KILLARNEY ADVERTISER WK26 27.06.2025

"He's smiling down on me today"

Mayor of Killarney pays tribute to

The newly elected Mayor of Killarney has paid a fond tribute to his late father saying: “He’s smiling down on me today,” following his appointment.

The new Cathaoirligh and Leas-Cathaoirligh for the Municipal Districts in Kerry were elected at the respective Annual Meetings held at Áras an Chontae on Monday morning.

Cllr Martin O’Grady has become the third generation and fourth member of his family to hold the title of Mayor of Killarney, a role he described as both humbling and a blessing.

His grandfather John O’Grady, uncle Seán, and father Donal all served on the council before him, continuing a proud family legacy of public service.

Cllr O’Grady was nominated by Cllr Niall Botty O’Callaghan, which was seconded by Cllr Brendan Cronin.

Cllr O’Grady outlined several key priorities for his term as Mayor. These include increasing the availability of social and affordable housing for young families,

Cllr Grady has outlined the key issues he wants to be implemented during his 12-month tenure as the Mayor of the Killarney Municipal District.

"Coming in as the new Cathairleacht, I know that working alone and aloof from the rest will bring just minimalist progress but working together we can achieve great things. Without taking from what might emerge as a collective, it is important to outline what I see as the most important projects to progress,” he said.

• Social and Affordable Homes: Addressing the lack of social and affordable homes, noting it has been over two decades since Killarney offered Local Authority Affordable Homes. He highlighted

reducing planning restrictions for those seeking to build on family land, and advancing Phase 1 of the Derreen Sports Complex project. Fellow councillors congratulated Cllr O’Grady on his appointment and wished him every success in his new role.

Outgoing Mayor, Independent Cllr Maura Healy-Rae, described the position as both a huge achievement and honour. She said while it’s a busy and demanding role she expressed full confidence that Cllr O’Grady would rise to the challenge, adding that his late fa-

ther would be “charmed to see him in the chair.”

Cllr John O’Donoghue was elected as Leas-Cathaoirleach of the Killarney Municipal District. He was nominated by Cllr Brendan Cronin, with the nomination seconded by Cllr Maura Healy-Rae.

New mayor outlines his plans for the district

that many young families are above the threshold for social housing but cannot secure mortgages for average homes.

• Reduced Planning Restrictions: Seeking reduced restrictions on planning in rural areas to enable young families to build in their native townlands, aiming to counter emigration.

• N22 Farranfore Killarney Bypass: Tackling Killarney’s worsening traffic issues, particularly with the N22 Farranfore Killarney Bypass. He noted, "It’s great to see tourist coming in but the people of Killarney can’t move."

• Town Amenities: Increasing amenities, specifically calling for a much-needed community hub for both youth and retirees.

• Direen Site Development: Advocating for the completion of Phase 1 at the Direen Site and the progression of plans for Phase 2.

• Áras Phádraig Theatre: Supporting the construction of a theatre at the Áras Phádraig site.

• Pretty Polly Site Development: Aiming for the Pretty Polly Site to be developed into a Hospitality and Tourism College with campus accommodation.

• St Finian's Hospital Transformation: Seeking the transformation of St Finian's Hospital into suitable accommodation, medical, or educational facilities.

• Traffic and Parking Issues: Addressing the worsening traffic and parking issues within the town.

• Ambulance Restoration: Committing to seeking the restoration of Killarney's second ambulance, which was lost 13 years ago.

Cllr Grady also highlighted the Cork/Kerry Cancer Bus.

"I hope for continued support from this Council for the Cork/Kerry Cancer Bus, a charity I donate a percentage of my salary to since becoming an elected councillor. I want to commend each and every councilor along with the Director to Finance and Town Manager Angela McAllen for allocating funding each year to this wor-

thy cause."

He stressed the importance of promoting Killarney as a safe tourist destination, recognizing the National Park's scenery and the town's upkeep by staff and voluntary groups.

Cllr Grady concluded his acceptance speech by thanking his mother Julia, his late father Donal, his wife Emma, and his three children Amelia, Jack, and Rosie, along with all his family and friends for their ongoing support. He committed to his new role: "During my time as Cathaoirleach I'll wear the chain with honour and respect and commit to be hardworking, fair and treat everyone equal. I look forward to working with fellow councillors, management and staff across all departments of Kerry County Council for the betterment of Killarney Municipal District and most importantly the people we serve,” he said.

All seven councillors have now served as mayor.

Rewild Festival brings magic to the Gap of Dunloe

“Beimid ag caint, ag canadh, agus ag ceiliúradh faoin spéir.”We’ll be talking, singing, and celebrating under the sky.

A magical experience in the Gap of Dunloe awaits as Rewild Festival returns for another year.

The event, which is a day to celebrate wellness, will run on July 12 over the course of a full day.

Taking place in the Gap of Dunloe, it will run from Saturday at 12.30pm until 1pm on Sunday.

There are endless activities taking place which include house yoga, music, local food and a craft market which will run into Sunday afternoon.

Organisers of the event are inviting people to gather beneath the trees and stars for a day of reconnection, celebration and creative expression – all while leaving a light ecological footprint.

Sustainability will be at its core with reusable cups, free tent camping and regular free shuttle buses from Killarney available on the day.

Jiggy, who fuses Irish tradition with global beats, The Circus Ponies, Efa O’Neill, Emmet Condon and Shiels are among the musical line up.

The festival offers spaces for creativity, connection, talks and movements with festival go-ers being given the chance to enjoy workshops, sound baths, cacao ceremonies and Reiki sessions.

Fireside storytelling and songs are also on offer which will allow people to deepen their sense of community and connection.

There will also be a nature-themed dating app on offer that weekend as attendees can avail of Timber, an app developed by a group of local women.

The app will allow people to connect with the natural world around them as Timber invites users to match with plants instead of people – a great way to connect with nature!

An Autism-friendly area and physcare will also be available to provide a calm, supportive space for those who need it on the day.

Kevin Leahy is the organiser of the festival, and he promises an unmissable day of dancing, art, wild nature and many more surprises at the Gap of Dunloe.

West End premiere for Oscarwinning documentary on Gaza

The Oscar-winning documentary No Other Land will have its first Kerry screening at the West End School of Arts on July 3.

No Other Land shows the destruction happening in Masafer Yatta, a group of villages in the Southern West Bank in Palestine. The film aims to show what Palestinians are going through under Israeli occupation. It won Best Documentary at this year's Academy Awards in Los Angeles.

The event will include a wine and nibbles reception before the film. There are two screening times: 5:30pm and

7:30pm. Attendees can chat and mingle in the West End School before the documentary.

Sally MacMonagle, who recently visited Aida Refugee Camp in Bethlehem, will speak at the screenings.

Tickets cost €25.00. All money raised will go to Camp Breakerz Crew, a children's charity in Gaza. This group provides dance as a creative outlet for children. Camp Breakerz Crew also helps with food distribution in Nuseirat Camp and Deir-Al-Balah due to food shortages in Gaza caused by the Israeli blockade on aid.

“We

must use it to end killing in Gaza" : Kelly

Fossa-based Seán Kelly, MEP for Ireland South and Leader of Fine Gael in the European Parliament, has called for renewed international focus on ending the violence in Gaza, welcoming recent diplomatic momentum while urging all sides to put peace before politics.

“There is a window open right now, and we must use it,” said Kelly. “The ceasefire between Iran and Israel has created a vital opportunity to push forward serious negotiations in Gaza. But we cannot waste it. The killing must stop — not tomorrow, not next week, now.”

Kelly expressed deep concern over the toll the ongoing conflict has taken on civilians. “The suffering of the Palestinian people is intolerable. Every day without a ceasefire means more lives lost, more children buried, more futures destroyed. We must be honest about that. This is not just a political crisis — it's a human one.” Kelly stressed the importance of turning words into results. “There’s talk of momentum, of hope, of fresh dialogue.

That’s welcome. But hope without action is hollow. What we need is commitment — from all sides — to sit down, talk, and reach a deal that puts human life first.”

“Gaza has known too much grief. Ending the bloodshed is not weakness — it’s moral responsibility,” he continued. “We need a real, sustained ceasefire. One that allows humanitarian aid in, hostages out, and political solutions to begin.”

Kelly also noted the broader implications for regional and global stability. “We cannot separate this conflict from the wider threats to international peace. A secure, peaceful Gaza is in everyone’s interest — Israeli, Palestinian, European, global. Continued violence only breeds more resentment, more instability, and more extremism.” He concluded by urging international leaders to act decisively. “Let this be the turning point. Let us prioritise peace over pride, and dialogue over destruction. The people of Gaza, and indeed the people of the region, deserve no less.”

Kids DINEFREE*

T OWN TALK

Killarney Golf and Fishing Club will host the European Amateur Team Championship on July 8 -12.

This six-man team event features top amateur golfers representing their countries.

The par-72 Killeen course, which has previously hosted the Irish Open six times, will be the venue for Europe’s leading amateur teams next month.

Mark Kennelly, CEO of Golf Ireland, siad: "We are all looking forward to

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Killarney to host European Amateur Golf Championship

hosting these brilliant championships back in Ireland again in 2025."

The 2025 European Amateur Team Championship will see 16 qualified countries compete. The format includes two rounds of stroke play followed by three rounds of match play to

decide the European champion.

The tournament has a history of attracting notable participants, including Rory McIlroy, and Shane Lowry.

This event was last held in Ireland in 1997 at Portmarnock, where Spain won.

For Killarney, 2025 will be the second

time it has hosted the championship, 50 years after Scotland lifted the trophy there.

The Irish team will aim to use home advantage to end a 17-year wait for a gold medal, their last victory being in 2008 in Italy.

ANAM Arts & Cultural Centre

launches new music competition

ANAM Arts & Cultural Centre is launching its first Battle of the Bands this summer.

This four-week competition is open to musicians of all genres and skill levels. The event will take place every Friday at 7pm, starting July 11, at the ANAM Arts & Cultural Centre on East Avenue. Each Friday, three bands or solo artists will perform a 20-minute set.

The competition cycle will consist of three weeks of qualifiers.

Special guest judges will select a week-

ly winner, with the audience deciding in the event of a tie.

These three weekly winners will advance to the grand final in the fourth week, where an overall champion will be crowned.

Musicians interested in participating can text "ANAM" along with their name or band name to 085 849 6667 to apply.

Battle of the Bands at ANAM is supported by Kerry County Council Arts Office and Kerry Community Youth Services (KCYS).

Cyclists brave the rain for Down Syndrome Kerry charity cycle

Despite grey skies and impending rain, spirits soared and wheels kept turning as the Down Syndrome Kerry Charity Cycle rolled out from St Oliver’s National School, Ballycasheen, on Sunday last.

Cyclists of all levels came together in a powerful display of community and generosity raising vital funds for services that support individuals with Down Syndrome. 140 participants braved the weather to complete the challenging 95km loop through Kenmare, Blackwater and Molls Gap, the scenic 75km ride via Ladies View, and the family-friendly 25km route around the picturesque Muckross and Dinis trails.

“The weather may have been tough, but our cyclists and volunteers were tougher,” said John O’Connor, Chair-

person of Down Syndrome Kerry.

“Every kilometre cycled today meant more access to speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, job coaching, and other critical support for our members.

“A special thanks goes out to our generous sponsors. We are very grateful to our volunteers, marshals, mechanical support team and of course, every single cyclist who pedalled with heart and determination. We as a branch are very grateful to everyone who gave of their time to support the branch.”

Future of St Columbanus’ site remains uncertain

The future use of the existing St Columbanus building remains unclear, with no commitment from the HSE regarding its use for respite services.

This follows a parliamentary question submitted by Kerry TD Danny Healy-Rae. Deputy Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health if either the District Hospital or St. Columbanus’ could be considered for respite services once the new Community Nursing Unit opens and what the overall plans for the site were.

In its response, the HSE stated that construction of the new Community Nursing Unit is largely complete, with an estimated completion date during Q3 2025. The new unit's operational timeline depends on handover from the PPP Company and subsequent HIQA registration, expected to take about six weeks after

St Paul's complete double signing ahead of new season

St Paul's Men's National League team has announced two professional player signings ahead of the upcoming season.

Newly appointed head Coach Luke O'Hea has moved quickly to strengthen the squad.

Point guard Steve Kelly joins St Paul's after a season at Edinboro College, Pennsylvania, where he scored 385 points, averaging 13.7 points and four assists per game.

Kelly, who is noted for his defensive pressure, previously played for Clarion University and is from Whitman, Massachusetts.

Samuel Grant, a 6ft 9in player, will add

height to the St Paul's lineup.

He has represented England at Under 15 level and Great Britain at Under 16, Under 18, and Under 20 levels.

Despite his size, Grant has an effective outside shot, often contributing over 20 points per game.

He spent the last two college seasons at the University of Sioux Falls and prior to that, played for the Florida Institute of Technology.

A native of Wellingborough, he previously worked with Kerry native Alan Keane during his time at Reading.

Both Steve Kelly and Samuel Grant are expected to arrive in Killarney before the new season begins on the first weekend of October.

handover.

Following registration, a phased transfer of residents from St Columbanus and Killarney Community Hospital to the new facility is planned.

Regarding the current site, the HSE confirmed that a new Minor Injury Unit for Kerry is planned for Killarney Community Hospital campus.

However, the HSE Estates department, in conjunction with service management and Public Health, is currently reviewing the space requirements. The outcome of this review will inform any decision on the future use of the remaining available space on the campus.

Deputy Healy-Rae expressed disappointment with the HSE's reply, stating that "no clarity was provided on further respite services which is simply not good enough with the demand there is for respite."

Run sponsored by the Parents' Association, bouncy castles, pizza parties, and a pyjama day.

Killarney sprinter joins groundbreaking research project

Killarney sprint star and Olympic hopeful Sarah Leahy is participating in new research at the University of Limerick that aims to give Irish sprinters a competitive edge at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.

Elite Irish sprinters are currently involved in a study at Lero, a leading software research centre at the University of Limerick.

The research seeks to determine the effectiveness of high-tech super spike sprint shoes, potentially boosting their chances for success.

Lero researchers at UL’s Sport and Human Performance Research Centre have partnered with DANU, an innovative Irish sports analytics company. They are recruiting athletes to use DANU’s wearable smart socks technology to capture and analyse athlete-specific data, focusing on the bio-

mechanical assessment of super spike shoes.

Professor Ian Kenny said the research will clarify if athletes choose super spikes for sponsorship or for their technological benefits and injury prevention.

"Using real-world metrics on the track and not the lab, we will gain key insights into the benefits of DANU’s technology, super spikes, and their impact on our elite sprinters – gaining a fraction of a second could give an Irish athlete a podium finish and a medal," he said.

Tour de Munster to arrive on August 9

The 25th annual Tour de Munster charity cycle will pass through Killarney on August 9.

The silver anniversary edition of the Tour de Munster will run from Thursday, August 7, to Sunday, August 10. Amateur cyclists will complete a 600km route across all six counties of Munster to raise funds for the Munster branches of Down Syndrome Ireland (DSI).

Cycling legend Seán Kelly officially launched this year's Tour at St Mary’s Cathedral in Limerick.

This year marks 25 years for the charity cycle. Since starting in 2001, the Tour de Munster has raised over €5 million for DSI's Munster branches, supporting children and adults with Down syndrome in the region.

Funds raised from this year’s Tour will go

towards essential services provided by DSI’s Munster branches. These services include Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and employment support.

John O’Connor from Down Syndrome Kerry spoke at the launch.

He said, "We’re looking forward to welcoming the Tour back to Kerry again this August. It’s always a highlight of the year for our members and families. Having had the support of Tour de Munster for the past 15 years has made a real difference." O'Connor added that with the Tour's help, 31 young adults are working shifts at Deenagh Lodge Café, where they anticipate welcoming the Tour in August. To support the Tour de Munster, donations can be made at \<-block class="ng-star-inserted"

Summer market launches at Arbutus Hotel Killarney

Killarney’s new summer market is now open at the rear of the Arbutus Hotel.

This market, an extension of the Christmas in Killarney Festival concept, will run every Sunday, starting on June 29. for the duration of the summer.

Claire Lyne, co-owner of Killarney Markets and Solzie Skincare & Candles, along with Laura Corlett, are behind the initiative.

Lyne said, “As Killarney is basically the tourist capital of Kerry, I thought it was shocking that there were no markets here for our local businesses. As a small business owner, I decided that it would be my duty not just for Killarney but for all the local business owners in my area, that they would deserve an opportunity to buy and sell their products.”

The market will feature a rotating selection of vendors each week and will include entertainment.

Kerry Icons graffiti art exhibition comes to Government Buildings

The Government Buildings, New Road Killarney, will host Paul Egan’s ‘Kerry Icons’ exhibition from June 26 to September 23.

Paul Egan is a 22-year-old visual artist and designer.

A self-taught artist, he did not pursue the traditional college route, instead adopting his own methods of creating artworks. Paul is best known for his graffiti realism artworks, which he creates by using aerosol spray paint on an array of recycled materials.

Paul is highly motivated to create works that resonate emotionally with viewers, while also focusing on the importance of the individual.

This collection, on display in Killarney, consists of 50 art works in a form of graffiti, realism print.

The work consists of eight stencils of varying intricacies. These were sprayed onto repurposed vinyl records, recovered from various charity organisations throughout Tralee.

Paul has created a near photorealistic portrait of each individual person, his take on some of Kerry’s own ‘record breakers’!

Paul said: “The collection is made up of beloved storytellers such as Peig Sayers, John B. Keane, and Christie Hennessy; sporting icons such as Kieran Donaghy, Mary Jo Curran, and Mick O'Connell; award-winning actors such as Jessie Buckley, Tim Murphy, and Michael Fassbender; and historic changemakers such as Sister Consilio, Daniel O'Connell, and Thomas Ashe, to name but a few of those that make up the culture, history, and

17th International Short Story Conference in Killarney

Killarney welcomed a global array of literary talent and enthusiasts as The 17th International Conference on the Short Story in English, directed by Dr Maurice A. Lee, successfully concluded its proceedings at the Gleneagle from June 17 to 21.

