way to support. Instead of asking, “Are you doing enough study?”, it can be more helpful to ask, “What are your high-priority areas at the moment?” This shifts the focus from hours spent to progress made. It is also worth remembering that sixth year is not won or lost in September. Students who try to do too much too soon often find themselves exhausted and struggling

to maintain momentum later in the year. A better approach is to build consistency from the outset.

Simple habits matter more than students often realise. Completing homework properly, paying attention in class, and asking questions when unsure may sound basic, but they are often the first things to slip when pressure builds. When done well, these habits significantly reduce the need for long hours of study later on.

The goal in these early weeks is not perfection, but direction. A clear sense of priorities, combined with steady daily effort, puts students in control of the year ahead.

Students who take care of the small things now rarely find themselves panicking later.

Finally, remember that you don’t have to navigate sixth year alone. If you have any questions, would like further information, or wish to arrange an appointment, please feel free to contact me. I’m always happy to help. Email: BGGuidance1@gmail.com Whatsapp: 087 697 3556

Tractor Run Fundraiser Connects With Great Cause

The Ned Tarrant Memorial Tractor Run 2026 ran in April, in aid of Cancer Connect. They raised €8,500. Finally on Sunday, June 26th, the committee got to present their cheque to Cancer Connect.

Cancer Connect is a not for profit organisation with charitable status that coordinates transport to Cork hospitals for passengers attending radiotherapy, chemotherapy and cancer related appointments. Cancer Connect has been in operation since 2011. The service is free, flexible and confidential. They currently have a team of over 600 volunteer drivers. Transport for passengers was offered in West Cork originally but due to growing demand, the service

is now offered throughout Cork county. Cancer Connect is now firmly established in communities as a vital support for many to access cancer related appointments in Cork. By December 2025, over 65,000 passenger journeys have been recorded.

Cancer Connect was represented on the night by Theresa Cremin, Vera Walsh, and Michael Hall. Theresa and Joan spoke eloquently about what they do and how they help cancer patients with their treatment. Theresa gave the following stats in her speech. In the week leading up to the presentation, 148 passenger journeys were completed. 52 different passengers were supported. 60 volunteer drivers

helped deliver the service. Passengers travelled from 30 different towns and villages across the county. Where they Went: 71% of journeys were to Cork University Hospital. Other destinations included: Mercy University Hospital, Bon Secours Hospital, Home, South Infirmary, Mallow General, St. Finbarr’s and other specialist locations. Just one week in the world of Cancer Connect, a truly invaluable service to those that need it.

Well done to The Ned Tarrant Memorial Tractor Run Committee, the people that helped out on the day and those who supported the fundraiser and Cancer Connect.

Duhallow News

Duhallow Vintage Club was delighted to present a donation to the UCC Parkinson’s Research Department. A sincere thank you to all our members, supporters and friends who donated and made this possible. Your generosity is greatly appreciated. This year’s run was held in memory of the late Mary O’Sullivan, Freemount, whose memory continues to inspire us. It was a pleasure to meet everyone at UCC, including Tony Wilkinson, a passionate advocate for Parkinson’s research. Thank you to everyone who helped make this worthwhile

What’s On In Duhallow

Kanturk

Edel Quinn Hall

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!

Glen Theatre Drama Group

Have you ever wanted to be part of a local drama group? Now is your chance. We are looking for new members of all ages to join us - both on stage and behind the scenes. Whether you’d love to act, help with stage management, set building, lighting, sound or props, we’d be delighted to welcome you. No experience is necessary, just enthusiasm and a willingness to get involved. Come along, meet new people, learn new skills and be part of bringing great theatre to our community and beyond.If you are interested or would like more information please contact 029 56239 (Ext 1 or 2). We’d love to hear from you. The stage is set…..all that’s missing is you!

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.

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

CYMS Country and Irish Dancing

First Friday of every month starting October 2nd

Friday October 2nd

Jason Travers

Friday November 5th

Eddie Lee Band

Friday December 4th

The Brilliant Peter Burke

Admission: €10

Time: 9:30 - 11:30pm

Contact John Joe Herlihy for more information: 087 9735113

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

Thursdays

Taekwondo: 6-8pm. New members Welcome.

Sundays

Christian Worship Service: 11am Fountain Gate Christian Church

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.

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 087 468 1407

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

Rathcoole Rovers

We want you!

Under 17s new players welcome Compete, Develop, Enjoy Be part of our club/our community Preseason starting August 2026 Cooney park

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

The Freemount Comhaltas Seisiúns.

