issue-07-13th-March

JOB OPPORTUNITY

Strong Turnout for Enterprise Week Events in Kerry

More than 300 businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs from across the county attended a series of events organised by Kerry Local Enterprise Office (LEO) as part of Local Enterprise Week 2026.

The nationwide initiative, which ran from March 2nd to March 6th, is designed to support people who are starting a business or looking to grow an existing enterprise. Organised by the Local Enterprise Offices with support from Enterprise Ireland and local authorities, the programme featured a wide range of events throughout the country.

In Kerry, participants had the opportunity to attend 11 different events, covering key business topics such as financial planning, raising investment, exporting, improving online presence and understanding future business trends including sustainable procurement and artificial intelligence.

Free advice clinics were also provided, offering guidance on areas such as visual merchandising for retailers, website reviews and supports for Kerry craft producers.

OCTOBER KITCHEN

Highlights of the week included a Procurement Workshop for SMEs, a networking event in Kenmare to mark International Women’s Day, and programmes such as Start Your Own Business courses and the Grow Your Business Programme.

The week concluded with a wellattended seminar at the Ballygarry Hotel Estate and Spa, where around 70 people gathered for a session on Planning Your HR Priorities for 2026, focusing on employment law and workplace planning.

Fiona Leahy of Kerry LEO said the strong attendance highlights the strength of the county’s small business community and the growing interest in enterprise development across Kerry.photos by Domnick Walsh

Book your new kitchen this month and get appliance bundle for just €1,950 Deposit secures the deal – offer ends October 31st! That’s over €300 SAVED on top-quality essentials!

Minister Foley Meets EU Commissioner During Brussels Visit

Minister for Children, Disability, Equality and Kerry TD Norma Foley held a series of meetings with European leaders during a visit to Brussels earlier this week, including discussions with European Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness and Crisis Management Hadja Lahbib.

Minister Foley travelled to Brussels to attend a meeting of the EU’s Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Affairs Council (EPSCO), where ministers from across Europe discussed a range of social policy issues. Key topics included strengthening child wellbeing, tackling child poverty, and promoting greater social inclusion across EU member states.

During her visit, Minister Foley met Commissioner Lahbib to discuss progress on the EU’s

Equal Treatment Directive and preparations for Ireland’s upcoming EU Presidency, which begins on July 1st.

Speaking after the meeting, Minister Foley said the discussions were positive and constructive.

“We had a very productive meeting and I congratulated Commissioner Lahbib on the publication of the EU Gender and Equality Strategy, which is an important step forward,” she said. “I also highlighted that disability will be a key priority for Ireland during our EU Presidency.”

Minister Foley also held bilateral meetings with several European colleagues, including Austria’s Minister for Labour, Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection, Korinna Schumann, and Romania’s Minister for Labour, Family, Youth and Social Solidarity,

Warriors Clinch Playoff Spot After Derby Thriller

Garvey’s Tralee Warriors secured their place in the Men’s Super League playoffs after a dramatic 91–90 victory over local rivals Flexachem KCYMS at the MTU Arena. In a thrilling finish, Warriors captain Eoin Quigley tipped in a rebound from Daniel Jokubaitis’ lastsecond shot to seal the win after Killorglin had briefly taken the lead through a stunning Eche Okeke three-pointer. Jordan Perkins led the Warriors scoring with 29 points, with Jokubaitis adding 21 and Iggy Hunte contributing 15. The result confirms Warriors’ playoff place, though their final league position remains undecided. They travel to Griffith College Éanna on Saturday night (7.00pm tip-off).

Photo: Liam Ryan

Petre-Florin Manole. She thanked the Cypriot Presidency for hosting what she described as a very productive EPSCO meeting.

Minister Foley said the discussions were an important step in preparing for Ireland’s EU Presidency, when Irish ministers will chair EU Council meetings and host informal ministerial gatherings in Ireland.

GOOD NEWS ONLY!

LEGAL MATTERS CORNER

MIRIAM MC GILLICUDDY ANSWERS YOUR LEGAL QUERIES

Max and Joanne are married for 8 years aged in their early thirties, they met as childhood sweethearts but have grown apart, they feel that they both need to move on and meet new partners and wish to proceed to get a divorce. They have been living as strangers in the one house for several years. They have no children. They own a house, cars, have pensions with work and a joint savings account. Max felt that he brought more assets into the marriage but is wondering what the position in relation to is getting a bigger share of the assets.