This biennial conference, which originated in Paris in 1988, brought together a diverse group of writers, scholars, and readers from across the globe, all united by their shared focus on the short story. The 2025 conference explored the

theme of 'How it Works: The Uniqueness of the Short Story.'

Delegates also tackled the complex challenges involved in translating stories into English.

Following in the footsteps of past conferences, this year’s event featured an impressive lineup.

Authors writing in English from Ireland, the UK, the US, Canada, Australia, the Caribbean, South Africa, India, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia participated.

Readings from acclaimed Irish writers Kevin Barry, William Wall and Nuala O'Connor also took place.

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makeup of the Kerry that we know and love today.”

Through this collection Paul aims to honour those who have ‘cemented their name in history while also shining a light on some forgotten heroes who have left an irrefutable mark on the world we live in today.

Each personality has been chosen to highlight all aspects of our culture while also showing the current youth how many influential grass roots icons have developed and flourished from their own hometowns.

On a previous viewing of the collection, one viewer enthused that, ‘It is not only a collection of artworks but more a symbol, an embodiment of the Kerry spirit that those outside of Kerry desperately crave!’

“The Department is delighted to host this exhibition’, said Michael Moore, “It is an impressive body of art that shines focus on legacies, stories, and the cultural significance of so many Kerry people that have influenced lives and culture nationally and internationally.”

The exhibition opens on June 27 at 6pm, at the Department Building, New Road, Killarney and is open to everyone to attend.

The exhibition in Killarney is supported by the Department of Culture, Communications and Sport and Kerry County Council, and is open to the public Monday to Friday 9am-5pm. All are welcome.

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Extra trains confirmed for Kerry All-Ireland Quarter Final

Iarnród Éireann has confirmed additional train capacity and a special return service for Kerry supporters traveling to Dublin for the All-Ireland Quarter Final against Armagh this Sunday.

An additional capacity has been added to the 07.10 Tralee to Heuston train on Sunday morning. This will allow more fans to reach Croke Park for the match. A special return train from Heuston to Tralee will depart at 19.20 on Sunday evening, pro-

viding a dedicated travel option for supporters returning after the game.

Kerry Fianna Fáil TD Michael Cahill welcomed the announcement. "This is a hugely welcome development and a direct response to the concerns raised by Kerry people throughout the county," said Deputy Cahill.

The decision follows several days of frustration among fans who struggled to secure return train tickets, as the only previously scheduled evening service was fully booked.

Raheen NS SNA to skydive for school pitch upgrade

Gráinne Lenihan, a Special Needs Assistant at Raheen National School in Headford, will undertake a charity skydive on August 30th to raise funds for the school.

The skydive aims to support a 'Pitch Upgrade' project, which also includes the development of a community walking track.

The skydive will involve a tandem jump from 10,000 feet, with a 5,000-foot freefall, and will take place in Co. Offaly. Raheen National School, its parents association, and the local community are

planning to improve the drainage of the school's training field and add a community walking track.

This will allow the field to be used yearround by students and the wider school community for outdoor activities, sports, and play.

The Department of Education is not funding this project, so the school is

Lenihan with Raheen National School principal ahead of the Charity Skydive.

Niall O Donnchú and the O’Donoghue family of Gneeveguilla AC honouring the memory of their Dad, Tom Joe O’Donoghue, at a special unveiling of a memorial bench at Gneeveguilla GAA grounds. Tom Joe gave tirelessly to every organisation, and founded Gneeveguilla Athletic Club with his brother Paddy in 1978. He gave his life to organising, coaching and promoting athletic events across the county. Tom Joe was the heart and soul of Gneeveguilla and the entire Sliabh Luachra area. His grandmother, Katie Donnelly, was the sole survivor of the Moving Bog Disaster of Knocknageeha, in 1897. The memorial bench was made by master craftsman Stephen McCarthy, who is married to Tom Joe’s granddaughter, Heather. Photo: Valerie O'Sullivan

relying on community support, local expertise, donations, and fundraising efforts to create a safe and usable space for the children.

Gráinne said: "On August 30 this year I will complete a Charity Skydive in support of our school to help raise much needed funds for a 'Pitch Upgrade' and while doing so building a 'Community Walking Track'. It is a wonderful school and community, I really want to help." www.idonate.ie/fundraiser/GrainneLenihan

staff and pupils

Bridge Congress to become annual event following inaugural success

The inaugural Killarney Bridge Congress, at the Castlerosse Park Resort, was such a success that organizers now intend to make it an annual event.

The June 13 to 15 congress surpassed expectations, drawing participants from across the UK, Northern Ireland, Australia, and a strong contingent of national and local players.

Marie Moloney, President of Killarney Bridge Congress, said: “The Congress was a huge success even surpassing all expectations. Covid saw Bridge Congresses all over Ireland and England diminish with many avid players resorting to online Bridge. While bridge clubs have returned to the tables many congresses have taken much longer to get up and running again and are now slowly resuming,” she added, “The last Congress that was held in Killarney was the South of Munster Congress, which was held annually in the Lake Hotel, but this congress has not returned since Covid hit and has sadly folded. This left a

void in Killarney and was the reason that a committee was set up to reintroduce a Congress.”

She noted the attendance and participation of Catherine Byrne, President of the CBAI, and Ciaran Broadbery, South of Munster President.

The congress offered competitions for various grades of players, from Masters to Novices, all overseen by International Tournament Director Diarmuid Redden. Participants included Catherine Byrne, President of the CBAI, and Ciaran Broadbery, South of Munster President. Several local players were among the winners in the different competitions. The organisers extended their thanks to all sponsors for enabling the introduction of this Congress to Killarney and for bringing many visitors to the town. They also expressed their thanks to the management and staff of the Castlerosse Park Resort for hosting the Congress. The committee has already begun planning for the 2026 Congress, with aims for it to be an even larger event.

“ Tá pobal foghlama agu s tacaíochta praiticiúil MTU ag cabhrú liom mo thodhchaí san innealtóireacht shibhialta a thógáil - agus daoine eile a spreagadh lei s an rud céanna a dhéanamh.”

U2's The Edge among new Irish citizens

U2 guitarist The Edge, whose real name is David Howell-Evans, was among over 7,500 people granted Irish citizenship this week at the INEC.

The ceremonies took place on Monday and Tuesday this week

Applicants from over 143 countries and across all 32 counties on the island of Ireland made a declaration of fidelity and loyalty to the State to become Irish citizens.

Seven ceremonies were held over the two days. Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, Jim O’Callaghan, was joined by Minister of State for Migration, Colm Brophy, and Minister of State for International Law, Law Reform and Youth Justice, Niall Collins.

“Today’s ceremony was very moving, the room was full of so many people, everyone from different backgrounds, with different stories. It was a privilege to be a part of it and to experience the collective joy as we all became citizens together. I moved to Ireland with my parents as a baby, so it’s not a stretch to say that this is long overdue! I have always felt Irish, Ireland will always be home to me and I’m so grateful for that,” said The Edge.

Ahead of the ceremonies, Minister O’Callaghan said:: “This ceremony marks an important milestone in the lives of those receiving Irish citizenship. For each new

citizen it signifies a deep connection to Ireland, its values, and its people. Ireland welcomes our new citizens as full members of society, and their contributions will undoubtedly strengthen the fabric of our nation. I encourage all new citizens to continue to actively engage in their communities so that, together, we can build a thriving society.”

Minister Brophy congratulated the new citizens, adding: “Migration plays an essential role in Ireland’s development. It strengthens our economy, enriches our cultural diversity, and deepens our sense of solidarity. We are proud to welcome each new citizen as valued members of our communities.”

Judge Paddy McMahon was the Presiding Officer for the ceremonies. administered the Declaration of Fidelity to the Irish Nation and Loyalty to the State, where new citizens commit to observing Irish laws and respecting its democratic values.

The Citizenship Division has seen a significant increase in applications, processing over 20,000 in 2023 and nearly 31,000 in 2024, up from around 12,000 annually just over two years ago.

and now living in Port Laoise, who received their Irish Citizenship at a special ceremony at

Colm O'Brien cast as Scarecrow in Wizard of Oz

Killarney audiences will see a familiar face on stage this August as local actor Colm O’Brien prepares to play the Scarecrow in Siamsa Tíre’s summer musical, The Wizard of Oz

Rehearsals are well underway for the much-anticipated production, which features a talented cast and chorus of 50 adults and 70 children from across Kerry following successful open auditions.

This family musical promises to be a highlight of the summer season, showcasing local performers.

Performances are scheduled from August 6 to 10 at 7.30pm, with an additional Sunday matinee at 2.00pm.

Following last year's successful summer musical, the same creative team returns, expertly led by director Oliver Hurley, with Sorcha O’Connor as Musical Director and Justin Walsh as Choreographer.

Abby Cronin takes the lead role of Dorothy, supported by a strong principal cast including Conor O’Sullivan (Cowardly

Lion), David Lynch (Tin Man), Roisin Sugrue (Glinda the Good Witch), Katrina Galvin (Wicked Witch), Mike Lynch (Wizard of Oz), Diarmuid Barry (Emerald City Guard), and Caroline Spillane (Aunt Em).

Angela Ryan Whyte said: "Following the success of last year’s summer musical, we’re adding even more magic this year as we follow the Yellow Brick Road! We had a fantastic response to auditions and are delighted to once again showcase the very best of Kerry’s talent in this joyful, inclusive family production. The Wizard of Oz brings high-quality entertainment to Tralee and offers families a wonderful opportunity to share the magic of live theatre."

Tickets are available now at www.siamsatire.com.

Artist Jack Lanigan to release new single 'Black Friday' this Friday

Killarney hip-hop artist, Jack Lanigan, will release his new single and accompanying video, Black Friday, on June 27.

The highly anticipated track will be available to stream and download across major platforms including Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube.

Described as a vibrant summer anthem, Black Friday promises to be a fresh sound from the Killarney artist. The music video,

34 no shows for Killarney driving tests so far this year

34 people failed to show up for their driving test in Killarney in the first half of this year.

Driving tests cost €85 per person, meaning that the Road Safety Authority collected just under €3,000 for no shows in Killarney alone. These figures were released in findings by the Irish In-

dependent earlier in the week. Nationally, 3,000 learner drivers failed to attend their driving test. Tralee featured in the top 20 as they ranked 18th on the list with 54 missed appointments. The figures come as the RSA recently revealed that they are on target to reduce the staggering driving test wait times across the country (See page 42).

Local charity organises course to help family carers in Killarney

The Alzheimer Society of Ireland is organising a course in Killarney to help family carers to learn more about supporting and caring for family members with the disease.

The course will take place in the Killarney Plaza hotel, and it will run every Wednesday for 6 weeks from 7pm to 9.30pm, starting on September 10.

The course is led by expert ASI tutors and will provide practical skills such as understanding dementia progression, improving communication and managing daily routines.

It is estimated that 2,429 people are living with dementia in Kerry.

For those who are unable to attend in-person there will also be an online course titled “Home-Based Care: Home

Based Education” starting on September 8.

Thérèse Shannon, lead tutor with the ASI’s learning and development department described the care for a person living with dementia as both rewarding and challenging. She said “This in-person course in Kerry offers family carers practical tools, insights, and a space for connection. It’s designed to help carers feel more confident and less isolated by covering key areas such as communication, daily routines, and responding to behaviours.”

Registration is required to attend, and it is a free course. To apply or learn more, people are being asked to contact familycarertraining@alzheimer.ie or by visiting the website.

Shuttle bus and Park and Ride plans on council agenda

which was filmed in both Dublin and his hometown, is set to provide a visual treat for his growing fanbase. Listeners can expect to hear Jack Lanigan's signature talent in contemporary hip-hop production, featuring engaging beat and flow transitions.

Lanigan has been releasing music since 2024, quickly building a presence in the Irish music scene. His previous hit, ‘Don't Understand’ has had an impressive 8,000 streams on Spotify.

The proposed shuttle bus service for Killarney Town and the development of park and ride facilities are set to be discussed at Friday’s meeting of the Killarney Municipal District members.

The session will take place today (Friday, June 27), in Killarney Town Hall. Councillor John O'Donoghue is expected to seek an update on the proposed shuttle bus service for Killarney Town.

Cllr O'Donoghue will also ask if the

Council has identified any suitable locations on the outskirts of the town for operating a park and ride system. Separately, Councillor B. Cronin will raise questions concerning the park and ride facilities.

Given Kerry County Council’s previous references to developing such facilities on approaches to Killarney to ease traffic congestion, Cronin will ask Council engineers to confirm if there will be a dedicated bus access lane available to and from these proposed facilities.

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Firies GAA to host Donie McCarthy Memorial Golf Classic

Firies GAA Club is preparing for a major event with the launch of The Donie McCarthy Memorial Golf Classic.

The classic will take place on Saturday, July 19, at Maine Valley Members Golf Club in Killorglin.

The event, a champagne golf classic, will apply GUI handicaps, with a maximum adjusted handicap of 24 for men and 36 for ladies. Prizes include a four-ball at Tralee Golf Club and Dromoland Castle Golf Club for the top team, nearest the pin, and longest drive.

Michael Quirke, a former player and member of the event committee, spoke about the significance of the event and Donie McCarthy's legacy to the club. "Donie epitomised the concept of a club stalwart," Quirke said. "His love of both the game and the development of the club was limitless. His energy towards the development of young players is truly visible today in Firies. Donie got great satisfaction from seeing young players improve, and as they got older and

achieve success with Firies. He would be a very proud man to see our second pitch in Ballinvarrig finally come to fruition.

During Donie’s successful playing days, he helped lead Firies to secure the O’Sullivan Cup title in 1979 and went onto manage and coach many Firies teams down through the years. Since his untimely passing in November 2022, the club has aspired to acknowledge his legacy."

Family, friends, and former club mates of Donie gathered recently to officially launch the golf classic in Pairc Eamonn. Firies GAA acknowledged L&M Construction, of New York City, as the primary event sponsor for the second year.

Teams of four can enter for €200. Interested parties can contact Brendan Quirke at 087 9172854, Dermot O’Connor at 087 6958610, or Michael Quirke at 087 6683699

Exploring Paris twinning and Euro Disney collaborations

Killarney Town Twinning Association (KTTA) is exploring opportunities for collaboration with the Santeny, Paris Twinning Association, including potential links with Euro Disney.

Seynabou Diop, President of the Santeny, Paris Twinning Association, was recently hosted by KTTA to continue discussions on potential benefits in education, culture, sport, and tourism for both areas.

Sean Counihan, KTTA Chairperson, said: "We see great opportunity for Killarney clubs and groups in this collaboration

Pig's Lane unveils new cocktail menu

Killarney's acclaimed underground speakeasy and whiskey parlour, Pig’s Lane, has launched its highly anticipated new cocktail menu, ‘Legends & Libations’.

Tucked beneath the town’s streets, the venue now offers a collection that blends masterful mixology with rich Irish folklore, creating a unique drinking experience for the summer season.

The ambitious new menu features 15 signature cocktails, each drawing inspiration from the legends, landscapes, and

lore unique to Killarney.

Developed over a year, the collection aims to capture ancient spirits, misty lakes, and timeless myths within each glass.

From tales of O’Donoghue rising over Lough Léin to the adventures of Fionn Mac Cumhaill, the menu brings centuries of storytelling to life.

Each cocktail fuses art, flavour, and story, celebrating Kerry’s wild magic. Drinks like ‘Legend of Muckross Abbey’, ‘Brother Cudda’, and ‘O’Donoghue’s Departure’

directly reference local folklore. The menu also includes cult classics,like the ‘Devil’s Punchbowl’, and a range of mocktails.

Owner, Gemma Ring said: "Our new menu has been a real labour of love. As a team, we’ve put tremendous thought into the finer details, creating a deep synergy between the flavours, the stories, and the design of each cocktail. Seeing it all come to life has filled us with immense pride, and we can't wait for our customers to experience it."

given its close proximity to Euro Disney etc."

Seynabou’s daughter Maelle Diop is currently undertaking a two-week internship with Kerry Community Youth Service (KCYS).

During her visit, Seynabou explored options for bringing a group of young people from Santeny to Killarney in October. Santeny is located 20 kilometres from central Paris and is close to Euro Disney. KTTA believes continued engagement with the Santeny twinning association will enhance Killarney's international visibility.

Summer Promotion

Enjoy a complimentary glass of wine with all main courses in Fig this July T&Cs apply

The Heights Hotel celebrates their 50 year anniversary this June

Have you ever marked a special moment at The Heights Hotel, or know someone who has?

We’d love to hear your stories and see your photos.

From the heartwarming to the unforgettable, help us celebrate five decades of memories as we curate our 50 Years Exhibition in Killarney.

Share your stories: sean@killarneyheights.ie or call 0646631158

Introducing a new casual dining experience in the heart of Killarney Food served daily from 12.30-9pm

our menu and book online at www.killarneyroyal.ie

Muckross House plays host to its American twin

The jewel in Killarney’s tourism crown, Muckross House and Gardens, played host to some very special visitors when a delegation from its twin residence, Filoli Country House in California, also known as the Bourn-Roth Estate, spent a day in Killarney National Park.

The 26-strong group of Filoli friends and donors, led by President and CEO Kara Newport, travelled from the US to visit the Gardens of Ireland last week and, on Thursday, they enjoyed a day-long visit to William Bourn’s former Killarney residence which inspired the Filoli project.

Set on 16 acres of formal gardens surrounded by a 654-acre estate, Filoli is a historical landmark in California listed on the National Register of Historic Places in the US. It was built between 1915 and 1917 for William Bowers Bourn II and his wife, Agnes.

Around that time, Bourn regularly took his family to visit Europe and while on an Atlantic crossing in 1906, his daugh-

ter Maud met Arthur Rose Vincent, from Cloonlara in Co Clare.

They were married four years later and Bourn purchased Muckross House and its surrounding 11,000 acres, on the Lakes of Killarney, for their daughter and new son-in-law and immediately began plans to develop the gardens.

The Bourns travelled frequently to Ireland to visit their beloved daughter and soon fell in love with the local landscape. William’s affection for his daughter and Killarney was so strong that he decided to build a Californian home reminiscent of his daughter’s Killarney estate. They commissioned the construction of the Georgian style Filoli Country House

and they engaged the highly acclaimed Willis Polk as the principal architect with instructions to use Muckross House as a model.