Time: Wednesdays the 29th of July and August 12th, 19th & 26th at 8pm

Venue: Freemount Heritage Centre P56 KX01

Admission: €10

Special Guests on the 29th July are The Castlemagner Singers

Laharn Cross Open Air Dancing

Venue: Laharn Cross, Lombardstown, Malllow P51 N726

Sunday, 9th August

Liam Cantillon

Sunday, 16th August

TimJoe & Anne

Sunday, 23rd August

Billy O’ Brien

Sunday, 30th August

Peter Lane

Sunday, 6th September

Ger Donoghue, Valencia Island

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

Mushera Platform Dancing

August 23rd Mushera

September 20th Balinagree village

Gig Guide

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

Macroom

Briery Gap

Upcoming Events

Theatre: The Rime of the Ancient Mariner, Fri 07 August at 8pm, €22

Concert on Film: Andre Rieu’s 2026 Concert, “Viva Maastricht!” Sat 08 August at 7:30pm, €20

Live Music: White Raven Trio with Gerry O'Connor, Sat 15 August at 8pm, €29

Cinema: “The Misfits” Mon, 24th, Wed, 26th August at 8pm: €12

Box Office: 083 143 6884 More info at www.brierygap.ie

IRD Duhallow

Poetry Reading with Bernard O’Donoghue

Do you enjoy poetry? Are you passionate about English literature? If so, this is an event not to be missed

Join us at the James O’Keeffe Institute, Newmarket, for a captivating afternoon of poetry and insight with acclaimed poet, academic, and author Bernard O’Donoghue.

Immerse yourself in the richness of his work as he brings his poetry to life through live reading

An unforgettable occasion for lovers of literatur and curious minds alike

Time: 2:30pm-4pm

Venue:IRD Duhallow

Date: 19th August

Sign-in begins at 2pm!!!

Phone Number: 029 60633

Email: david.oconnor@irdduhallow.com

The Can Do Spirit of Duhallow Impresses Minister Jerry Buttimer

Photos by SHEILA FITZGERALD

On July 23rd, Jerry Buttimer, Minister of State at Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht visited Duhallow and observed some fantastic projects throughout the area. His first stop along the way was to Rockchapel village.

The Rockchapel Community is very ambitious and progressive and has benefitted from LEADER and SICAP supports including restructuring its committees and drawing up strategic plans for the area.

Over the years Rockchapel has had significant investment from CLAR, LEADER & SICAP. The

Minister visited the community centre to see the impact LEADER funding has had on the facility and the adjoining playground. Rockchapel is in the heart of Sliabh Luachra which has had significant investment from LEADER over the years preserving the history, music and dance of the region for future generations

Minister Buttimer Highlights Community-Led Development Across Duhallow

After Rockchapel, Minister Buttimer stopped off in Irelands highest village; Meelin, to once again see the impact of bottom up community development at its best.

Here he met with locals including the Meelin Amenity Projects CLG. As a community Meelin have always been very active and engaged with IRD Duhallow operating a successful sports hall, community group and drama group.

The Minister got to visit the newest project in Meelin which is the amenity park where the committee have successfully purchased a site which now boasts an astro turf pitch, a soon to be state of the art LEADER Funded playground along with a community walkway.

All have been achieved though the determination of the committee to secure LEADER funding along with Sports Capital and the Community Sports Facilities Fund.

Before Minister Buttimer turned the sod on the soon to be playground and walkway, the Mayor of the County of Cork; Cllr Bernard Moynihan tests the new astroturf and his soccer skills for the minister.

Minister Buttimer Highlights Community-Led Development Across Duhallow

After enjoying a delicious lunch in the James O’Keeffe Institute, Newmarket, Minister Buttimer was welcomed at the Glen River, Banteer, to officially open phase 1 of the Glen River walk. This project was part funded

by the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Funding and completed by IRD Duhallow TUS and RSS participants. We hope to progress works on Phase 2 of this project under measure 2 of ORIS funding in early 2027.

Minister Buttimer Highlights Community-Led Development Across Duhallow

For his final stop of the day in Duhallow, Minister Buttimer visited Bweeng where he got a fantastic presentation on the current project being completed in the village - the nearly completed Bweeng Running Track.

In total, Bweeng has received LEADER Grants of over €288,000 in the last 14 years. The most recent being the Bweeng Running Track which was approved €100k towards the site preparation, drainage and groundworks

and which will compliment the previously funded playground, walkway and multi use games area. There is a great community of volunteers in Bweeng and it’s a credit to them to have come together to improve their village.