Ideally when parties separate and decide to divorce it is best to do it by agreement rather than getting involved in hotly contested expensive long winded divorce proceedings. If parties are not immediately agreed on arrangements, they can sit down in their local mediation service, with a mediator who will help them reach agreement. This agreement then can be put into a legal format either as a separation agreement which will form the basis for a divorce by consent or a consent signed up which then becomes a rule of the court when the parties divorce. Mediated settlements will take on board the family law divorce decisions in the courts. While a court can consider what the parties brought into the marriage and all the assets of the marriage are available for a court to make any orders it wishes in relation to a divorce, they still have to follow certain guidance laid down in the legislation as to what are the criteria for proper provision or all the parties. For example, the income, earning capacity, property and other financial resources which each of the spouses concerned has or is likely to have in the foreseeable future.

The financial needs, obligations and responsibilities of each of the spouses now or in the future, their prior standard of living, the age, length of the marriage, physical or mental disability, the contributions by each of the spouses either financial or home caring, reduced career prospects are a result of home caring, their conduct and the rights of any other person.

All the assets of the parties can be looked at to attain this proper provision. While it is often said that in relation to marital assets that it is proper provision not division where there are more limited assets it is more likely to veer to a 50/50 split.

For Max and Joanne, the court is likely to want to ensure a 50/50 split with each party taking away their pension intact and with no maintenance as against each other as they both have good jobs. Max may get some compensation back for greater contributions. This is in all likelihood what they will be guided towards in mediation.

Once they have been living apart two out of three years of marriage albeit in the one house they can still qualify for a divorce. Divorce in Ireland does not have to allege any fault by either party. While most court divorce decisions try and ensure a clean break between the parties in some situations this is not possible and there may be ongoing financial obligations by one party to another e.g. maintenance and financial provision.

Law Quip: “Divorce reflects not so much the failure of love as the determination of people not to live without it.”

If you have a legal query or need further information on any item addressed in this column please send in your query to miriam.mcgillycuddy@gmail.com Miriam McGillycuddy, Solicitor, Derryana, Ballyard, Tralee, County Kerry. LL:066-7181596/ Mob: 0872604753

Celebrating Irish Language and Culture in Tralee with ‘Ag Siopadóireacht le Gaelainn’

As part of Seachtain na Gaeilge, which runs from March 1st to 17th, Tralee Chamber Alliance, in partnership with Cara Credit Union, has launched a new initiative encouraging young people to use the Irish language while out shopping in town.

The initiative, called “Ag Siopadóireacht le Gaelainn” (Shop with Irish), invites primary school students to speak Irish when visiting participating local businesses in Tralee. The aim is to make the Irish language a natural part of everyday life while celebrating the town’s status as an Irish Service Town. Students are encouraged to use Irish greetings or short conversations when shopping — from a simple “Dia dhuit” to a longer chat as Gaeilge. In recognition of their efforts, participating businesses will award students stickers, which they can collect as part of the initiative. The stickers can then be used by schools as part of a fun reward

system. For example, a class might collect a certain number of stickers to earn a homework pass or another classroom reward. Schools are free to decide how the system works, encouraging creativity and enthusiasm among students. Organisers say the project is about more than just language. It is

designed to strengthen local identity, celebrate heritage and inspire young people to embrace Irish as part of their daily lives.

Local businesses taking part in the initiative include Garvey’s SuperValu, CH Chemists, Cara Credit Union, Hugh Culloty’s, Weardrobe, Walsh

Brothers Shoes, Nolan/Hilsers Jewellers, Horgan’s Centra Ardfert and Mac Domhnaill Dental. Shoppers are encouraged to look out for posters in participating shops and join in celebrating the Irish language in Tralee.

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN TRALEE

Photos by John Cleary

ABOVE: Supporting the play ‘Where there’s a Will’ at Na Gaeil hall on Saturday night, l-r David Sheehan, Martina Sheehan, Mary Quirke, Writer/Director, Corina Fitzgibbon and Neil Fitzgibbon.

ABOVE: On the gate at Na Gaeil Hall on Saturday night, tickets and support for the Play ‘Where there’s a Will’ its a full house for the last night, l-r Tony Dowling, Siobhan Murphy, Muire Kingston, Abigal Clayemant and Bíona O’ Halloran.