Nestled at the edge of towering oak and redwood-forests in the coastal foothills, just 30 miles south of San Francisco, there are amazing similarities between the 43-room stately residence and the house at Muckross.

It served as one of their residences from 1917 until the time of both William and Agnes Bourn’s deaths in 1936. The estate was sold the following year to William P Roth and Lurline Matson Roth, heiress to the Matson Navigation Company, and in 1975 they donated the estate in its entirety to the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

The Filoli estate operates as a private, non-profit organisation with its own board of governors, staff and volunteers and it attracts in the region of 400,000 visitors per year.

It has been the set of a number of Hollywood films and, most famously, it was the mansion seen from the air in the opening credits of the smash hit television drama series Dynasty

Like Muckross House, Filoli is run by a Board of Trustees with a very significant National Parks input. The Trustees of Muckross House are a not-for-profit charity organisation which runs the enterprises in order to preserve the crafts and to preserve and maintain the history, heritage and folklife of Kerry. All funding generated on site is spent on achieving those goals as well as on the maintenance of the house and on enhancing the visitor experience for visitors.

The group visiting Filoli’s twin residence in Muckross – joined by the bond that was William Bourn – was formally welcomed by Muckross House Trustee Sandra Dunlea and Denis Reidy along with Pat Dawson of the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

They enjoyed a tour of the historic house accompanied by head guide Anne Tangney, a private viewing of the amazing art on show with library and research staff, a trip around the magnificently manicured gardens and a visit to Muckross Traditional Farm with head gardener Gerry Murphy.

Summer

YOGA & BRUNCH

Yoga with Kelly from KellyKaliYoga followed by Three-Course Brunch

- 1 Hour Guided Yoga - Prosecco & Smoothies - 3 Course Brunch - Experience Wellness Talks: Self-Care & Burnout

SUNDAY, JULY 13TH

Start time: 11am Price: €45pp

Tickets are available to purchase at 064 6638000 or events@greatsouthernkillarney.com

SUMMER MUS IC CLASSES at Killarney School of Music

Also taking requests for September 2025

SUMMER MUSIC CLASSES

You can now enrol for Music Classes running over the Summer. We are offering two short terms: Summer Term 1: Commences 1st July (5 weekly classes) • Summer Term 2: Commences 5th August (4 weekly classes) Classes Available In: Also taking requests for September 2025 Places limited, so early requests will be prioritised.

Accordion, Concertina, Banjo, Bodhrán, Fiddle, Mandolin, Tin Whistle, Singing, Voice Training, Acoustic Guitar, Electric Guitar, Piano, Jazz Piano, Ukulele, Folk/Ballad Singing, Music Theory... and more.

A deposit of €50 per student will secure a place. Places limited.

Please ring the school office to book places Tel. 064-6637598 | See our website for

and prices www.killarneyschoolofmusic.com

It was a project very close to his heart during his high-profile political life and now his name will be forever associated with it.

The landmark Barraduff Bridge – on the busy road from Killarney to Mallow – has been dedicated to the memory of colourful Kerry TD Jackie Healy-Rae who campaigned long and hard for a new structure to be built there.

The long-awaited replacement bridge, located at what had been a notorious accident blackspot, was close to the top of the no-nonsense Independent TD’s famous €100 million deal, agreed with the then Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern, in return for his support after the 2007 general election.

It is understood that the Kilgarvan politician had initially sought €4 million for a new super bridge but Healy-Rae later agreed to the existing bridge being widened and the road realigned at a considerably reduced cost of €1.5 million.

The new structure, which crosses over the Owneycree River and was unveiled in 2011, now has a plaque dedicated to the politician with the trademark tartan peaked cap and it has been described as a fitting tribute shortly after the 10th anniversary of his passing last December.

Fittingly, the honour of unveiling the specially inscribed memorial on Thursday evening fell to Jackie Healy-Rae’s granddaughter, Maura, who was officiating at one of her last engagements as Cathaoirleach of Killarney Municipal District Council.

It was she that first suggested the bridge

Jackie Healy-Rae's bridge described as a fitting tribute

dedication and the proposal received unanimous backing from her Killarney Municipal District Council colleagues.

“This plaque and the dedication of this bridge serves to recognise Jackie’s contribution as an elected public representative over a period of time that spanned 40 years,” Cllr Healy-Rae said.

She recalled her grandfather as being straight talking, charismatic, witty, colourful, shrewd and serious when the situation demanded but, above all else, he had an ability to connect with people, his constituents trusted him, and he treated their concerns or problems as his own. “It is very difficult to encapsulate his

political career and the contribution he made to this area, and indeed the county, but I guess the greatest compliment that can be paid to Jackie is that when he achieved the unimaginable in getting elected to Dáil Éireann in 1997, he never forgot the people that put him there.

“He demanded and ensured funding was provided for key pieces of infrastructure in Kerry which he believed had been neglected – this bridge being an example of such,” Cllr Healy-Rae added.

She said many criticised Jackie for the famous list of projects and schemes he presented in return for government support but when asked towards the end of his career if he would have done anything different in this respect, Jackie replied:

‘No, I’d do a hell of a lot more of the same’.

“That was a key attribute of his – he meant what he said and said what he meant. It didn’t matter to him what the media or his political opponents said if he felt he was doing right by his constituents.”

The Healy-Rae family and supporters were out in force for the unveiling with Minister of State Michael and Deputy Danny both celebrating their father’s great legacy.

Also in attendance were outgoing Mayor of Kerry, Cllr Breandán Fitzgerald, Killarney Municipal District Manager Angela McAllen and Killarney Municipal District Engineer John Ahern.

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The Ring of Kerry Charity Cycle committee are asking for your co-operation and assistance with parking and access to the town on the weekend of the 4th July & 5th July. This is the biggest fund raising event in Killarney and we really do appreciate your patience and assistance.

Please be advised that the lower side of New Street Car Park will be closed from 7am Friday 4th July until midnight on Saturday 5th July.

Alternative car parking will be available for short stays and cars only at the Cathedral field, entrance on Port Road (with the kind permission of St. Brendans Trust).

FREE Parking for cyclists will be provided at Daffodil Field, Cleeney, Tralee Road (kind permission of Micheál O’Shea) and the Old Rugby Field off the Killarney

Bypass (kind permission of Kerry County Council) from 5am to 8pm, Saturday 5th July. All cyclists are being asked to use this facility to ensure smooth traffic flow and ease congestion during this time.

ROAD CLOSURES KILLARNEY TOWN

Saturday 5th July, Mission Road will be closed to traffic from 5am to 9am and 11.30am to 8pm and Beech Road will be closed to traffic from 5am to 9am and 12 noon to 8pm. Please obey the stewards and follow the extensive diversion routes. For full details on all intended road closures associated with this Event please go to www.kerrycoco.ie/ roadsmain/road-closures

Thank you again for your co-operation in securing the success of this Charity Event.

Cullina NS celebrates sixth class graduation

Cullina National School's Sixth Class pupils marked their graduation with a ‘Celebration Walk’ recently. Students displayed excitement as they prepared for their transition to secondary school. The graduation acknowledged their time at Cullina National School.

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BY

DANNY CASEY

Astellas enhances operations at Tralee and Killorglin sites

The IDA has welcomed the commitment by Astellas, one of Japan’s largest life sciences companies and a leading developer and manufacturer of pharmaceutical products globally, to deliver a series of significant investments across its Irish operations.

These investments, amounting to a total of €129m, over the next three years, reinforce the company’s long-term commitment to Ireland as a strategic hub for its global manufacturing, research, and development activities. The investments are supported by the Irish Government through IDA Ireland.

Speaking from Tokyo where he met with members of the Astellas senior leadership team, Mr. Rao Mantri, Chief Manufacturing Officer and Mr. Yusuke Ishii, President of Astellas Ireland, Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke stated: “This commitment by Astellas highlights Ireland’s role in the global life sciences sector. Our ongoing investment in education, infrastructure, and innovation continues to create the optimum environment for companies to thrive. Astellas’ decision to grow its footprint in both Kerry and Dublin demonstrates the strength of Ireland’s offering and our commitment to supporting en-

80,000 workers needed to meet housing and infrastructure goals away Home

Ireland faces a significant hurdle in addressing its housing crisis and fulfilling ambitious infrastructure plans, with a severe shortage of skilled labour.

According to the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI), Ireland requires approximately 80,000 additional workers in the construction sector to meet its targets.

The ESRI's latest Quarterly Economic Commentary highlights a critical need for about 40,000 more construction workers if the government aims to achieve its target of building 50,000 new homes annually. Beyond residential construction, another 40,000 workers are nec-

essary to deliver on the commitments outlined in the National Development Plan (NDP), which encompasses the vital infrastructure supporting these new housing developments.

The report underscores persistent concerns about the capacity of the construction sector, noting that the anticipated shift of workers from non-residential projects to home building hasn't materialized. This situation is particularly pressing as the demand for housing continues to outpace supply, leading to rising costs for both renters and buyers. Compounding the issue, many public infrastructure projects crucial for new communities have experienced significant delays.

terprise development across all regions.”

With a heritage in Ireland spanning more than 35 years, Astellas’ operations have a significant local impact and global reach. The company currently employs over 650 people in Ireland across two facilities in Killorglin and Mulhuddart, supplying medicines to 133 countries worldwide.

The multi-site investments, focusing on development, sustainability, and Research Development & Innovation (RD&I), aim to enhance Astellas’ operations across the country, further embedding its Irish footprint as a key pillar in the company’s global network.

Hauliers group demand action on overgrown road hedges

The Irish Road Haulage Association (IRHA) has issued a warning about the dangers posed by overgrown roadside hedgerows, citing them as a major contributing factor in an increasing number of road traffic accidents on rural roads.

Hauliers are reporting rising incidents of wing mirrors being smashed and drivers forced into oncoming lanes to avoid overhanging branches and briars. According to IRHA President Ger Hyland, medium-sized haulage operators are losing up to two wing mirrors per week, costing businesses around €1,000 weekly in avoidable repairs.

“When hedges encroach onto the road, truck drivers are often forced to veer across the white line in order to avoid damage to their vehicles and wing mirrors, creating a dangerous situation for all road users,” Hyland said.

MTU collaborates in study of critically endangered Flapper Skate

Munster Technological University (MTU) has contributed in the scientific response to the discovery of two critically endangered Flapper Skate (Dipturus intermedius) that washed ashore in Co. Mayo in May 2025.

The stranding, reported by members of the public and relayed to the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group’s stranding network, presented a rare opportunity for marine researchers to collect essential data on one of the most threatened elasmobranch species in Europe.

Marine scientists, including Louise Overy, Wildlife Biology Lecturer at MTU and Vice Chair of the Irish Elasmobranch Group (IEG), collaborated with Dr Catherine Waters and Alan Drumm of the Marine Institute, and Dr Danielle Orrell of University College Cork (UCC) to analyse the individuals.

The Flapper Skate is the largest skate species in the world, and it can reach up to 2.5 metres in length. They are classified as Critically Endangered by the IUCN and at risk of extinction. They are particularly at risk to any population declines as

Job cuts at Primark

Primark, which owns the Penneys retail chain, is planning to reduce its workforce by approximately 150 roles across Ireland, the UK, and the US.

The majority of these proposed redundancies, about 100 positions, are based at the company’s international headquarters in Dublin, where roughly 1,500 employees currently work. This would equate to about 7% of the head office staff.

The affected roles are within human resources, finance, and procurement departments. The planned changes are linked to a proposal to outsource certain support services to an external provider. It is believed that Accenture, operating out of Mumbai, has been identified as the outsourcing partner.

"As our global footprint continues to

expand, we need to adapt our internal structures to better align with our growth ambitions," a Primark spokesperson explained.

"We’re considering how external partners might assist in supporting our operations, allowing our internal teams to concentrate on core business activities."

"As a result, we are proposing to transfer some support function tasks to a third party and have entered into a period of collective consultation."

"This change will regrettably impact a number of employees, particularly those working in our head office."

The company emphasised that the move was not made lightly.

"We recognise how challenging this announcement is for the employees affected, and we are committed to providing as much support as possible during this transition," Primark stated.

they are slow growing, late to mature and slow to reproduce therefore they take a considerable time to recover from any population losses. Female skate only reach maturity between 7 and 26 years of age and produce as few as 40 eggs per year, which develop for 18 months before finally hatching one individual skate.

"The recent stranding of these two skates presents a unique opportunity to gather samples and insight into these incredible animals found in Irish waters" said Dr. Danielle Orrell, a UCC marine biologist of the CETUS research team who helped to coordinate the dissection. "The findings will provide valuable insights into the physiology and ecology of this Critically Endangered species."

The dissections were done at MTU’s field laboratory with analysis conducted by researchers from the Marine Institute, UCC and MTU. A range of biological samples and measurements were collected, contributing to regional and national datasets. The study adds to the conservation efforts for the species that is being undertaken including mark-recapture and electronic tagging to identify their distribution and space use.

Kelly weighing up presidential bid

Fine Gael MEP Seán Kelly is still deliberating whether to seek his party's nomination for the upcoming presidential election.

Speaking in Brussels, the Ireland South representative acknowledged that a presidential run would be "a great honour" but confirmed he has not yet made a definitive decision regarding a bid for Áras an Uachtaráin.

Kelly revealed he has engaged with Fine Gael's leadership, who he believes would

be "quite open to having a competition" for the nomination, especially given the absence of a contest for the party leadership. This suggests an appetite within the party for an internal selection process. Among the names being circulated as potential Fine Gael candidates, Seán Kelly and former EU Commissioner Mairead McGuinness are prominent. Meanwhile, former ministers Heather Humphreys and Frances Fitzgerald have both publicly stated they will not be seeking the nomination.

EU to bring forward laws on free carry-on bags when flying

European Union lawmakers have taken a significant step towards eliminating additional charges for hand luggage.

The European Parliament's Committee on Transport and Tourism has voted in favour of a proposal that would allow passengers to bring a personal item and a standard piece of hand luggage (up to 7kg and 100cm in combined dimensions) into the aircraft cabin without incurring extra fees.

This decision, a crucial part of broader reforms aimed at strengthening passenger rights, seeks to bring "fairer and more transparent travel" to the EU. Matteo Ric-

ci, vice-president of the EU Committee on Transport and Tourism and the bill's lead sponsor, emphasised that free hand luggage within clearly defined rules is a "fundamental right to avoid unjustified extra costs."

The proposed changes will see passengers entitled to a personal bag (e.g., handbag, rucksack) with maximum dimensions of 40x30x15cm, and a small hand luggage item up to 100cm (sum of length, width, and height) and 7kg, all free of charge. The hand luggage proposal complements other reforms such as airlines being required to disclose the total flight cost earlier in the booking process, including all fees and children under 12 must be seated next to their accompanying adult without additional fees. This proposal now moves to a vote by the full European Parliament. If approved there, it will then enter negotiations with EU member states. For the changes to come into force, they will need to be negotiated and ultimately approved by the member states. The exact timeline for implementation remains subject to these legislative processes.

New St author traces

F. Scott Fitzgerald’s Kerry connections

Talented Killarney author Patrick O’Sullivan Greene, who has penned a fascinating book on the life and times of The Great Gatsby writer F Scott Fitzgerald, has said there is strong anecdotal evidence that the great American wordsmith had Kerry roots.

There has been suggestions that Fitzgerald’s family can traced to Horse Island off Ballinskelligs and research is ongoing to determine if the famous novelist, essayist and short story writer gave any indication of his Kerry connection during his lifetime.

Patrick O’Sullivan Greene, formerly of New Street, Killarney and now residing in Beaufort, is the author of Gatsby: Death of an Irishman which was released in March to coincide with the 100th anniversary of publication of Fitzgerald’s most famous work.

O’Sullivan Greene’s research found that Fitzgerald (1896-1940) was initially deeply ashamed of his Irish connection but his views softened when he took an interest in revolutionary politics.

The Killarney man’s book guides the reader through F Scott Fitzgerald's troubled upbringing, his quest for status, his ambivalence towards his Irish heritage, the socio-political climate of early 20th-century America and the careless jazz era excesses portrayed in The Great Gatsby.

The book peels back the intricate layers of Fitzgerald's character, revealing the underlying themes of identity and self-rejection in his work, his shifting views of Irish issues and how his personal battles influenced his writing and contributed to his tragic life.

Patrick O’Sullivan Greene will deliver what promises to be an engaging talk on the life and times of F Scott Fitzgerald in the ANAM Arts and Cultural Centre in

Killarney on Thursday, July 3 at 6.45pm.

Part of the Celebration of Irish and American Friendship programme, the free lecture is titled Revolution, Rejection and Revival and it will mark a celebration of 100 years of The Great Gatsby. The event will also include a glamorous 1920’s dance spectacular, tuition on how to dance the Charleston and a live performance by Killarney’s own Liberace, Jack Patrick Healy. The master of ceremonies for the event will be Radio Kerry’s Brendan Fuller.

The author will also share the story of how F Scott Fitzgerald’s grandson, Thomas Manhan, came to Ireland to learn Irish following his graduation in 1964.

Killarney’s Liberace to headline Summer Fayre

Jack Patrick Healy, known as the 'Killarney Liberace', will play piano at a Summer Fayre being held to raise money for Meals on Wheels.

The event, organised by the Killarney Women’s Shed and Kit’s Vintage Fashion, is on July 10, from 11am to 4pm at the Pipe Band Hall on Matt Talbott Road in Tralee.

The Fayre aims to raise funds for Meals on Wheels, a charity that now provides services to Killarney as well as Tralee. This vital service delivers around 17,000

meals annually and offers important social contact and wellness checks for people living alone.

Alongside Jack Patrick Healy's performance, the Summer Fayre will feature a range of vendors.

These include Kit’s Vintage, Killarney Organics, Kim’s Vintage Jewellery, arts and crafts, bric-a-brac, beauty products, and home-baked cakes from Mon’s Porter Cake, Kerry.

There will also be Johnnies Cottage, a Tarot Card Reader, raffle prizes, and refreshments.

Women’s Shed to mark first anniversary

The Killarney Women’s Shed will celebrate its first anniversary this July with a Summer Buffet at the Killarney Golf and Fishing Club.