Health Celebrating Mayo

By ALICE O’BRIEN

Alice O’Brien Counselling, Newmarket

The whole country has been swept up with the green and red of Mayo lately. Even the most hardened of Kerry GAA fans could not begrudge Mayo their recent celebrations. There wasn’t a cow milked or a child washed in Mayo for the past three weeks. In fairness, they deserve to celebrate; they waited long enough for the silverware.

The amazing thing about this particular match was the power of connection it brought to the rest of the country. We all cheered for the under-dog and celebrated their achievement without a hint of

jealousy, and it felt good to watch others shine as we all basked in the glory. Celebrating others is more than just about being kind, it benefits those we celebrate but it equally benefits us. Sharing in someone else’s success builds trust, friendship and mutual respect. When we share the joy of others we can focus on gratitude and optimism, we do not need to compare. Enjoying the success of others can also reduce feelings of envy and resentment as it shifts the mindset from a feeling of scarcity to abundance. There is enough for us all, other peoples achievements does not lessen our own. Really looking at the success of others can also show us what

is possible and what can be achieved- Mayo waited 75 years to prove this. Kindness can also be like a boomerang, we send it out and it often comes back to us. So, as Mayo celebrate their win, we tip our cap to them and pat them on the back. Although things might be different if they were playing the rebels.

Back to School Wellness Starts Now

By MAIREAD O’KEEFFE

New Leaf Health Store

It might only be the beginning of August, but the summer holidays have a habit of flying by. Before long, school bags will be packed, lunch boxes will be filled and families will be getting back into the school routine. With schools returning at the end of August, now is the perfect time to start thinking about supporting everyone’s wellbeing. When it comes to the immune system, consistency is key. Supplements such as vitamin C, vitamin D and probiotics work best when taken regularly, so starting them a couple of weeks before school begins gives them time to become part of the daily routine. It’s much easier to establish

healthy habits now than in the middle of the back-to-school rush.

For children, products such as Nature’s Plus Kids Immune Support and Animal Parade Gold are popular choices to complement a healthy diet, plenty of fresh air and a good night’s sleep. For adults, including parents, teachers and anyone returning to busy workplaces, echinacea and elderberry (Sambucol) are favourites for seasonal immune support as we head into autumn. A natural throat spray is also worth keeping close by, especially for teachers whose voices will be working overtime during those first few weeks back.

Of course, back to school also brings the return of those less welcome visitors... head lice! A little prevention can go a long way.

Many families choose a tea tree or neem shampoo as part of their regular hair care routine, while a dedicated head lice repellent spray, such as Pure Essential Head Lice Repellent, offers extra peace of mind during the school term.

Remember, supplements aren’t a substitute for a healthy lifestyle, but they can be a helpful addition alongside good nutrition, plenty of sleep, regular exercise and taking time to recharge.

A little preparation now can make those first few weeks back at school that bit easier. If you’d like advice on choosing the most suitable natural health products for your family, we’d be delighted to help at The New Leaf Health Store.

Upcoming Event

Now in it’s 19th year Ted’s Opel Vauxhall Run is one of the largest Opel/Vauxhall event s in the whole of Ireland, attracting enthusiasts from throughout the country and beyond. This year’s run will take place on Saturday 8th August 2026 Based this year at Coolcower House, Macroom, Co. Cork. P12 E135.

Registration takes place on Saturday morning from 9am with a fee of €20 per car. Each car will receive a starter pack. The first Award of the day will be presented at 10am a nd the cars will depart at 11am. The route will take in some of the fantastic scenery of Mid West Cork, Muskerry and the Gaeltacht Mhúscraí region

Leaving Coolcower House the route will take in Hartnett’s Cross, Toonsbridge, Inchigeela, Lough Allua, Pipe Hill, Carriganass Castle, Coomhola Bridge, Ballylickey, Stopping at Cronin’s Centr a / Service Station for the mid -way stop.

We will then continue to Kealkill, The Coosane Gap, Coppeen, Béal ma Bláth, Crookstown, Lissarda and returning to Coolcower House for the Prizegiving and a BBQ.

As always there is an array of Perpetual and Special Awards on offer, some will be presented during the day, there will be a raffle with numerous P rizes.

We are delighted to have the continued support of Opel Ireland and Cartell.ie. and Casey Caravan Services.

Our association with t he Dogs for the Disabled Charity began before our first run in 2008 and we continue to fundraise for them.