: In a scene from ‘Where

Cait UíChonchúic, Denis Moriarty, James

Jerome Quirke and Margaret Doody.

: The Cast of

a

for

TECHNOLOGY CORNER

with Billy O Meara (HRI Services)

Billy simplifies and explains Todays Technology

Is This the End of Satellite Television?

Q: Billy, I keep hearing that satellite TV is on the way out. Are dishes becoming a thing of the past?

A: It’s a question I get nearly every week when I’m out on a job. Satellite television has been a huge part of Irish homes since the late 1980s. When Sky arrived, suddenly we had hundreds of channels compared with the handful available through the aerial. For many households, putting up a satellite dish completely changed how we watched television.

But the viewing world has shifted a lot in recent years. Faster broadband and the rise of streaming platforms like Net ix, Amazon Prime Video and Disney+ mean many people now watch programmes through the internet rather than traditional broadcasts. You choose what you want to watch and when you want to watch it.

Sky itself has started moving in that direction. New customers are now often o ered services like Sky Glass or Sky Stream, which deliver channels through broadband instead of a satellite dish. So while satellite services are still running and plenty of homes continue to use them, the industry is clearly heading toward internet-based television.

That said, satellite TV isn’t disappearing overnight. Many homes still rely on it, especially in areas where broadband isn’t strong enough for streaming.

And remember, here in Ireland you can always watch the main Irish channels like RTE & Virgin through Saorview, which works through a standard TV aerial and doesn’t require satellite or broadband.

If you’re unsure what system suits your home best, it’s always worth getting local advice before making the switch.

Relay For Life Kerry Launches Community Campaign

The official launch of Relay For Life Kerry took place last Wednesday evening, March 4th, at the Lyreacrompane Resource Centre, marking the beginning of preparations for the county’s first ever Relay For Life event.

Relay For Life is a 24-hour community walking event that celebrates cancer survivors, remembers those who have passed away and shows support for those currently facing a cancer diagnosis. The inaugural Kerry event will take place on September 5th and 6th, 2026, bringing communities together to raise awareness and funds for cancer support services.

Guest speakers from the Irish Cancer Society attended the launch, including Ciara Hughes, Relay For Life Campaign Manager, and John Sheehy, a volunteer driver who helps transport cancer patients to their medical appointments. They spoke about the importance of community support and the vital services provided by the organisation.

Relay For Life Kerry Event Chair Mary Leane also addressed those in attendance, encouraging people across the county to get involved. Local survivor ambassador Aisling Keane, who is now in remission, shared her personal story and highlighted the importance of hope and support during cancer treatment.

Organisers are now inviting individuals, families and community groups to participate by registering a team, volunteering or joining the Survivor Experience.

Further information and registration details are available through Relay For Life Kerry on Facebook and Instagram, or via the Relay For Life website.

Photo Caption: Relay For Life Kerry Committee L/R Caroline Kelly, Eirn Lyons, Eilish Lyons, Martin Leane, Mary Leane, Aisling Keane, Maggie Mangan, Anne Marie Dillon and Clíona Leane.

GOOD NEWS ONLY!

Gallivan Financial Continues Dublin Expansion with New Acquisition

Gallivan Financial, the Killarneyheadquartered financial planning and wealth management firm, has continued its expansion in Dublin with the acquisition of Doyle Pension & Insurance Management for an undisclosed sum. The latest deal brings Gallivan Financial’s total assets under management (AUM) to more than €1.3 billion, as the company continues to pursue ambitious growth plans. The firm is now targeting €2 billion in assets under management in the near future through a combination of further acquisitions and organic growth. The purchase of Doyle Pension & Insurance Management marks Gallivan Financial’s third acquisition in the Dublin market in the past 12 months and means the group has now added six businesses since May

2023. Following the acquisition, Gallivan Financial is now regarded as the largest fully Irish-owned wealth and pensions advisory firm in the country.

Doyle Pension & Insurance Management is a well-established advisory firm that provides tailored pension and investment solutions. The company serves approximately 3,000 clients and manages around €260 million in assets for private individuals and businesses across Dublin and surrounding areas.