The Killarney Women’s Shed was set up in July 2024 after 145 women attended a public meeting.

Since then, between 70 and 90 women, mostly retirees aged 55 and over, attend weekly meetings.

The Shed aims to improve the quality of life for women in the community, especially those who are retired. It provides a safe and welcoming place for women to connect, make friends, and enjoy activities like yoga, line dancing, and chair exercises.

Members also have opportunities to listen to speakers and go on day trips. The group is run by volunteers and is a non-profit organisation.

The Social Action Group Rathmore CLG (SAG)

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF A 50TH ANNIVERSARY BOOK ON THE RATHMORE SOCIAL ACTION GROUP CLG

• INTRODUCTION

Rathmore Social Action Group (SAG), a community organisation established in 1975 committed to supporting community development in East Kerry and North Cork, is inviting Expressions of Interest (EOI) from experienced individuals or teams to research, write, and produce a high-quality commemorative book celebrating the history, legacy and future potential of the organisation. This publication will mark our 50th anniversary, capturing the people, stories, and impact that have shaped Rathmore SAG’s journey to date.

• PROJECT OVERVIEW

The commemorative book will serve as both a historical record and a narrative of community spirit, social progress, and volunteerism. It will reflect the voice and values of Rathmore SAG while engaging a broad audience, including current and former members, volunteers, funders, and the wider community.

• SCOPE OF WORK

The selected party will be expected to:

• Conduct research using archival material, oral histories, and interviews

• Develop an engaging written narrative chronicling key events, themes, and personal stories

• Work to capture the spirit, values, and enduring impact of the SAG

• Curate and incorporate historical photographs and documents using storytelling through pictures as a key feature of the book.

• Oversee design, layout, and editorial processes

• Deliver the final book in both print-ready and digital formats

• The final Book must be launch ready by the 20th of March 2026

For full tender document including submission requirements please email: Noreen Fleming | Position: CEO | Email: Noreen.fleming@sag.ie

CLOSING DATE FOR SUBMISSIONS: COB 21st July 2025

O’Sullivan’s Donegal hat-trick

Callum Devine and Muckross native Noel O’Sullivan clinched their third straight Donegal International Rally victory, beating Meirion Evans and Milltown's Ger Conway by 20.5 seconds.

Devine and O'Sullivan led for all of the rally, overcoming challenges like a handbrake issue for their Skoda on Saturday.

The Killarney and District Motor Club was well represented throughout the event. Both O’Sullivan and Conway are club members.

In the Modified rally, KDMC Derry Long, from just over the county bounds, codrove Aaron McIntyre to a tough twowheel-drive win in their Toyota Starlet.

Photo D Harrigan Images

Kelliher’s Toyota unveils major aftersales expansion in Tralee

Kelliher’s Toyota announced expansion plans for its aftersales department at the Tralee Chamber Members Networking Event, held at their Tralee showroom on Wednesday morning.

Kelliher’s Garage in Rathass, known as ‘the Toyota People’, has secured planning permission for a substantial expansion of

its Aftersales building.

The current building, which has housed Kelliher’s aftersales operations since 2000, has experienced capacity challenges due to increased business volume. The expansion will add approximately 700 square meters of space, enlarging all four existing sections of the building. These include the workshop service

area, the parts department, the Kelliher’s Approved Bodyshop, and the Government-appointed CVRT commercial vehicle testing area.

This substantial investment by Kelliher’s Toyota is driven by three key factors.

The main reason is to accommodate increased capacity due to the growth in Kelliher’s vehicle park and customer

base.

Secondly, the expansion will provide improved staff quarters for the Kelliher’s team, offering enhanced space during their downtime.

Finally, the development aims to deliver a superior customer experience for individuals dropping off, collecting, or waiting for their vehicles at Kelliher’s.

The new facility will incorporate modern technology for energy sourcing and use, and will adhere to best practices in material recycling and environmental protection. Pre-build site works are currently underway, with Kelliher’s anticipating the new facility to be operational in early to mid-2026.

Killarney Valley Classic & Vintage Club to host annual Car Show

Killarney Valley Classic & Vintage will host its annual car show on Sunday, July 6, at the Killarney Racecourse.

The ‘CAR SHOW 2025’ will open to cars at 10 am, with public admission beginning at 11 am.

Entry to the show is by donation on the day, and children can enter for free. This year's event will feature a special cel-

ebration of the Toyota Celica, in association with Kellihers.ie.

Any Toyota Celica model at least 20 years old (pre-2004) arriving at the show will be entered into a prize draw.

All car models 20 years and older, regardless of make or model, are invited to participate..

Further information can be found at www.killarneyvalleycv.com.

SUDOKU

Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3 x 3 box contains the digits 1 through 9. No math, nothing has to add up –solve the puzzle with reasoning and logic.

LAST WEEK’S SUDOKU ANSWERS

FOR FUN

& Holistic Therapist ➥ Sports Massage Therapy ➥ Deep Tissue Massage ➥ Injury Rehabilitation ➥ Reflexology ➥ Taping & Strapping ➥ Ear Candling

Aromatherapy

Holistic Massage

Indian Head Massage

Stone Therapy Massage

Onsite Massage

Infant & Child Massage

Now taking appointments at Studio 7 Fitness, New Street, Killarney APPOINTMENTS

FINANCESECTION

ADVISOR DIRECTORY FOR KILLARNEY

McGuire Liston

Lewis Road, Killarney, Co. Kerry liam@mcguireliston.ie 064 6632255

Dermot Cronin Old Market Ln, Killarney, Co. Kerry kerrymortgagecentre@eircom.net. 064 662 2775

RSA reports further progress in waiting times for driving tests

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) has reported further progress under its Action Plan to reduce the waiting times for driving tests.

The average national waiting time for a driving test stands at 18.4 weeks, significantly down from a high of 27 weeks at the end of April.

The Action Plan was announced at the end of May and set out a series of actions to bring the average waiting time down to 10 weeks by September 2025. Key measures underway to boost testing capacity include:

• Accelerated training of new testers

through the use of additional training facilities and a revised approach to training, enabling early deployment of new testers to centres.

• Expanded testing hours, including overtime on weekday evenings, Saturdays, and bank holidays – with tests running from 7.25am to 7pm.

• Targeted manual intervention in the booking system to ensure invitations are issued to areas of greatest demand

to ensure more efficient slot allocation.

• Over recent weeks waiting times have fallen more quickly than had been projected under the Action Plan, when it was estimated that waiting times would be 22 weeks at the end of June.

Brendan Walsh, Chief Operations Officer with the RSA said: “These improvements reflect the pace and focus with which the RSA and its teams have been implementing the targeted measures outlined in the Action Plan, and we expect the service waiting time to be below 18 weeks at the end of June.”

TO LET: One-bedroom apartment in Killarney town centre. Suitable for working professionals. Contact 085 2051008.

TO LET: En-suite rooms to rent in Anabla area, 15 mins from Killarney. Contact: 087 3853588.

CLASSIFIEDS

AVAILABLE: MUSIC LESSONS - piano, fiddle, and guitar. Garda vetted. Leaving Cert Music grinds and Online Option also available. Tel John: 087-6801392 or Maggie: 0876961681.

AVAILABLE: Lawn cutting, strimming, garden tidy up and landscaping. New lawns levelled, raked and seeded. Drainage, driveways, panel fencing, kerbs etc. Mini digger with experience driver for hire. Telephone Darragh on 087 9118357.

AVAILABLE: Food safety & HACCP consultant. Are you a new or existing food company who needs help in setting up your HACCP plan systems, to ensure you will be ready for any unannounced inspection. If so, contact

TO LET: Double Room to Rent. 5 mins walk to town. Suit hotel staff. Contact 087 9034130.

TO LET: Bed Modular Home with ensuite in Rathmore Village, just 5 mins walk from train, bus stop and shops. Modern, con-

Mary on 087 7725028 for more information.

AVAILABLE: Maths and Science grinds available during the Summer months, to prepare for the next school year or build confidence. Telephone 087 9460162.

AVAILABLE: Home babysitting/childminding available a couple days per week for the summer. Plenty of experience in looking after kids of all ages. References available on request. Call Ali on 087 3664207.

AVAILABLE: Irish woman available for AirBnB turnovers and B&B work. Call 085 2051008.

FOR SALE

FOR SALE: SALE on various fuels, including

living. Call 087 6089923 for info or viewing.

LET: Room available: would suit a female working professional looking for their own private space in a modern new home. Available: September. References required.

seasoned dry Ash, Oak and Beechwood hardwood. Lorry and Jeep trailer loads available. Contact 087 4350736.

FOR SALE: Meadowing for sale, suitable for hay and/or sileage.Telephone 086 0689904.

FOR SALE: Vintage Tractor, Deutz single Cylinder, diesel FL612. Made in 1951. Something different. Telephone 085 8875860.

FOR SALE: Bath with shower head, glass shower screen and maghony side panel. Killarney area. Collection only. Telephone 086 8122574.

ANIMALS

FREE TO GOOD HOME: Collie pups, 3

Email: rentaroomkillarney@outlook.com

WANTED: Houses and apartments to rent in the Killarney area. Contact 086 8136888. WANTED: Looking for long-term rental under HAP scheme in Killarney and surrounding area. Telephone 087 3371560.

months old, are free to good home. Very good temperament. Contact 087 2567783.

ANIMALS: HUG: Homes for Unwanted Greyhounds. For further details please contact us on 087 6932090 or email info@homesforunwantedgreyhounds.ie

ANIMALS: Adopt, Don't Shop - Rescue pups and kitties are looking for loving homes at KLAWS. Visit our website: www.klaws.ie or contact us by phone: 087 9704480, or email: klawskenmare@gmail.com

WANTED

WANTED: Responsible person for light household duties and school collection/childminding, part-time. References required. Tel: (086) 6772174.

IF YOU’D LIKE TO ADVERTISE

THE INCHES, KILLARNEY, CO KERRY, V93 E8PV

The Inches is an exclusive limited collection of 11 x 2 bedroom contemporary townhouses situated in the heart of Killarney, Co Kerry. Superbly located on the edge of Killarney town, just off the Muckross Road, these exclusive homes offer a unique blend of modern elegance and classic sophistication. Each unit has been carefully designed to maximise space and natural light and come complete with a range of high quality fixtures and fittings as standard.

SHOWHOUSE OPEN BY APPOINTMENT.

DNG TED HEALY PSL001388

DNG House Price Index results

According to the latest residential market review from leading property advisors DNG, the average price of a second-hand home outside of Dublin has increased to €313,453. The DNG National Price Gauge (NPG) recorded an increase in the average price of resale property nationally (excluding Dublin) of 4.7% in H1 2025, whilst in the twelve months to June 2025 the NPG saw an increase in residential property prices of 8.7%, the same rate of increase recorded by the NPG in the full year to December 2024.

On a regional basis, the NPG results show that the annual rate of price growth in the year to June was strongest in the MidWest region at 10.4%, followed by the South East (10.3%) and Midlands region (9.9%). In the first six months of 2025 there was also evidence of robust rates of price growth in all regional residential markets. The South East region saw the strongest price performance in the six months to June, with an increase of 6.4% recorded in the area, followed by the

Outside Dublin, the region with the lowest average price remains the Border at €242,426 followed by the Midlands at €261,021. The Mid-East region (Kildare, Wicklow, Meath & Louth) has the highest average price outside the capital at €439,289 but saw one of the lowest annual rates of growth across the regions at 6.7% for the year to June 2025.

An analysis of DNG buyers of resale properties in the first six months of this year reveals that first time buyers continue to be the majority of purchasers of second hand properties in the capital, buying 54% of sales agreed in the period. The research shows an additional 19% of purchases were made by owners trading up in the market whilst only 5% were buying in order to trade down. With regard to financing their purchase, 69% of buyers relied on mortgage finance to complete their purchase, a further 21% used cash/ non mortgage finance, whilst 9% of buyers were selling an existing property in or-

der to move home. Equally, 19% of vendors were landlords selling investment properties in the first six months of 2025 according to the research.

Commenting on the results, local agent Ted Healy said, “The market continues to be characterised by an excess of demand over supply and prices continue to climb as a result.” He continued, “While some areas have seen an increase in available properties coming for sale, including in the capital, supply remains very tight in the Killarney market and demand remains robust resulting in increasing pressure on house prices.

The rental sector also remains a major concern. The research shows that in the first six months of this year, 19% of all homes sold in the capital were landlords exiting the rental sector. Early indications since the recent government announcement on their proposed reforms of the rental sector are very concerning and look like leading to a sharp increase in the number of landlords exiting the market.

The main issue facing landlords going forward will be that many will no longer be able to terminate a lease in order to sell the property with vacant possession, forcing small landlords to have to wait six years to get vacant possession and large landlords will have to sell with a tenant in situ at a discounted price. We therefore expect the sales of investment properties to spike in the short to medium term as landlords decide to exit the sector which in turn will heap extra pressure on the rental market with less properties available.

VACANCY FOR MONDELEZ RATHMORE – TEMPORARY QEHS TECHNICIAN

Electrician

Rathmore, County Kerry Maternity Cover

Mondelez Ireland Production Limited, Rathmore, Co. Kerry Position Type: 6-month Contract

Salary: Competitive salary offered

What will the role involve?

Requirements of applicants:

• You must be a qualified Electrician (Level 6 QQI or equivalent in electrical senior trade).

Mondelez Rathmore needs to recruit a QHSE Coordinator for a temporary assignment to cover maternity leave. The role will be for a period of 9 to 12 months and will not be permanent thereafter

Reporting to site Quality Manager candidates will be responsible for supporting operation of Quality & HSE systems and implementing improvements within manufacturing processes on site at Mondelez Rathmore.

Qualifications

• Food Science Degree Qualification essential.

• Preferred experience in Allen Bradley PLC controls and logic.

What kind of people are we

looking for?

• Preferred maintenance experience & problem-solving.

• We operate 24/7 on 8hour shifts Monday – Friday, 12hour shifts Saturday – Sunday.

Successful candidates will ideally meet the following criteria:

• Demonstrable experience in the Food industry or a similar operating environment which includes experience in a Quality function.

• Well-developed IT / PC skills – Microsoft Office & SAP. Skills

• Self-motivated, determined, and able to work under own initiative.

Please email your CV to iehrsolutions@mdlz.com

• Flexibility, adaptive learner, analytical person, good communication & good organisational skills.

Mondelez Production Limited is an equal opportunities employer

• Demonstrated ability to work independently and implement improvement initiatives with a moderate level of guidance.

How do you apply?

Forward a current Curriculum Vitae plus a Cover Letter by email to: michelle.perkins@mdlz.com

Mondelez International is an Equal Opportunities Employer. Canvassing will disqualify applicants from consideration

WANTED

Dental

Nurse/Receptionist

Experience desirable

Great Pay & Conditions

To apply for this position please email your CV to reception@kingdomclinic.ie T: 064 77 63010

A busy Killarney Guest House is recruiting for the following:

PRODUCTION FLOOR ASSISTANT

WEDNESDAY - SATURDAY

INCLUSIVE 4 NIGHTS AND BANK HOLIDAY SUNDAYS

Applications to the following email address recruitingkillarney@gmail.com

APPLICATIONS TO: PRODUCTION@KCPRINT.IE FULL-TIME

The role will suit a person with attention to detail, ability to work on their own initiative and as part of a team.

This person would be part of a fast moving and interesting print production industry with the opportunity to learn and develop new skills.

The diverse nature of the print industry ensures that each day is different. This person would be working alongside skilled print and finishing professionals assisting in the finishing production from business cards to books.

Duties and responsibilities:

• Assist in production processes

• Machine minding

Qualifications:

• Good technical ability

• Self-motivated and flexible

• Clean driving licence

The Killarney Advertiser Crossword JUST FOR FUN | ANSWERS NEXT WEEK

ACROSS

1. Brigitte, e.g.

4. It has a point

9. Ambergris source

14. New Mexico's Dona ___ county

15. Suggestion box fill

16. A status symbol

17. Film that may rate four stars?

20. Layers

21. Pulitzer-winning columnist Herb

22. Place for a draft

23. Magazine feature

26. Pot-bellied pet

27. PC key

28. Film that may rate three stars?

31. Battering device

34. Jack Benny's 39

35. Abominable snowmen

38. Commiserator's word

40. Floor models

43. Relinquish

44. Arthur Marx

46. Tiny Tim's instrument, briefly

47. Caviar, e.g.

48. Film that may rate two stars?

53. Fifth sign

55. Chinchilla's coat

56. Alarm clock, e.g.

60. Tabloid aviators, briefly

61. Bass or treble, e.g.

63. Sound beginning?

64. Film that may rate one star?

68. Noted billionaire

69. Virus carrier, sometimes

70. Coxcomb

71. Surprise attack

72. Annie's pooch

73. It may be at the end of the line

DOWN

1. '90s treaty

2. Station sign

3. "Olympia" painter Edouard

4. Total disaster

5. Pitched messages

6. Track record?

7. Worldly rather than spiritual

8. Con's preoccupation

9. In an inappropriate fashion

10. Today, in Madrid

11. Statue material, perhaps

12. Word with tender or aid

13. Exercise, as influence

18. HS math subject

19. One of seven, to Salome

24. Washday unit

25. Part of a blade

29. Biggest human bone

30. Federal agcy., 1946-74

31. Bit of a cheer

32. King beginning?

33. Long-tailed South American monkeys

36. Wedding promise

37. Part of WYSIWYG

39. Operative

41. Colo. neighbor

42. Char

45. Discarded

49. "___ Lang Syne"

50. Cara and Castle

51. A way to be sure

52. Type of log

53. Fire, euphemistically

54. "___ Frome"

57. Type of car or nurse

58. Filmdom's Flynn

59. Unpleasantly grating

62. Disaster-relief org.

65. It may sting a little

66. Obi-___ Kenobi

67. Caesar's first name

IN MEMORIAM

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT & 1ST ANNIVERSARY

O’DONOGHUE

In loving memory of Micheál O’ Donoghue Áras Antoine, Barraduff, Killarney 1st July 2024. Rest in Peace.