All Opel/ Vauxhall / Bedford / GM vehicles are welcome on the run regardless of age. We hope to see you all on the weekend of the 8th August. Even if you don’t own a vehicle, come out to see the cars and wave us off or give us a wave along the way, or come join us when we return in the evening. Fáilte roimh cách.

Further information call Ted ;- 086 3256751 or Denis;- 086 3562905 or follow the event on Facebook

For Accommodation;-

Coolcower House, Macroom, Co. Cork. P12 E135. Contact Bernie 087 7657153. Fountain House B&B, Macroom, P12 YP20, Contact Breda 086 8213940. Castle Hotel, Macroom, P12 ED78. Contact 026 41074.

Donoughmore Carnival Brings Community Together for Another Successful Year

Donoughmore Carnival, which is one of the longest running events of this type in the country, was held on the weekend of 26th July. As usual, it was very well supported and brought friends and neighbours together to celebrate what is best about living in a close knit rural community. Events included the very successful launch of Donoughmore Ladies Football Healthy Club Initiative, Tug of War, Vintage Display, Sheaf Tossing, matches for various ages, novelty competitions such as Egg Tossing and Knock the Can as well as Fittest Family, Car Treasure Hunt and Bingo. It was great opportunity to have fun and socialise while raising funds to maintain and develop the great facilities that are provided in the community grounds in Stuake

Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG 14), Life Below Water

By

AIDAN SUART

Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG 14), Life Below Water, is one of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals established by the United Nations in 2015 as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

The main aim of SDG 14 is to conserve and sustainably use the world’s oceans, seas, and marine resources. Oceans cover more than 70% of the Earth’s surface and play a vital role in regulating the climate, producing oxygen, supporting biodiversity and providing food and livelihoods for billions of people worldwide. Marine ecosystems face growing threats from pollution, overfishing, habitat destruction, and climate change.

SDG 14 Life Below Water seeks to address these challenges by promoting sustainable fisheries, reducing marine pollution and protecting coastal and marine ecosystems.

IRD Duhallow through their bottom-up approach have played a key role in protecting local freshwater river catchments that flow directly into marine estuaries. Protecting vulnerable inland waterways to improve overall ocean health downstream.

The successful delivery of the projects such as the Duhallow Farming for Blue Dot Catchments Project and Owentaraglin River EIP coordinated with over 120 local farmers to design and implement farm specific mitigation measures which reduced agricultural pollutants and sediment reaching rivers.

Furthermore, IRD Duhallow have successfully delivered several EU LIFE Projects through initiatives including the Duhallow LIFE SAMOK Project, this project worked by managing conservations strategies in the

Munster Blackwater River Special Area of Conservation, this project initiated on the ground restoration works that specifically targeted the protection of vulnerable aquatic species including the Atlantic Salmon, Brook Lamprey and the highly sensitive Freshwater Pearl Mussel.

Through such initiatives IRD Duhallow continues to promote best practice, delivering valuable training and educational opportunities to the local community on how contributing to improving water quality has a great impact locally and further downstream.

While global challenges such as pollution, habitat degradation, overfishing, and climate change

continue to threaten marine ecosystems, meaningful action at the local level can make a significant difference. By continuing to promote environmental awareness, education, and best practice, IRD Duhallow continues to support building resilient ecosystems and empowering local communities to play an active role in safeguarding life below water, contributing to the broader goals of SDG 14 Life Below Water.

Sustainable Development Goal 14 highlights the urgent need to protect and sustainably manage our oceans, seas, and marine resources for the benefit of both present and future generations.

Seanie Radley’s Moments Through A Lens

at the official opening of

One of the many colourful displays at the Millstreet Festival 2026 Outdoor Market.

A section of the large attendance present at Cullen Community Centre for my Talk on the Sunday morning on Memories and History of Cullen during the recent St. Laitiarain Festival.

Professional Clown from New York, Marilyn Horan, delights her audience at Coolinarne, Millstreet where she has been doing so for over thirty years on her annual visit lasting some weeks to her ancestral Irish home.

Coordinators from Millstreet Vintage Club at the "Cars and Coffee at the Castle" held recently in Drishane Estate in aid of the Irish Guide Dogs Association and Cancer Connect Transport.

Seanie Radley’s Moments Through A Lens

We thank Neil Corkery of Millstreet for sharing this superb image of the Corkery Families recently meeting with the famous Mayo brothers Football heroes in Salou - Kobe McDonald and Jordan Flynn.