As we lovingly remember Micheál on his first anniversary, we, his daughter Siobhán, son-in-law Kevin and grandchildren Muireann, Caoimhe and Micheál and extended family, wish to express our appreciation for the sympathy and support shown to us on our great loss.

Thank you to all who called to our home, attended the removal, Requiem Mass and burial and those that joined the Mass online.

We are grateful to those who sent floral tributes, Mass cards, perpetual enrolments, sympathy cards and letters, text messages and online condolences.

Our sincere thanks to Fr. Jim Lenihan for his prayers and guidance and also for celebrating the Requiem Mass. Thanks to Fr. Paddy O’Donoghue, Fr. Micheál Ó Dochartaigh, Fr. Tadhg Ó Dochartaigh and Fr. Tom Looney for concelebrating the Mass.

Thanks also to Derry & Rosie Healy for the beautiful singing and music at the Mass. Thank you to Kenneth O’ Donoghue for livestreaming the Mass.

Thanks to Clare Brosnan for receiving Micheál’s remains into the church on the evening of his reposal.

We would like to acknowledge and thank the Guards of Honour from Glenflesk GAA and the INTO. Our appreciation also for the Facebook tributes.

We would like to thank Dr. Gary Stack and the staff of Park Medical Practice for the wonderful care and kindness shown to Micheál over the years.

Thanks also to the staff of Kennelly’s at the Reeks Pharmacy for their assistance. Thanks to all the nurses in Rathmore Health Centre for their excellent care.

We would like to acknowledge and thank the Kerry Palliative Care Community Team and the Kerry Hospice Foundation Night Nurse Team who looked after Micheál in his home in his final days.

Our appreciation to all the brilliant and dedicated carers that cared for Micheál in his final years, his team of private carers and his HSE Homecare Team.

Thanks to the team at Tom Murphy Undertakers for all their advice and professionalism.

Thanks to the staff of the Dromhall Hotel for the lovely meal after the funeral.

As it is impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deepest gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions.

Micheál’s First Anniversary Mass and Maureen’s Second Anniversary Mass will take place on Sunday 6th July at 11.00am in Barraduff Church.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT & 1ST ANNIVERSARY

O’REGAN

In loving memory of Tom Bracker O’Regan late of Ardshanavooly, Killarney who died on 4th July 2024.

As we lovingly remember our beloved Tom (Bracker) on his first anniversary, his daughters Miriam, Brid, Evelyn and son Tomas, with their families, wish to express our heartfelt thanks and appreciation for the sympathy and support shown to us on our heart-breaking loss.

We would like to offer our deepest gratitude to our relatives, neighbours, friends. Thanks to all who attended the mass and the graveside.

Sincere thanks to those who sent food and refreshments, and many thanks for the mass cards, letters, messages, texts-calls and floral tributes.

Thanks to Fr. Begley, Fr. Jim Lenihan, Fr. Paddy O’ Donoghue, Fr. Pat O’Donnell, Fr. Doherty and Fr. Tom Looney - for the prayers and beautiful personal mass to celebrate his life, and at the graveside. Thank you to the sacristan Tadhg Fleming, and singers Paud O’Donoghue and Michelle.

To the staff of the Great Southern and his beloved Austin Stacks, Tralee club mates who formed guards of honour both days despite the rain, the people of his adopted Killarney who graciously lined the roadside, joined the mass online, waited outside St. Mary’s Cathedral, and travelled long distances - we were deeply touched and it gave us great comfort during this difficult time.

Thanks to the Arbutus Hotel for their hospitality.

A special word of thanks to Dr. Ken Keohane and Dr. Kavanagh along with each member of staff at Deenagh Medical for their friendship, professionalism and kindness.

To Liam Sheahan’s pharmacy, thank you for everything throughout.

Palliative team of nurses who helped in his final days at home and UHK staff -thank you all.

Thanks to Mike, Mary and young Michael O’Shea, Funeral Directors, and Michael Duggan with his team for their professionalism and guidance in arranging the funeral.

To all mentioned and to the many more not possible to thank individually-please accept our personal gratitude in this acknowledgement as a token of our deep appreciation.

Mass will be offered for all your special intentions.

1st Anniversary Mass on Saturday 5th July at 6.15pm in St. Mary’s Cathedral.

ACKNOWLEDEGEMENT & 1ST ANNIVERSARY

COLLINS In loving memory of Sarah Collins late of Firies, Killarney who passed away on 2nd July 2024.

As we approach the 1st anniversary, we remember Sarah as the gentle soul that she was.

We, her family wish to express our gratitude to everyone who supported us in a very difficult time.

Sarah is sadly missed by her husband Sean, her children, and her grandchildren.

Anniversary Mass for Sarah will take place on Wednesday 2nd July at 7.30pm in St Gertrude’s Church, Firies.

1ST ANNIVERSARY WELDON

In loving memory of my mother Eileen Weldon Barleymount, Killarney who died on 23rd June 2024.

Those we love don’t go away They walk beside us every day Unseen, unheard, but always near Still loved, still missed, and very dear.

So sadly missed by your son Michael, daughter-in-law Hilda and grandchildren Ewan, Eve and Shea Weldon.

1st Anniversary Mass on Sunday 29th June at 10.00am in The Prince of Peace Church, Fossa.

3RD ANNIVERSARY NAUGHTON

In loving memory of Frank Naughton late of Ahane, Cullen, Mallow, Co.Cork who died on 30th June 2022.

Lonely is the home without you Life to us is not the same

All the world would be like heaven If we could have you back again.

Loved, missed and remembered always by your wife Mary, son John, daughters Ann-Marie and Geraldine, daughter-in-law Niamh, sons-in-law John and Daniel, and your 5 grandchildren.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT & 1ST ANNIVERSARY

KELLY In loving memory of our Mom Nora Kelly (nee Buckley) Ardaneanig, Killarney who passed away on 27th June 2024.

As we approach and remember our beautiful, loving, gentle, caring kind, Mom, Nan, Sister, on this her first anniversary, we, her children Joan, Noreen, Mary Margaret, Elizabeth, Bernadette, John, Eileen, Brian, Tim, Breda, Kathleen, Seamus, Shelia, Patricia, Lawerence, Nuala and Laura, daughter-in law Marion, grandchildren, great grandchildren, along with her sisters Eileen and Sr. Dominic, brothers Pat, Danny and Bart, nieces, nephews and family, and those who travelled long distances, we wish to express our greatest gratitude and thanks to everyone who attended the rosary, removal, mass, and burial, sympathized with us, and supported us during the time of Mom’s passing.

Our deepest appreciation to all who cared for Mom in her final days, the doctors and staff at University Hospital Kerry, Cahernane Medical Centre Killarney, and palliative care night nurses.

A special thank you to Fr. Kieran and his coconcelebrants, to the sacristan Thadgh, and to the lovely music.

We wish to acknowledge Mom’s wonderful neighbours and friends for their support, and thanks to those who sent mass cards, letters of sympathy, floral tributes, text messages, and phoned.

It would be difficult to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement with gratitude from all the family.

“A life well-lived is a legacy of love, joy, of lasting memories, our grateful hearts will treasure.

Mom’s First Anniversary Mass on Saturday 28th June at 6.15pm in St Mary’s Cathedral.

14TH ANNIVERSARY

GALLIVAN

In loving memory of Denis Gallivan Knocknaskeha, Killarney who died on 29th June 2011.

When we are in need of comfort

We walk down memory lane

There we see you smiling

We talk with you again.

And as we wander slowly back

We seem to hear you say Don’t grieve, don’t cry We’ll meet again someday.

Always lovingly remembered by your family.

Anniversary Mass on Monday 30th June at 6.15pm in St Mary’s Cathedral.

2ND ANNIVERSARY MCSWEENEY

In loving memory of Christina McSweeney (née Collins) late of Leam, Gneeveguilla and Countess Grove, Killarney who died on 30th June 2023.

I Only Wanted You

They say memories are golden And maybe that is true

But we never wanted memories We only wanted you.

A million times we needed you

A million times we’ve cried

If love alone could have saved you

You never would have died.

In life we loved you dearly

In death we love you still

In our hearts you hold a place No one can ever fill.

If tears could build a stairway And heartache make a lane

We’d walk the path to heaven

To bring you back again.

Deeply missed, loved and remembered by your husband Denis, children Adrian, Brian, Elaine and Marie.

2nd Anniversary Mass for Christina will be held on Sunday 29th June at 9.30am in The Church of the Holy Rosary, Gneeveguilla.

2ND ANNIVERSARY MCSWEENEY

In loving memory of Christina McSweeney (née Collins) late of Leam, Gneeveguilla and Countess Grove, Killarney who died on 30th June 2023.

Our Nana Christina We’re still quite little, just five and three, But you were the best therecould ever be. They say you loved us strong and true, And Nana, oh how we love you too.

Sometimes a robin comes to stay, It hops beside us when we play.

They say it’s you who sends it near. To show vour love is always here.

And once we found a feather white, It floated down, so soft and light.

They said, “That’s Nana saying, ‘Hi.’ She sent it from her home on high.”

We miss you more than words can say, We think about you every day.

We talk to you in dreams and prayer, And feel you’re with us everywhere.

We blow a kiss up to the blue, To clouds and stars and skies so true.

We may be small, but we both know- You’re with us, Nana Christina, wherever we go.

Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by your grandaughters Ellie and Grace.

5TH ANNIVERSARY

SOMERS

In loving memory of Peter Somers late of Dennehys Road, Killarney who died on 30th June 2020.

Speak Their Name “Someone I love has gone away And life is not the same

The greatest gift that you can give Is just to speak their name.

I need to hear the stories And the tales of days gone past I need for you to understand These memories must last.

We cannot make more memories Since they’re no longer here

So when you speak of them to me It’s music to my ear.”

Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by your loving wife Assumpta and family.

Anniversary Mass on Saturday 28th June at 6.15pm in St. Mary’s Cathedral, Killarney.

5TH ANNIVERSARY

SOMERS In loving memory of Peter (Pete) Somers Dennehys Road, Killarney who died on 30th June 2020.

We often sit and think about The years that have passed by And of the happiness and joy That was shared by all of us.

We think of all the laughter The smiles and the fun And although it brings us comfort To walk down memory lane It reminds us how, without you Life has never been the same.

Sadly missed, never forgotten by Sandra, Flor, Jack, Conor, Eoin and Emma.

31ST ANNIVERSARY CASEY

In loving memory of a loving wife and mother Moira Casey 6 Gleann Rua, Rathmore, Co. Kerry who died on 26th June 1994.

“A place in our hearts is yours alone A piece of love no one can own For deep in our hearts a memory is kept For a wonderful wife and mom, we will never forget”.

Always loved and never forgotten by your husband Sean, sons and daughters Simon, Leonie, Martina, and Aidan, and grandchildren Lily, Ellie and Thomas.

6TH ANNIVERSARY MCCARTHY

Treasured Memories of Sheila McCarthy late of Crannog Lodge, Muckross Grove, Killarney who passed away on 28th June 2019.

A loving nature, a heart of gold, The very best this world could hold Never selfish, always kind These are the memories you left behind.

A silent thought, a quiet prayer For a special person in God’s care. Those we love, live in our hearts forever.

Always loved and forever remembered by Ted, Tara, Ryan and Mia. xxxx

6TH ANNIVERSARY & BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE

HERLIHY

Treasured and precious memories of Kathleen Herlihy Cummeen, Killarney, Co. Kerry and late of Kiltyclogher, Co. Leitrim who sadly passed away on 26th June 2019 and whose birthday occurred on 21st June.

Life goes on I know that’s true

But it’s not the same since I lost you I keep your memories one by one The things you said the things you did.

They bring a smile and many a tear And always a wish that you were here In God’s care you rest above And in my heart you rest with love.

Always remembered and never forgotten by your loving husband Connie, daughter Mary, sons Pat and Ger, and their families.

Anniversary Mass on Saturday 28th June at 6.15pm in St. Mary’s Cathedral.

POWERFUL NOVENA

This novena never fails. Say it on the hour for 9 hours. Jesus who has said, ask and you shall receive, seek and you shall find, knock and the door will be open to you. Through the intercession of Mary, the Most Holy Mother, I knock, I ask that my prayer will be granted (Make your request).

Oh Jesus, has said all you ask the Father in my name, he will grant through the intercession of Mary, the Most Holy Mother. I humbly beg and urgently ask the Father in thy Name that my prayer be granted (Make request here)

Oh Jesus who has said Heaven and Earth shall pass away but my word shall not pass away through the intercession of Mary, the most Holy Mother. I feel confident my prayer shall be answered. (Make request).

This novena is to be said at the same time every hour for nine consecutive hours – one day. Promised publication, never fails. AC

6TH ANNIVERSARY MCCARTHY

In loving memory of Sheila McCarthy (nee Warren) late of Crannog Lodge, Muckross Grove, Killarney who died on 28th June 2019.

A light from our household is gone

A voice we loved is still

A place vacant in our home

That never can be filled.

Lonely is the home without you Life to us is not the same

The entire world would be like heaven

If we could have you back again.

How dearly we loved you And prayed you might live

But Jesus just beckoned And we had to give.

God give us strenght to bear it

And courage to fight the blow

What it meant to lose you

God alone will ever know.

May the God of love and mercy

Care for our loved one who is gone and bless with consolation Those left to carry on.

From your loving husband Tim, daughter Lisa and son-in-law-Ger. **

God saw you getting tired

A cure was not meant to be

So he put his arms around you And whispered “Come to me”.

A golden heart stopped beating

Hard working hands at rest

God broke our hearts to prove to us

He only takes the best.

We miss you everyday Nana. Love you always, Molly and Abbey. xoxo

6TH ANNIVERSARY MCCARTHY

In loving memory of a wonderful mom Sheila McCarthy late of Crannog Lodge, Muckross Grove, Killarney who died on 28th June 2019.

If Roses grow in Heaven

Lord please pick a bunch for me

Place them in my Mother’s arms and tell her they’re from me.

Tell her I love her and miss her and when she turns to smile place a kiss upon her cheek and hold her for awhile.

Because remembering her is easy I do it every day but there’s an ache within my heart that will never go away.

We miss you every day and forever in our hearts, love Oliver and daughter-in-law Patricia. xx

Of all the special gifts in life however great or small

To have you as our Nan was the greatest gift of all.

Love you always Nana Mac, Lily and Lucy. xx

52 IN MEMORIAM

9TH ANNIVERSARY

ROHAN (NEE FERRIS)

In loving memory of Aileen Rohan late of Kings Park, and O’Kelly’s Villas, Killarney who passed away on 1st July 2016.

What I would not give to clasp her hand

Her dear, sweet face to see

To hear her voice, to see her smile

That meant so much to me.

You left behind an aching heart

That loved you most sincere I never did, nor never will Forget you, Aileen, my dear.

Thinking of you always with love, your husband Mark and son Eugene.

‘My Heart Belongs to you’.

Aileen’s Anniversary Mass on Tuesday 1st July at 6.15pm in St. Mary’s Cathedral.

9TH ANNIVERSARY

ROHAN (NEE FERRIS)

In loving memory of Aileen Rohan (Nee Ferris) late of Kings Park and O’Kelly’s Villas, Killarney who died on 1st July 2016.

A special smile, a special face

And in our hearts, a special place

Our memories we keep, one by one Things you’ve said and songs you’ve sung.

Bring a smile, sometimes a tear

But always a wish, that you were here

No words can tell, no tears express

The love, the loss, the emptiness.

You are not just a memory Or part of the past

You are ours to remember

As long as life lasts.

Missed and loved every day by Mam, Richard and family.

Rest in Peace Ails. xx

** Somewhere beyond the sunset

Where loved ones never die

You sleep in a beautiful garden

Beneath a golden sky.

Look around your garden Lord

For an angel with a smile

She wont be hard to recognise

She must stand out a mile.

Put your hand around her Lord

And kiss her smiling face

She is very special

And can never be replaced.

Always loved and missed by your brother Eamonn, sister-in-law Yvonne, niece Niamh and godson Ciarán.

May you rest gently in Heaven.

Anniversary Mass on Tuesday 1st July at 6.15pm in St. Mary’s Cathedral.

9TH ANNIVERSARY

ROHAN

In loving memory of Aileen Rohan (Nee Ferris)

O Kelly’s Villas and Muckross Road, Killarney who died on 1st July 2016.

Those special memories of you will always bring a smile

If only we could have you back for just a little while.

Then we could sit and talk just like we used to do

You always meant so very much and always will do too.

The fact you’re no longer here will always cause us pain

But you are forever in our hearts, until we meet again.

Thinking of you my beautiful Cousin Ails on your 9th anniversary.

Miss you every day. Love Jude. xxx

10TH ANNIVERSARY

LYNCH

In loving memory of Mary Lynch late of Ballinamanagh, Kilcummin, Killarney who died on 1st July 2015.

Deep are the memories, Precious they stay No passing of time, Can take them away.

Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you this special one, (mention favour). Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted. Never known to fail. Must promise publication of prayer. OM NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART

Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you this special one, (mention favour). Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted. Never known to fail. Must promise publication of prayer. AN NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART

10TH ANNIVERSARY LYNCH (NEE CRONIN)

In loving memory of Mary Lynch (nee Cronin) late of Ballinamanagh, Kilcummin, Killarney, who died on 1st July 2015.

Ten years have passed Since you went away Yet not a single day slips by in dismay. Your presence lingers, gentle and true A mother’s warmth in all we do.

A grandmother’s grace, a wife so dear No one else could ever come near. Our guiding light, our safe embrace You taught us love, you taught us grace.

Your strength and kindness shape our way In every moment, every day. Your fingerprint in all we are We miss your voice, though you’re afar.

A special lady, pure and true So strong, so kind in all you do. Though time moves on, love won’t fade Your memory in light and shade.

Today, we celebrate all you gave The life you led, the path you paved. Grateful for the love you brought Forever cherished, never forgot.

Fondly remembered and sadly missed by Noel, Antoinette and Seánagh. xxx

Anniversary Mass on Saturday 28th June at 7.30pm in Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Kilcummin.

10TH ANNIVERSARY LYNCH

In loving memory of Mary Lynch(nee Cronin) Ballinamanagh, Kilcummin, Killarney who died on 1st July 2015.

These special memories of you Mary Will always bring a smile If only we could have you back For just a little while.

Then we could sit and talk again Just like we used to do Time spent with you meant so very much And always will do too.

And so here we are today Remembering a sister and a friend Mary you will never be forgotten You will be with us, right to the end.

Sadly missed and always remembered by your sisters Ann, Sheila, Catherine and Margaruite, brothers Pat and Donal, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law. xxxxxx

Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked You for many favours. This time I ask you this very special one (mention favour). Take it, dear Heart of Jesus and place it within Your own Heart where Your Father sees it. Then, in His merciful eyes it will become Your favour not mine. Amen. Say for three days, promise publication and favour will be granted. Marley

11TH ANNIVERSARY LINEHAN

(NEE REEN)

In loving memory of Agnes Linehan (nee Reen) Park Road, Killarney who died on 25th June 2014.

You always had a smile to share

A laugh, a joke, a time to care

Each of us in our own way

Have special thoughts of you today.

Always loved and sadly missed by your husband Jer, daughter Erin and son Jack.

Anniversary Mass on Saturday 28th June at 6.15pm in St. Mary’s Catherdral, Killarney.

11TH ANNIVERSARY

LINEHAN (NEE REEN)

In loving memory of Agnes Linehan (Nee Reen) Park Road, Killarney who died on 25th June 2014. Also remembering our parents Jer and Bridie Reen Corran, Headford.

They say there is a reason

They say that time will heal

But neither time nor reason

Will change the way we feel.

For no one knows the heartache

That lies behind our smiles

No one knows how many times

We have broken down and cried.

Love always your sister Geraldine, John, Kevin and Seán.

11TH ANNIVERSARY

LINEHAN (NEE REEN)

In loving memory of Agnes Linehan (nee Reen) 2 Park Road, Killarney who died on 25th June 2014.

Those we love remain with us

For love itself lives on

Special memories never fade

Because a loved one’s gone.

Those we love can never be

More than a thought apart

For as long as there is memory

They will live on in our heart.

Will those who think of Agnes today

A little prayer to Jesus say.

Loved and remembered always, Maureen, Sean and Jerry.

and grant me my request. (Say

daily & your request will be

www.killarneyadvertiser.ie

BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE

GRADY

Birthday Remembrance of Donal Grady Killarney whose birthday occurs on 29th June.

Dad

A special smile, a special face

A special dad we can’t replace You gave your love

Your whole life through God bless you Dad We love you too.

A loving father is now at rest

For each of us he did his best

His love was great

His heart was kind

A beautiful memory left behind.

Always in our thoughts. Forever in our hearts.

Joan, Carla, Colin, Michael, Dorothy, Denise, John, Martin and their beloved mother Julia and families. x

NOVENA TO THE SACRED HEART

Dear Heart of Jesus in the past I have

asked for many favours. This time I ask you this special one, (mention favour). Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your Father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your favour not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted. Never known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer.

RF

To

BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE

EVISTON (NEE LUCEY)

5th Heanenly Birthday Linda Eviston (nee Lucey) late of Glenflesk and Dromkerry, Killarney whose birthday occurs on 30th June.

Birthday wishes, sent to Heaven From your family below We miss and love you dearly And we wanted you know.

Your Birthday’s not forgotten And your memory lives on We celebrate the life you had Even though you’ve gone.

If we were given just one wish

One that would come true We’d wish you back beside us

To spend this day with you.

We will always love and miss you And will often shed a tear

Especially on your special day Year after year.

Lots of love, your sisters Karen, Sandra, Deirdre, Áine, and families. xxxx

PRAYER TO ST. JOSEPH

O Glorious St. Joseph, faithful follower of Jesus, to you do we raise our hearts and hands to implore your powerful intercession in obtainingfrom the Benign Heart of Jesus all the helps and graces necessary for our spiritual welfare, particularly the grace of a happy death and the special favour we now implore (.... O Guardian of the Word Incarnate, we feel animated with confidence that your prayers on our behalf will be graciously heard before the throne of God.

O Glorious St. Joseph, through the love you bear to Jesus Christ and for the glory of His Name, hear our prayers and obtain our petitions. Our Father, Hail Mary (three times), Glory be to the Father. JJD

21ST ANNIVERSARY

O’CONNOR

Treasured memories of a loving daughter and sister Michelle O’Connor late of Glebe Farmhouse, Kilcummin, Killarney who died on 27th June 2004. Rest in Peace.

Those we love don’t go away They walk beside us every day Unseen, unheard, but always near Still loved, still missed, still very dear.

Loved and remembered by your Dad and sister Lisa.

Anniversary Mass on Friday 4th July at 7:30pm.

6TH ANNIVERSARY

TANGNEY

In loving memory of Eileen Tangney Black Valley, Beaufort, Co. Kerry who passed away on 30th June 2019.

If Roses Grow In Heaven If roses grow in Heaven Lord please pick a bunch for us

Place them in our Mother’s arms and tell her they are from us.

Tell her we love and miss her and when she turns to smile place a kiss upon her cheek and hold her for awhile.

Because remembering her is easy We do it every day, But there is an ache within our hearts That will never go away.

Always loved and never forgotten by your loving husband Michael, daughters Mary Rose, Irene, Susan and Siobhan, sons Gene, Derry and the late Small Mike, and your grandchildren Gary, Christina, Claire, Michelle, Féidhlim, Sinead and Fiadhna, and extended family. xxxxxxxxx

21ST ANNIVERSARY

O’CONNOR

Treasured memories of a wonderful sister Michelle O’Connor late of Glebe Farmhouse, Kilcummin, Killarney who died on 27th June 2004. Rest in Peace.

There is a beautiful lady in Heaven

So precious and so rare

That lady is my Sister

The best beyond compare.

Call her name out softly Lord And when she looks your way

Tell her I still love her

And miss her every day.

Loved and remembered by Brid. xxx

21ST ANNIVERSARY

O’CONNOR

In loving memory of Michelle O’Connor

Glebe Farm House, Kilcummin who died on 27th June 2004. Rest in Peace.

We have sent a dove to heaven

With a parcel on its wings

Be careful how you open it

As it’s full of special things.

Inside are a million kisses

Wrapped in a million hugs

Just to say we miss you

And give you all our love.

Loved and missed always, Ann Marie, Joe, Ronan, Amy and Chloe. xxxxx

SPORT

STRONGER TOGETHER

•

Kerry

Croke

Kerry forward David Clifford has urged supporters to travel to Dublin and get behind the team for Sunday’s huge All-Ireland quarter-final against Armagh.

The Kingdom came up short against the same opposition in last year’s semi-final and the crowd, which was significantly lopsided in Armagh’s favour, playing a significant factor when the game was up for grabs.

Speaking on GAA+ as he picked up his Man of the Match award after scoring 3-7 against Cavan in Killarney, Clifford asked fans to play their part in Croker.

“The one thing I will say is just a call to our supporters to really get behind us now next week. I’m not sure if they realise the impact they can have on us in Croke Park. When you hear that Kerry crowd behind you, it’s worth five or six points to you in a game.

“So [I’m] just really, really asking the Kerry crowd to get behind us next week. It’s the biggest game of the year. It’s the game

we’ve been waiting for all year. So [I’m] really, really asking them to get behind us.”

A large attendance is expected at HQ for the fixture, which is part of a double header with Galway v Meath (1.45pm). The other two quarter-finals will be played on Saturday with Donegal v Meath at 4pm and Dublin v Tyrone at 6.15pm. Kerry go into their tie as slight underdogs, in part because of the injury crisis that has limited Jack O’Connor’s options in recent weeks. There are doubts over Mike Breen, Tony Brosnan and Paul Geaney, and it appears unlikely at this juncture that Diarmuid O’Connor will play again this season after re-injuring his shoulder against Cavan. (Jack O’Connor was due to name his team on Thursday night after this publication went to print.)

It’s an eight-day turnaround for Kerry but Armagh have had the luxury of a week off thanks to their first-place finish in Group 4 of the All-Ireland round robin. They arrive in the last eight as favourites to retain to go all the way and retain the Sam Maguire for the first time in their history.

The Saturday games will be shown live on GAA+ while the Sunday games will be live be on RTÉ.

Follow @AdamMoynihan on Twitter/X for all the latest Kerry football updates.

"It’s the game we’ve been waiting for all year. So [I’m] really, really asking them to get behind us."

HQ: Kerry manager Jack O'Connor after last year's All-Ireland semi-final at Croke Park. Photo: Harry Murphy/Sportsfile.

Kerry hoping for Croker inspiration

O’Connor and White looking forward to another show on the biggest stage of all

Jack is keen to keep the post-match press briefing short and sweet, though he is clearly in much better form here, upstairs in the Fitzgerald Stadium, than he was under the terrace in Tullamore seven days earlier.

His side have just secured their place in the last eight of the All-Ireland thanks to a decent if spotty performance against Cavan, with talisman David Clifford bagging another hat-trick. Clifford is, in his manager’s opinion, playing the best football of his life, but a heartbreaking moment for one of his teammates is the day’s main talking point.

Diarmuid O’Connor’s return from a shoulder injury lasted just minutes – seconds, really – as he appeared to do further damage when attempting to get up from a fall at the throw-in. He tried to continue but no one in attendance needed medical qualifications to instantly know that he was in trouble. At this point, any hopes that we will see him again this summer – let alone against Armagh this coming Sunday – seem far-fetched.

“It was a bit of a blow to all of us,” O’Connor says with more than a hint of disappointment in his voice. “He’s just had no luck the last few months.”

With Mike Breen (hamstring), Tony Brosnan (hamstring) and Paul Geaney (shoulder) also in the treatment room, Kerry’s squad depth is certainly being tested.

“We’ll gather the troops,” O’Connor says. “Obviously there will be a bit of doom and gloom around with all the injuries and the rest of it, but the lads are very determined to give it a good cut next weekend.”

Tony Leen of the Irish Examiner put it to O’Connor that it isn’t the first time a Kerry team will be landing in the capital with question marks and clouds hanging over them. Sometimes, things turn out just fine.

“Yeah, in ‘09 (when Kerry ended up winning the All-Ireland with O’Connor as manager) we were struggling very badly. Should have been beaten by Sligo in Tralee…”

His train of thought zooms directly from Kerry to Dublin, with no change at Mallow.

“There’s a lot of pressure on Kerry players, d’you know? From the supporters. I mean, that was a difficult environment

for the lads to play football today. So oftentimes then it’s easier to go to Croke Park, away from home, and actually express yourself and play without fear and with a bit of abandon. That’s what we’re planning on next weekend.

“It’s a great footballer’s pitch. It’s a huge pitch and there’s space there and that’s where you want to play football. This is a good pitch here as well, Fitzgerald Stadium. I just thought there were times today when the pressure got to the lads a bit, and they didn’t express themselves in the way that they could have.”

As well as hailing the performance of Man of the Match Clifford, the Dromid native also underlined the importance of getting Seánie O’Shea back into the team.

“Seánie is the spiritual leader of that group, no question about it. We missed him last week [against Meath] big time. It’s not just that he plays well himself, he gets other fellas around him to play as well. So it’s great to see him back.”

Kerry captain Gavin White is equally effusive on the topic of O’Shea’s influence.

“Seánie has been a serious leader not only this year but in years gone by. He’s one of the best players in the country. A leader on and off the pitch. So to have him playing today was a huge bonus. Last week he did his best when he wasn’t playing to try and motivate fellas on the line, which shows the character that he is. He’s a serious player to have on the pitch and we’re very grateful that he was able to make it back from injury today.”

Kerry’s on-field general is also on the same page as his boss on the topic of Croke Park and the idea that the sight of those three tall stands and colourful hill can inspire the team once more.

“We hope history repeats itself. But we’ll take the positives from today, look at the negatives, and try to rectify some of the mistakes we’ve made. We’ll go up to Croke Park in the best shape we possibly can and have a good crack off it.”

Kerry will be underdogs given their injury crisis, but Dr Crokes star White says it’s up to the players who are still standing to step up to the plate.

“It’s just ‘next man in’. Certainly Diarmuid is a big leader for us and if he doesn’t make it back for next week he will be a loss. But look, we’ll go out and try to put in a performance for him.”

The winner might take it all

Former Kerry keeper Eamonn Fitzgerald previews the All-Ireland football quarter-final between Kerry and Armagh

The road to Croker 2025 has many twists and turns, but it will be the open straight that stretches from the Kingdom to Jones’ Road on Sunday next as Kerry bid to dethrone the champions in the pick of this weekend’s games.

Why didn’t the CCCC give Kerry an earlier slot on Saturday or Sunday? So many Kerry supporters have to go to work early on Monday morning. I will get back to the thorny issue of a headlong approach to getting the All-Irelands out of the way in July and why I believe it is counterproductive.

Meanwhile, Armagh will be forewarned by the unbelievable shock of the Limerick hurlers losing out to Dublin last weekend.

This is it for Kerry. No more second chances. The winner will take a giant step to determine the resting place for Sam over the long winter ahead.

It is a big ask for Kerry and for Jack O’Connor and his management team. This could signal their last gig if beaten, and they haven’t been dealt a hand of trumps to play the game. Injuries galore will cut the game plan, and the sight of poor Diarmuid O'Connor going off the field in the first few minutes against Cavan compounds the challenge. One’s heart goes out to him, just working his

way back to midfield after a stop-start season of annoying shoulder injuries.

Checking in on Emergency Ward 10, I expect most of the walking wounded to be available for selection. Some, I believe, will be rushed back although they haven’t recovered fully from injuries.

Paudie Clifford and Seánie O’Shea come to mind. Kerry easily disposed of a poor Cavan side on Sunday last at The Park. David Clifford cut loose, scoring 3-7, and it could well have been 6-20 only for the heroics of the Cavan goalkeeper who thwarted the Fossa star on at least three more occasions. Clifford also shot a number of wides, which is inexplicable for Kerry’s best player.

Kerry won easily but it did reveal worrying aspects for next Sunday’s encounter. There is nowhere to hide in Croke Park, especially when some of your star players will be rushed back from rehabbing. One wonders what the Kerry lineup will be when it is announced later this evening.

Ryan, Foley, O’Sullivan, Ó Beaglaoich and White are certain starters in defence. Paul Murphy grabbed his opportunity to start at corner back after his usual reliable assured performance against Cavan. Stacks man Dylan Casey had made the number 2 geansaí his

own with steady performances this season and he will be unlucky, I feel, not to start, instead of the dependable Rathmore’s Murphy, who is the tried and trusted one. He will never let you down, as we have seen since his brilliant performances going back to that 2014 win.

Beaufort’s Mike Breen has eclipsed Morley all season, but he is another very injury-prone player. If fully fit for Sunday after sitting out the Cavan game, Breen will be at number 6. If unavailable, Templenoe’s Tiger will slot in. Midfield will be a minefield and the hardest to fill now that Diarmaid O’Connor and Barry Dan are out of action. I expect Joe O’Connor to start there; otherwise, Kerry will have a very inexperienced duo in a selection for Seán O’Brien and Mark O’Shea. The latter may well be the one to lose out.

In attack, the Clifford brothers, Seán O’Shea and Paul Geaney (if fit) are certainties. So, too, will be Graham O’Sullivan, an established defender but wearing the number 12 geansaí, operating as a non-scoring middle third player hustling for broken ball.

That leaves two attacking positions to fill. The likely duo will be Dylan Geaney and Micheál Burns, who will stake claims ahead of Tony Brosnan, Killian Spillane, Conor Geaney, and Dara Moynihan.

The adaptable Evan Looney, who played so well when he came on against Cavan, and Armin Heinrich will also be

in the considerations of minds of Jack O'Connor, Cian O’Neill, Aodán Mac Gearailt and James Costello. The Kerry selectors will rue not giving game time to some of the subs. Sunday’s game is no day to spring inexperienced players. Call it. My heart says Kerry, but on this occasion, the head says Armagh. I expect that the winners of Armagh v Kerry will win the All-Ireland 2025. Armagh to retain Sam.

JOHNNY FOLEY’S VIEW

In recent weeks Johnny Foley has been featured on these pages. He was a spectator at the 1953 Munster final, and two games later he won his first (and only) All-Ireland medal when Kerry defeated Armagh in the final.

I met up with the seasoned former Kerry and Strand Road goalkeeper again earlier this week and asked him for his opinions on Sunday's game.

“I am hopeful, but we will need plenty of luck. Thinking back to 1953 in Croke Park and our league matches against Armagh in Tralee, it will be close. We will need to avoid any more injuries. This is a very open championship race.

“Our defence is suspect, and we need to have those holes plugged. We are lucky to have the Clifford brothers; only for them, we wouldn’t still be in the race. Hopeful, but not overconfident,” concluded Johnny Foley as he looks forward to his 92nd birthday in August. What a man!

Brave minors snatch victory at the death

ALL-IRELAND MFC SEMI-FINAL

Kerry 1 - 19 | Mayo 3 - 10

CUSACK PARK, ENNIS

Heartbreak once more for Mayo, this time in the minor final as top scorer Ben Kelliher inspired Kerry to a nerve-wracking three-point win.

Mayo substitute Oran Murphy scored a magnificent goal in the 48th minute to level the game. A minute later, Conor Hession had Mayo in front.

But Kerry managed to level the game again via Gearóid White before some intense injury time drama which saw the Kingdom prevail in what was a magnificent battle between these two fine sides. Kerry added the winning points through the boots of Nick Lacey and Kelliher (two-point free), qualifying for their first All-Ireland final since 2020. They will play Tyrone on July 6 at Newbridge. Kelleher scored eight points including two two-pointers. Also to the fore were John Curtin (1-1), free-taker Gearóid White (0-3), and Kevin Griffin (0-5 with two two-pointers). Isn’t there a lesson there for the Kerry seniors on Sunday next? Three or four two-pointers may make all the difference. If the Kerry minors can deliver four in a game, can we expect the seniors Kerry to do likewise?

Will Wayne Quillinan’s resilient minor squad claim Kerry’s 17th minor All-Ireland, or will bogey team Tyrone thwart

No roar from the Lions at the Aviva

Nothing in the rugby world quite compares with being picked for the Lions, as even the unflappable great Moss Keane once told me.