Liam O'Connor, Family and Friends provided truly magnificent musical entertainment for the many international visitors in Green Glens at the opening of World Equestrian Event 2026.

Paul O'Connor's superb display of his photographic work at the Millstreet Festival 2026 Outdoor Market attracted lots of positive interest.

Millstreet Pipe Band leading the Parade of Nations 2026 through Millstreet Town.

Crossword sponsored by Duhallow Community Food Services

Across

1. Friend (9)

7. Stringed instrument (5)

8. Part of a jacket (5)

9. Notion (4)

10. Prejudice (4)

13. Sand hill (4)

14. Vegetable (4)

17. Weak (5)

19. Freight (5)

20. Ended (9)

Down

1. Stateroom (5)

2. Large house (7)

3. Worshipped (6)

4. Not working (4)

5. Short sleep (3)

6. Book of maps (5)

11. Disregarded (7)

12. Writing implement (6)

13. Postpone (5)

15. Stay clear from (5)

16. Tribe (4)

18. Part of a circle (3)

Solution: Issue 169 July 24th, 2026

Duhallow News Duhallow News 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, August 14th, 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.

WINNER

Congratulations to Lucy O’Keeffe, Rathmore who wins a €20 voucher for Duhallow Community Food Services!

Interest

The Promises of Jesus

By TOM DENNEHY

Jesus is the one who never breaks His promises to us. During His time with us He has made many promises. We should all be familiar with them and call on them whenever we feel threatened or in despair.

Some of the most significant and well known promises of Jesus include -

Eternal life and Salvation. Jesus promises that whoever believes in Him will never perish but have everlasting life, John (10; 28-29).

Jesus tells us in John, Chapter 14, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Believe in God and believe also in me. In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places. If it were not so, I would not have told you that I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, so that where I am, there you may be also.”

The Gift of the Holy Spirit.

In John, Chapter 14 as Jesus was about to leave His apostles He promised them that He would send a helper, the Holy Spirit, to guide them to all truth. He promised to be with us always until the end of time to guide, comfort and empower us.

“If you love me, you will keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father and He will give you another Advocate, to be with you forever. This is the Spirit of Truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, because he abides with you and he will be in you. The Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father

will send in my name, will teach you everything, and remind you of all that I have said to you.” John 14.15-31.

Courage to Witness

Jesus promised us that He would give us the exact words to witness for Him when facing trial or persecutions. He promised the Apostles and His followers supernatural power when the Holy Spirit would come upon them and this is happening very much today when so many are being baptized in the Holy Spirit. (Acts 1.8.).

Answered Prayer.

Jesus promises us that if we ask in His name and abide in His teachings, Our Heavenly Father will hear and answer our prayers. In Matthew’s Gospel, Chapter 7, Verse 7, Jesus tells us to “Ask and you will receive, seek and you will find, knock and the door will be opened to you.” God promises to listen and care for His children like a good father. We must bring our needs directly to God in prayer and persistence is the key, asking in faith, knowing and believing that we will receive His promise.

The Eucharist.

Jesus promises,

• “Whoever eats My flesh and drinks My blood has eternal life and I will raise him up on the last day.” (John 6.54)

• “Whoever eats My flesh and drinks My blood abides in Me and I in him.” (John 6.56)

• “Whoever comes to me shall not hunger and whoever believes in me shall never thirst” (John 6.36)

• “This is my blood which will be poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins” (Matt 26.28).

• “Whoever eats this bread will live forever.” (John 6. 51)

The Promises to us in “The Diary of Saint Faustina.”

Jesus made extraordinary promises to Saint Faustina regarding The Divine Mercy image, The Chaplet of Divine Mercy and Divine Mercy Sunday.

• The soul that venerates the image will not perish.

• Whoever recites the chaplet will receive great mercy at the hour of death.

• When the chaplet is said by the bedside of a dying person, God’s anger is placated and unfathomable mercy envelops the soul.

• Jesus promises the complete forgiveness of sins and punishment for any soul that goes to Confession and receives Holy Communion on Divine Mercy Sunday.

• A whole ocean of graces is poured out upon souls who approach the fount of His mercy on this feast.

• Whoever prays this chaplet will receive whatever they ask provided it is compatible with His Holy Will.

• The prayer that is answered most frequently is the prayer for the conversion of those who are far away from Him and not in a state of grace.

We have to know the many promises Jesus has made to us. We must believe them and claim them as they have all been won at a high price – by His death on the cross.