Andy Farrell’s Lions of 2025 got off to a shaky start at the Aviva Stadium last weekend, losing to Argentina. Rugby pundit Jack MacGowan stepped off the fairways of Laytown-Bettystown to give me his take on the team.

Last weekend was a stark reminder of how difficult it is to weld together forty-plus rugby players from four different countries into a cohesive unit, in such a short period. An understrength, cobbled-together Argentina (who didn't award caps for the game) gave Farrell’s chosen players a lesson in teamwork, spirit and a sense of togetherness.

Much better than the 2021 tour opener when the Lions walloped an outclassed Japan outfit in Murrayfield. The Lions will underestimate Australia at their peril! Nothing is guaranteed to enrage and infuriate a red-bloodied Aussie than a team of condescending Poms supported by 40,000 Hooray Henries in red jerseys arriving in their country as overwhelming favourites to give the colonials a lesson in any sporting pursuit.

tional insult and will then exaggerate it accordingly to stoke up fury. Also, a measure of their commitment is their appointment of a Kiwi coach, Joe Schmidt, to lead their team.

Readers of the Killarney Advertiser will recall previous comments on games involving the Lions. I recall the terrible injury meted out to ROG (Ronan O’Gara) and also the no-nonsense pep talk of Donal Lenihan when he steeled the Lions to victory.

Corkonians come from the Rebel County with a pride in the blood and bandages. Now, with Limerick shocked by Dublin, the way is open for the Rebels to win the MacCarthy Cup. I digress, but Cork are Cork, whatever the shape of the ball.

Back to the Lions. New Zealanders rank a close second to the Poms for the Aussies. Nothing matters but winning the three test matches, which start on Saturday, July 19 in Brisbane. Until then, the Lions play five games to sort out their top 23 players. They will romp through these as the Aussies won't expose their top guys and will feed the Lions cannon fodder. They won't learn much or get battle-hardened.

the Kingdom just like they did at U20s level?

Elsewhere, Kerry LGFA have got the easiest of the quarter-final pairings as they bid to retain their All-Ireland Brendan Martin Cup. They are set to play Kildare in Tralee on Saturday, July 5 at 7.30pm. If they win that their semi-final opponents will be either Meath or Tipperary.

RIP DARRAGH MCCARTHY

Darragh McCarthy was an inspiring, young, larger than life hurler with Midleton and MTU who passed away unexpectedly in March. It is testimony to the high regard in which he was held that the junior hurling championship for 3rd level colleges and universities has been officially renamed as the Corn Mhic Cárthaigh (McCarthy Cup) in his honour. He was the star player with Midleton when they won the Cork U21 and Intermediate titles in 2023 and 2024. Midleton is the home club of that great John Fenton.

Midleton have decided to retire the number 10 geansaí for the upcoming season, an amazing tribute to an amazing and talented person.

It is a poignant tribute for his parents, Aoife and Niall, who watched him play the leading role in this year’s cup final against DCU shortly before his passing.

Be prepared, Andy Farrell and his squad. They will be greeted by a sabre-toothed and vitriolic press who will deem any careless comment or loose word from the tourists as a na-

The Tour games are a sellout with national pride for Australia on the line. History shows that touring sides are most vulnerable in the first test before they get a settled team. Brisbane on July 19 is all that matters.

Centenary celebrations for Kerry FC

Kerry FC celebrated its 100th game in the League of Ireland with a 2-1 win at home to Bray on Friday.

The Mounthawk patrons were rocking with delight as early as the 11th second (yes, that is no typo) after getting a tonic start of an opportunistic goal.

From the kick-off, Seán McGrath played the ball back to Tim-Oliver Hiemer, who went route one. It looked like it would be dealt with by the Bray defence but Kennedy Amechi diverted attention, and James Corcoran messed up his clearance. This gave Amechi the perfect opportunity to slot the ball home into an empty net. Kerry were 1-0 up even before some members of the packed venue even realised.

Five minutes into the second half, Bray Wanderers were awarded a penalty when goal scorer Amechi took down Jamie Ryan. Oliver Moran pointed to the spot and Max Murphy scored to make it 1-1. Would Kerry concede a late goal, their Achilles heel in the past?

In desperation to secure a winner in the eighty-fourth minute, substitute centre back Abel Alabi was brought on up front to replace Daniel Okwute, with the idea being that the big man would pose problems for the Bray defence, and he did just that, bagging a goal to collect all three points.

In Monday evening’s clash, Kerry lost 1-0 away to Cobh Ramblers.

Swedish star Hevinder signs for St Paul’s

Lovisa Hevinder is set to becomes the first female Swede to ply her trade in Killarney as the Stockholm native makes the move to Irish Super League runners-up Utility Trust St Paul’s.

She arrives in Ireland via the University of Texas at Tyler Athletics where she spent her college career. Indeed, on February 1 this year she set a new record for the Patriots when she netted her 213th three pointer in their win over Oklahoma Christian.

Hevinder was a regular starter in her final year as she contributed 7.2 points per game, 5.5 rebounds per game and dished out 82 assists, an accumulation of four years of effort and honesty. This was duly recognised as she was named to the LSC Athletic Performance All Conference Team.

She has represented her native Sweden at underage level and memorably played a leading role in their U16 European Championship win in 2018. Standing at just over 6ft tall, she will be looking to bring her height and athleticism to the

fore in the forward position. She will join fellow new signings Maisie Burnham and Tara Cousins in due course before the start of the Women's Super League season in October.

Killarney swimmers claim 35 medals at Munster Festival

Thirty-two Killarney Swimming Club members attended the Munster Swim Festival at UL on Sunday, bringing home an impressive haul of thirty-five medals between them.

This was a brilliant end-of-season gala for swimmers across all squads as they competed against 18 other Munster Clubs, with countless PBs being clocked amidst the fun and excitement of meeting friends and rivals.

Daniel Cremin took the gold medal in the

Sheehan and Ronan O'Leary also made it to the Superfinals with Ronan finishing in 4th place, Zarah in 5th and Cora 8th.

Divo Lucic Kovacevic, Samuel O'Neill, May O'Mahony and Orlaith Mackey all made it into the final four of the Skins Events with Samuel placing 3rd. Overall, it was a great day for the club, with Killarney swimmers delivering strong performances while demonstrating noticeable improvement and competitive spirit.

THE WEEK IN PICTURES

Killarney Celtic

CADBURY KICK FIT is now at Killarney Celtic. Ladies, try something new, join up, meet new people. It's only 1 hour per week from 7pm-8pm. Start date was Wednesday May 28th and the programme continues on Wednesdays.

LOTTO: Numbers drawn 5, 7, 14, 19. No jackpot winner. Match 3 winners received €40. Next jackpot €15,000 on Monday June 30th. Jackpot is capped at €15,000 with the additional €200 going on to the 1st jackpot after the next jackpot win. Tickets available from The Dungeon Bookshop, Amber Shop (Top of Ross Road), club members and online through Clubzap.

KILLARNEY CELTIC SUMMER

CAMPS:Week 1 is from Monday June 30th - Friday July 4th. Week 2 is from Monday July 14th -Friday July 18th. Bookings through Clubzap Clubs App.

U12: Our U12 Green squad competed in the TFA Elite ESEI Cup in UL. The squad acquitted themselves very well against some top-class opponents.

WELL DONE to our Football For All section who attended a training session at MTU with Paddy O'Reilly FAI FFA Programme co-ordinator, Paul Smyth FAI FFA Development Officer and Peter Murphy FAI Kerry Development Officer. U17: Charleville Cheese U17 Women's League Final - Inter Kenmare 1-5 Killarney Celtic. Ali Bowler 2, Holly Forrest, Hannah Casey, Lauren Buckley. Celtic captured the U17 Women's League title after a clear-cut win over Inter Kenmare. Celtic opened the scoring when Sarah Warren set up Holly Forrest to finish to the net. Kenmare bounced back to level matters to leave the sides deadlocked at the break. Ali Bowler put Celtic back in front before Hannah Casey made it 3-1. Celtic were now dominant, and Ali Bowler beat the offside trap to slot home. Lauren Buckley capped off a fine team performance when she smashed the ball to the roof of the net to leave Celtic clear winners on the night. Well done to all the players who contributed throughout the season and to the coaches.

Mastergeeha

LOTTO: There was no winner on Friday 20th June 2025 of the Jackpot €8,200. Numbers drawn were 08, 18, 21, 27. Consolation prizes of €50 went to Tom O’Connor, Kilbrean, Mary Mangan, Knocknahoe, Con & Ann Marie O’Riordan, Dermot O’Neill, Mastergeeha. The next draw will be on Friday 27th June for Jackpot of €8,400.

Killarney Legion GAA

U12 GIRLS: Churchill was the venue for our Under 12 girls' Go Game on Wednesday evening. In glorious weather conditions in Tralee Bay, the girls played against Churchill in two ten a side games. They played really well against a wellcoached and good home side. Thanks to

the host club for having us and the referees for excellent officiating.

U14 GIRLS: Both our U14 teams had semi-final this week but unfortunately came out the wrong side of the result in each of the games. The Division 2 came up against the powerhouse that is Southern Gaels on Monday while on Thursday the second team had a good battle with Laune Rangers. The season continues though with the East Kerry competitions and the U13 Club Championship all down for decision.

KERRY COMMUNITY GAMES: Four Legion lads represented Spa Muckross In the Under 12 relay in Kerry Community Games in Castleisland on Saturday. They came 2nd in the Final and were very unlucky not to win, Oisin Sheehan O’Donoghue, Diarmuid O’Regan, John Hegarty and Conor Scannell were the members of the flying brigade.

KIERAN MOLONEY: The star that is Kieran Moloney continues to shine in the Athletics world as he successfully annexed the Munster U15 Discus competition during the week. Well done, Kieran!

BABY JOY: Congratulations to Senior player James O’Donoghue and Christina Tangney as they welcomed a beautiful baby girl into the world over the weekend. Glad to report that both mother and baby Sofia are doing well while James is busy training for the night feeds.

DEEPEST SYMPATHIES: The Club extends its sympathies to the family of Chriss O’Connor, late of Kanturk. Her son in law Eoin Carroll is a very proactive member of our Club. Also we remember the late Pat Curran of Woodlawn Park. Pats daughter Mary helps out in the Saturday Morning Academy where her children attend. Also to the family of the late Kathleen Morrissey of Kilcummin.

LOTTO: Results Monday June 16th. Numbers were 5, 6, 12, 27. Bonus 14. No Jackpot Winner. Match 3s / Lucky Dips. Noreen O’Doherty. Jerome Corkery. Declan Grimes.

Spa GAA

RESULT: Spa welcomed near neighbours Dr Crokes to Spa @ 14.00 today for round 10 of the Credit Union SFL Division 1. Languishing in the bottom third of the division before throw in meant a win and a much needed 2 points was critical for our survival in Division 1. A point from play from the impressive David Shaw on 29 mins gave Dr Crokes a lead of 0-10 to Spa’s 0-3 just before the break. A free for Spa on the 30 min mark was brilliantly converted by Gary Vaughan (off the ground) to earn Spa 2 points and the sides went in at Half-Time Dr Crokes 0-10 to Spa 0-5. Dr Crokes started brightly in the second half with both David Shaw and Michael Casey scoring a point each, (Shaw from a free & Casey from play). With Spa trailing now by 7 points on 34 mins, things were looking ominous, however up stepped David Spillane with a timely goal and reduce the margin to

Dr Crokes 0-12 to Spa 1-05. Dr Crokes responded well with 3 points in succession Mikey Casey (Play) David Shaw (Free) & Liam Randles (Play) leaving the scoreline Dr Crokes 0-15 to Spa 1-05 on 42 mins. Following this, Spa responded with our best spell of the match, Cian Tobin with 2 points from frees on 44 & 50 mins followed by a goal from Niall Mc Carthy on 51 mins, a point from play from Evan Cronin on 52 mins & another point from play by Joey McCarthy to level the scoreline Dr Crokes 0-15 to Spa 2-09 on 55 mins. Cian Murphy put over a two pointer on 56 mins only for this to be cancelled out by Shane Murphy for Dr Crokes on 58mins again leaving the sides level coming up to full time. The final two scores of the game came from the boots of Evan Cronin & Gary Vaughan giving Spa a vital win on a scoreline of Spa 2-13 Dr Crokes 0-17.

Dr Crokes GAA

SFL DIV 1: Dr. Crokes 0:17 Spa 2:13. After a tightly contested encounter filled with plenty of drama, we fell short to Spa despite a valiant effort. We started well with Mikey Casey opening the scoring in the first minute of play. Spa looked dangerous early on, forcing numerous goal saves in the opening 10 minutes. By halftime we seemed well in control, leading on a scoreline of 0:10 to 0:05. Spa started the second half the brighter, with an early goal in the 5th minute. Mikey Casey, David Shaw and Liam Randles all kept the scoreboard ticking and we continued to lead. Our luck seemed to run out in the 16th minute when Liam Randles was black carded. Our opposition utilised this and raised their second green flag of the day. Despite a Shane Murphy 2 pointer in the closing stages of the game, it was unfortunately a little too late to recover the deficit. Our final game of the league will be away to Ballymac.

LOTTO took place June 23rd. Numbers drawn were 5, 16, 21, 27. Jackpot of €8,300 was NOT WON. 7 patrons matched 3 numbers and receive €60 each. Jackpot for draw on June 30th will be €8,600. Play online.

BINGO: Dr. Crokes Bingo continues every Sunday in St. Mary's Parish Hall. Doors will open at 7pm with the first game commencing at 8pm.

CONDOLENCES to the Hennigan Family on the recent passing of Mary. Condolences also to Sean O'Donoghue and the O'Donoghue family on the death of their mother Tess and to the O'Shea family on the passing of Martina's mother Kathleen.

NOTES: If anyone has anything they want to add to our club notes please email communications.drcrokes.kerry@ gaa.ie.

Fossa GAA

LOTTO: The numbers drawn on 22/06/2025 for a jackpot of €11,100 were 1, 9, 19, 21. There was no jackpot

winner. The €40 consolation prize winners were Colin Miller, Brendan Coffey, Michael D O’Mahony, Bridie Doyle, Cliona O’Sullivan and Mary Ferris. Tickets are available from our sellers and can also be bought online.

COUNTY LEAGUE DIV 2: Fossa played Milltown/Castlemaine in the penultimate game of the county league on Sunday knowing that a win was necessary to keep their Div 2 hopes alive for next season. The opening minutes of the game was tentative with both sides playing cautiously, but Milltown/Castlemaine were three points to the good before Lee Lenihan kicked Fossa’s opening score with a two-pointer. The visitors dominated proceedings from here and while Fossa did kick a few scores through Emmett O’Shea, Harry Buckley and Rian Colleran they trailed 0-5 to 0-12 at the break. Fossa brought a bit more urgency in the second half but ultimately Milltown/Castlemaine controlled matters. Scores from Tadgh and Emmett O’Shea and Ted O’Gorman briefly cut the deficit to four points but they ran out of time, and it finished Milltown/Castlemaine 0-17 Fossa 0-11. Team: Lee Lenihan 0-2, Dan O’Connell, Paddy Sheehan, Brian Myers, Rian Colleran 0-1, Kieran O’Sullivan, Ted O’Gorman 0-1, Cian O’Shea, Darren Ryan, Eoin Talbot, Matt Rennie, Killian Buckley, Harry Buckley 0-1, Emmett O’Shea 0-4, Sam Buckley David Butler, Tadgh O’Shea 0-2, Dan O’Keeffe, Rocco Sheehan. CO LEAGUE DIV 5: Fossa B 1-9 Scartaglin 1-9. With just the bare 15 players available, Fossa B put in a very spirited performance to share the points with Scartaglin. Playing with the aid of a slight breeze in the 1st half, Fossa led by 0-6 to 0-2 at halftime with the points coming from Jack Clifford (0-3), Diarmuid Carr, Kevin McCarthy and a 45 from Peadar Kelliher. With an injury to Conor Quirke just before half time, the Fossa mgt team had to dig deep and unleashed Merry Talbot from selector duties to a corner forward role. It was a ding dong second half as Scartaglin threw everything they had at us. With Scartaglin holding Merry scoreless in the second half, it was Jack Clifford who contributed another 1-3 to ensure we got a well-deserved share of the points.

Kilcummin GAA

SENIORS: A share of the spoils after an entertaining contest was enough to secure the Credit Union Senior Football County League Division 1 status for next season as James Foley’s side battled back from 9 points down to after the opening quarter of play in which Glenflesk opened really strong. The away side helped with an early goal shot into a 1-3 to 0-0 lead before Paul O’Shea opened the scoring and despite a brace of points by Philip O’Leary and another white flag from Chris O’Leary, Glenflesk still held a healthy advantage of 1-9 to 0-4 after 15 minutes. It was better from the home side in the second quarter who managed to close

the gap to just four at the break 1-14 to 0-13 with Paul O’Shea hitting five points. Glenflesk held a five-point lead by the end of the third quarter 1-18 to 0-16 before Kilcummin made the better of things coming down the back straight as Mark O’Shea found his mark with a brace of points before brother Paul hit a fine twopoint effort to reduce the gap to a single score. Glenflesk found a vital score to stop the Kilcummin run to go two points clear before points from Keelan O’Shea and Matt Keane levelled up matters and when Paul O’Shea found the range with a long rang point Kilcummin went ahead for the first time. Glenflesk however managed a good counter attack late on and found a late equaliser.

JUNIORS: A crucial Colm Janot goal helped secured another vital draw for Kilcummin in their Credit Union Senior Football County League Division 7 Cup on Saturday evening away to Listowel Emmets. The win moves Kilcummin to 9 points and one clear of the chasing pack in the Division 7 Cup with one game left to play which will see the team play host to John Mitchels.

Glenflesk GAA

FLESK FEST 25: Join us for an unforgettable weekend of music, dancing, fun and community vibes at Barraduff Community Field on July 18th, 19th & 20th. Live music, food trucks, fully licensed bar & cocktails. Family fun, Dance Hall Friday, The Big Stage Saturday & Family Fun Day Sunday. It's sure to be a great weekend! Tickets available online.

COUNTY LEAGUE: Results: Division 1 Kilcummin 0:23 Glenflesk 1:20. Division 6 Beaufort 4:17 Glenflesk 2:08.

U14 CHAMPIONS: Well done to the Glenflesk U14 girls on being crowned Division 6 County League Champions. They beat Daingean Uí Chúis in the final.

KERRY MINORS: Congratulations to Liam O’Brien and the Kerry Minor team on reaching the All-Ireland Final following their win against Mayo last weekend. COMMUNITY GAMES: Well done to all the participants who competed and represented Glenflesk so well at the athletics County finals last weekend. Congratulations to the following participants who ran great races and won County medals: Kaylee Lynch gold in U8 60m, Aoife McSwiney bronze in U8 60m, Séimí Favier silver in U8 60m, Dylan O’Connor silver in U10 100m and Zara Nagle bronze in U12 600m. Aoife, Séimí, Dylan and Zara now go on to represent Glenflesk and Kerry at Regional finals in early August and Kaylee goes straight to National finals in late August to represent Glenflesk and Kerry. Fantastic achievement for these young athletes.

BLITZ: The Nóirín Lynch Memorial blitz was held in Barraduff last week between pupils from Knockanes, Glenflesk, Barraduff and Raheen National Schools. Congratulations to Barraduff who beat Knockanes in the final after extra time.

Team captain Rebecca O'Donoghue accepted the trophy on behalf of her school. It was a day of brilliant football, thrilling games and great sportsmanship from all involved.

NOTES: If you would like anything added in the notes, please email to pro.glenflesk.kerry@gaa.ie.

Listry GAA

LOTTO: 4, 9, 10, 15. Not Won. €100 Teresa Commins, Holy Cross Gardens, Killarney. €5 Danny Griffin. €50 Hailey O'Riordan, Ballyhar. €25 Mary Rogan (online). €25 Amanda Howe Rockfield (online). Jackpot next week € 10,300.

U16: Co League Div 1 Rd 3. Listry are away to Killarney Legion at 7pm on Thursday 3rd July.

KERRY MINORS: Congratulations to Danny Murphy, David McCarthy and the Kerry minor team and management who won the All-Ireland semi-final now qualifying for the All-Ireland final.

East Kerry GAA

FIXTURES: East Kerry Fr. Galvin Cup 2025 sponsored by Aquilla Club, Gleneagle Hotel. First team named will be at home. Preliminary Round - Currow v Kilgarvan. Semi-Finals - Cordal v Currow/ Kilgarvan, Scartaglen v Listry.

GNEEVEGUILLA ACADEMY COACHES

WORKSHOP: Coaches working in East Kerry clubs in advance of the Kelloggs Cul Camps during the summer period hosted Gneeveguilla club academy last Saturday. Seventy boys and girls took part in the coaching session on the day. Eighteen coaches gained valuable experience developing a variety of activities over the sixty-minute session. Club coaches observed the session on the day with positive feedback by everyone in attendance at the session. Thanks to Vince Cooper East Kerry GDC for organising the wellrun event linking in with Sean O’Keeffe (Gneeveguilla) club to complete the workshop. Coaches delivering the session gained great practical experience in advance of busy summer season.

KERRY MINORS: Well done to the Kerry Minor team in reaching the All-Ireland

Beaufort GAA

RESULTS: Glenbeigh/Glencar 1.14 Beaufort 1.14 in senior Co League, Div. 1, Round 10. Beaufort 4.17 Glenflesk 2.08 in Co League, Div. 6, Round 10. Beaufort 3.16 Currow 8.13 in U14 Girls Co League, Div. 4 semi-final.

LOTTO: There was no winner of Beaufort G.A.A. Club lotto jackpot of €6,400 on Sunday, 22nd June. Numbers: 5, 18, 22, 23. Consolation Prizes: €80 Deborah and Alice c/o Kissane's shop. €50 Jimmy Kennedy, Gap of Dunloe, Michelle Kissane, Carnahone, Meabh Harold, Beaufort. The next draw for a jackpot of €6,600 will be on Sunday, 6th July. Thank you for your support of our lotto.

GOLF CLASSIC: Beaufort GAA Club annual Golf Classic was held on Friday, 13th June in Beaufort Golf Club. It is one of the main fundraisers for the Club. Thanks you to the organisers, main sponsor, M.F. Decorating, all the team and tee box sponsors and Beaufort Golf Club for hosting the event. Results: 1st Inverary Guesthouse Team 90pts, 2nd Owens McCarthy Team 90pts, 3rd Gerard Doyle Team 88pts, 4th Jer’s Kerry Gardens Team 88pts. ‘Longest Drive’ Dara Kealy (Fexco). ‘Nearest the Pin’ Donie Kiely (Sean Kelly).

GOOD LUCK to Mike Breen, Seán O’Brien and the Kerry senior team and management in the All-Ireland senior football quarter final against Armagh next weekend.

Killarney Golf & Fishing Club (Ladies)

RESULTS: Ladies Open Day played on Thursday 19th June 2025 at Mahony’s Point Course. Sponsored by The International Hotel. 1st Kay O’Connor, Sinead O’Shea, Mary Moynihan 89pts, 2nd Tina Moriarty, Joan Cantillon, Patricia Goodwin 88pts, 3rd Susan Coakley, Marcella O’Flynn, Sandra Nyhan 86pts. Mixed Fourball Open Day played on Friday 20th June 2025 at Mahony’s Point Course Sponsored by Walsh Bros. Electrical. Winner Annette Sheehan & Joseph

Geaney, (Killarney) 47pts, 2nd Anne Van Der Molen & Tim Van Der Molen, (Kanturk) 46pts, 3rd Jacinta O’Farrell & Jerry O’Farrell, (Castlemartyr) 46pts. Walsh Colour Print GOY 18 Hole Single Stableford played on Mahony’s Point Course on 21st & 22nd June 2025. Winner Eileen Devane 43 pts (25). Division 1 Winner Leila Moloney 43 pts (14), Runner-Up Mege Dalton 39 pts (10). Division 2 Winner Annette McNeice 41 pts (18), Runner-Up Maria Murphy 40 pts (19). Division 3 Winner Mary MacMonagle 42 pts (37), Runner-Up Sinead Lynch 42 pts (23). 13 Hole Competition - Noritta O’Connor 32 pts (28).

NEXT FIXTURE will be Lady Captain Máire Murphy Prize is on 29th July 2025 18 Hole Single Stroke & 11 Hole Single Stableford on Killeen Course.

Ross Golf Club (Ladies)

CHALLENGES CUP TEAM: Congratulations to the Ross GC on their great win over the Castlerosse in the Challenge Cup. Best of luck in the next round.

LIEBHERR GOLF CLASSIC: A great win for Ross GC in Killarney last week as the President Betty O’Farrell, Lady Captain Elaine Casey and Breda O’Farrell representing Bricin Restaurant won the Liebherr Golf Classic in Killarney G&FC (missing from picture is Paddy McGuire, Bricin Restaurant). Well done to all.

WEDNESDAY MORNINGS MEET & PLAY: Meet and play every Wednesday morning. Meet in the Club House 10.00am tee off 10.30am. All members welcome. GOLF LESSONS: Gordon Howard is available to give golf lessons. Please contact Gordon directly in the Club.

Ross Golf Club (Men)

RESULTS: June 21st & 22nd we held the June Medal Competition kindly sponsored by The Royal Hotel, Killarney. The winners were 1st John Cuskelly 66 (14), 2nd Conor Brosnan 67 (16). Best Gross Peter Wickham 78. Division 1 - 1st D.J Hayes 71 (12), 2nd Emmet Scanlan 71 (11). Division 2 - 1st Ger Flynn 70 (13), 2nd Johnny Brosnan 71 (13). Division 3 - 1st Tom Shields 70 (30), 2nd John Hurley 72 (23). On Tuesday June 17th the first Open Day in the Summer Series took place. The winners were 1st Don McCarthy 22pts, 2nd John Cuskelly 20 pts. On Thursday June 19th our Seniors held a 10-hole stableford competition. The winners were 1st M J Casey 23 pts (11), 2nd Lee Grange 22 pts (10), 3rd John Ivory 21 pts (9), 4th Donal Hayes 21pts (10). On Friday 20th we held our Friday Evening Mixed 10-hole scramble. The winners were 1st John Cuskelly, Margaret Hickey, Denis O'Riordan, Sean Hickey. 2nd John Ivory, Peg Wickham, Mike O'Leary, Elaine Casey. 3rd Daniel Ling, Kitty O'Grady, Niall O’Connell, Michael O’Leary. 4th Donald McSweeney, Adam Allman, Brenda Kelliher.

FIXTURES: On Tuesday 24th the Summer Open Days Series continues with the 9-hole open competition. Members € 10, non-members €20. All details available in the clubhouse. On Friday 27th our Friday evening mixed 10-hole scrambles will continue. Please get your name on the entry sheet before 5.30pm to enable us to be playing golf by 6pm. No Late entries allowed. On Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th we will hold a club sponsored stableford competition. The usual process applies for tee time bookings for both days. Castlerosse Golf Club (Ladies)

RESULTS: Congratulations to the winners of this week’s competition. 18-hole Stableford - 1st Kay Malone. 9-hole Stableford - 1st Nuala Ward. 2nd Gina O’Shea. 3rd Barbara O’Shea. Some of our members represented the club in the Munster Women’s Challenge Trophy in Ross GC on Saturday. They didn’t qualify on this occasion, but it was an enjoyable day for the players and caddies.

FIXTURES: The weekly competition this week will be held over Friday and Saturday.

SOCIAL GOLF: Social Golf continues on Wednesday morning. Meet at 10.15am to play at 10.30am. Book on BRS. MIXED SCRAMBLES: Mixed scrambles every Tuesday at 6pm. Visitors welcome. GOLF LESSONS: Kieran Crehan is available to give golf lessons. Contact Kieran directly on 087 2748777.

Beaufort Golf Club (Ladies)

RESULTS: 22nd June, Lady Captain Susan Darby’s Prize. Winner - Karen Tess (13) 71 Nett. 2nd - Josephine O’Shea (47) 72 Nett. Best Gross - Grainne McShortall (15) 91 Gross. 3rd - Marie Flood (26) 74 Nett. 4th - Máire Ní Loinsigh (19) 74 Nett. Front 9 - Rosaleen Kennedy (35) 35.5 Nett. Back 9 - Niamh O’Donoghue (48) 37 Nett. Past Captain - Mary O’Shea (40) 76 Nett. Nearest the Pin - Rosaleen Kennedy. Longest Drive - Karen Tess.

Beaufort Golf Club (Men)

RESULTS: Men’s Captain's Prize on 22nd June sponsored by Anthony McElligott and Fergus Foley, CRL Oil and the Men’s Club. 1st - John Egan (18) 68 nett. 2nd - Michael Coffey (19) 69 nett (back 9). Best Gross Stephen Crookes (4) 76. 3rd - Padraig Dennehy (22) 69 nett (back 9). 4th - John Carroll (19) 69 nett. 5th - Brian White (23) 70 nett. 6th - Declan Murphy (15) 71 nett. Front Nine - Michael Conway. Back Nine - Jerome McCarthy. Past Captain’s Prize - Joe McMahon. Nearest the Pin - David Lynch. Longest Drive - Mike Gleeson. Guests’ Prize - Jonjo Tangney (Maine Valley).

FIXTURES: Competition 28/29th June 4 Ball Betterball sponsored by Clifford’s Groundcare.

Deerpark Pitch & Putt Club

TRALEE SCRATCH CUP: While it was a sad week in general for Pitch & Putt in Kerry,

Damien Fleming was the winner of last Saturday’s Tralee Senior Men’s Scratch Cup with a score of 23 under par. James Foley won the Junior B Men’s prize with a score of six over par as Eileen McCarthy was the Ladies Gross prize-winner.

KEVIN MCCARRON RIP: The club was saddened to hear of the death of former County Board Chairman Kevin McCarron of Listowel last Saturday. Kevin was a regular visitor to our club in many different roles as a player and administrator and foremost in our thoughts are his son Bobby, his brothers Mike (a former member of our club) and Declan, his extended family and friends. May he Rest in Peace.

SUNDAY DRAWS: Two Ball BetterballFirst Nett: John Murphy & Aidan O’Keeffe 37½, Gross: Dave Spillane & Dan Kiely 48 and Second Nett: Niall O’Loughlin & Mike ‘Seve’ O’Leary 41. Hole-in-One: Sean O’Brien (9th Hole).

SUMMER SERIES: In association with the Flesk Restaurant- Wednesday June 18th Results- Winners: Hugh O’Sullivan, Jean O’Shea, Gavin Moynihan and Fionn Culloty, Second: Gearoid Cronin Dan Kiely & Adam Twomey, Third: Noel Moynihan, Paddy Murphy, Thomas O’Sullivan & Liam Lyne.

CLUB MEMBERSHIP: Please note at a recent Committee Meeting it was decided to not consider membership applications for new U18 members from July 1st for the remainder of the 2025 season. We ask anyone U18 and interested in joining to have an application made prior to next Monday June 30th.

UPCOMING FIXTURES: Our Captain John McGrath’s prize takes place on Friday next July 4th while our Chairman Sean Kelly’s prize takes place on July 11th, please note with both presentations taking place on the night. Further details will be sent to members in advance.

BEST WISHES: To our U16’s heading to the Munster U16 Matchplay Championships in Riverdale, Nenagh, Co Tipperary this Saturday.

DEEPEST SYMPATHIES: The club also offers its sympathies this week to the Morrissey family of Kilcummin on the death of Kathleen Morrissey.

Killarney Valley AC

RESULTS: A huge congratulations to Ba-

batunde Smith who soared to victory in the High Jump at the Tailteann Games, clearing a personal best of 1.88m. This win secures his place on Team Ireland for the upcoming Schools International in Derby, UK, taking place July 19th-20th.

MUNSTER: The Munster ‘B’ Juvenile T&F Championships were held in Templemore on Saturday and Killarney Valley AC had some proud performances and podium finishes. Eanna Mulligan was 1st in the U14 Boys Shot Put. Allie Casey was 1st in the U11 Girls 60m Sprint.

TULLAMORE: The U12 National Championships were held in Tullamore on Sunday. Kayla O’Sullivan finished 6th in her heat of the 60m Sprint. Lucy Devane jumped 1.20m in the High Jump narrowly missing the Final. Our 4x100 Girls Relay Team of Lucy Devane, Kayla O’Sullivan, Lily Horgan, Chloe O’Sullivan and Marcela Piechowiak finished 7th in their heat. Congrats and well done to all.

CAMPS: Our Summer Camps are booking out fast on our website. You have 3 weeks to choose from. 21st -25th July, 28th July – 1st Aug, and 11th Aug – 15th Aug. Book now to avoid any disappointment. INFO: All relevant information on our club is on our website www.killarneyvalleyac. ie.

Fossa Bridge Club

RESULTS: 19th June. 1st Tim & Mai Corcoran. 2nd Hazel O’Connelly & Kathleen Coen. 3rd Ron Carron & Ciaran Broadbery. Well done to all.

SUMMER BRIDGE continues every Thursday morning at 10am at The Castlerosse Hotel. All bridge players are welcome.

Kilcummin Community Games

FINALS: There were fantastic performances in the County Finals in Castleisland last weekend, with many of our athletes progressing from the heats into semi-finals and finals. Many of our athletes enjoyed their first County finals. Clodagh Ahern U10 60M hurdles final, Emily Brosnan U8 60M final, Conall O’Mara U12 100m final. Mia Lynch O’Doherty ran a fantastic 100m final to come in 4th and claim the pewter medal. Charlie Jay Kelliher ran a steady race and finished strong in the U12 600m to get the pew-

ter medal. Our U12 Boys relay ran an outstanding final to claim the bronze medal, just pipped on the line for the silver medal. A fantastic performance by all the boys, Charlie Jay Kelliher, Conall O’Mara, Fionn O’Donoghue, Jack Sheahan, Dara O’Donoghue. We are very proud of all our athletes today. Sinead Coleman ran a great race to get a bronze in the U14 80m Hurdles. Sinead will now go on to compete in the regionals. Dan Barry ran a superb race in U14 100m final and won the pewter in a very tight contest. Congratulations to both Dan and Sinead. Well done also to our U10 mixed relay who competed Sunday morning in very wet conditions on track. Well done to everyone who competed over the 2 days, and thanks to all the parents who supported them. Kilcummin Community games are very proud of you all. For more information please see our Facebook page. Kilcummin

CHESSIRELAND: Killarney Chess Club: join our summer Chess Club – a great place to learn, play and make new friends! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, this club is designed to help you improve your concentration, chess and critical thinking skills, while also having a bit of craic! Chess lessons are taking place in Kilcummin GAA Club Bar. Started Tuesday 24th June from 5:00pm6:00pm/6:00 - 7:00pm. Children ages – 6-12 years old. Fee: €10 per session/€75 for 9 weeks, families: 1st child €10/every child after €5. Maximum 30 children per session. Contact Tomás – 087 1755689 or Oisín – 087 3229879 for more information.

KILCUMMIN COMMUNITY GAMES: Congratulations to Ronan O'Leary, Colm Fleming, Aodhan O'Halloran who were placed second in the U13 “Ireland in the past” category project County Final. The boys now go forward to the All –Ireland in Carlow in July.

UPCOMING CEMETERY MASSES: Upcoming Cemetery Masses will be celebrated in the following grounds. Killarney Burial Ground, Knockeendubh: Monday the 30th of June @ 7pm. Muckross Abbey: Monday 7th of July, Pilgrimage at 6.30pm with Mass at Abbey Graveyard at 7.30pm. Holy Cross Mass: Wednesday the 2nd of July @ 7.30pm. Old Kilcummin Mass: Wednesday the 6th of August @ 7.30pm. New Cemetery Mass: Monday the 4th of August at 7pm. Please spread the word to those living away who would like to attend.

WEDDING ANNIVERSARIES: Significant Wedding Anniversaries will be celebrated on Saturday 6th September in Our Lady of Lourdes Church Kilcummin, for couples in our parish and outside with special Anniversaries this year e.g. 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60. You are invited to renew your marriage vows at this Mass. Please spread the word.