Gallivan Financial Managing Director Fergal Smith said reaching the €1 billion AUM milestone represents a significant achievement for the company and reflects the strength of its team and the trust placed in the firm by clients.

The acquisition further strengthens Gallivan Financial’s presence in

Dublin, with additional expansion expected as the company continues to grow its national footprint.

Hear the Moments That Matter

We’re reminded to check our eyesight. We’re told to visit the dentist regularly. But how often do we think about our hearing? Hearing health is a vital part of our overall wellbeing. It connects us to conversation, laughter, music and the everyday sounds that shape our lives. Yet because hearing loss often develops gradually, many people don’t realise there is an issue until it begins to affect their confidence, relationships and quality of life.

Ignoring the early signs - turning up the television, asking people to repeat themselves, struggling in group conversations, can lead to increased isolation and even impact mental wellbeing. The good news is that early detection makes a significant difference.

Making Hearing Health Accessible in Kerry

Audiology Medical Services encourages adults across Kerry to

prioritise their hearing health.

Our clinics on St. Brendan’s Road in Tralee and Killarney GP, makes expert audiology care even more accessible for the local community. Leading the service at these clinics are an experienced audiology team, led by Director of Audiology, Jessica Lewis, who are dedicated to providing personalised, professional and compassionate care. Every hearing assessment is thorough, unrushed and tailored to the individual’s needs.

Free Adult Hearing Tests & Free Hearing Aids with your PRSI

Cost should never be a barrier to better hearing. Audiology Medical Services is now offering ‘Free Adult Hearing Tests’ and ‘Free Hearing Aids’, up to a value of €1,000, to any

person that is eligible under the PRSI Treatment Benefit Scheme.

More people than ever qualify for this grant, including those who are employed, self-employed, or retired – as long as you or your spouse/ civil partner have the required PRSI contributions. Even Medical Card holders may be eligible for the grant, with no long waiting lists standing in the way of better hearing.

The team at Audiology Medical Services can check your eligibility quickly and guide you through the process, ensuring you receive the best device and support for your individual lifestyle.

Taking a proactive step today can protect years of conversation, connection and confidence. A simple Free Adult Hearing Test could be the first step towards hearing life more clearly.

Freephone 1800 501 501 to book an appointment with Audiology Medical Services at either of our Kerry clinics or visit www. audiologymedicalservices.ie.

Because hearing isn’t just about sound, it’s about staying connected to the moments that matter most.

Over 650 Tonnes of Waste Collected in Kerry County Clean Up

The annual County Clean Up initiative has removed more than 650 tonnes of waste from roadsides, towns and rural areas across Kerry since the project first began in 2012. This remarkable achievement has been made possible thanks to the efforts of thousands of volunteers who have taken part in the countywide effort to tackle litter and illegal dumping.

Over the past 14 years, volunteers have filled and disposed of almost 75,000 bags of litter, helping to keep Kerry’s towns, villages and countryside cleaner and more welcoming for residents and visitors alike. The initiative is organised with the support of KWD Recycling and Kerry County Council.

This year’s 14th annual County Clean Up will take place on Saturday, 11 April, and organisers are encouraging individuals, families and community groups to once again play their part.

Kerry football legend Colm ‘The Gooch’ Cooper returns as the event’s ambassador, continuing to promote the importance of community involvement in protecting the county’s environment.

Cathaoirleach of Kerry County Council, Cllr Michael Foley, has urged groups across the county to register for the event when online registration opens on Monday at www.countycleanup.com. He is encouraging resident associations, schools, youth groups, sports clubs, businesses and families to take part by collecting litter along major routes, local roads and public spaces throughout Kerry.

Valerie O’Sullivan...Launching the 2026 County Clean Up this week were:

KWD Recycling’s Noel O’Reilly said the company is proud to support the initiative, describing it as an important day for communities working together to reduce litter and improve local areas. Volunteers can register from Monday, 16 March at www. countycleanup.com or by emailing

Paul Neary (Kerry County Council), Noel O’Reilly (KWD), Colm Cooper, Cllr Marie Moloney (Leas-Cathaoirleach, Kerry County Council), Johnny McGuire (, Colm Nagle (Kerry County Council), Michael Gleeson, Tadhg Healy (KWS Recycling)

countycleanup@kwd.ie.

€230,000 Funding Boost for Students with Disabilities in Kerry

Minister for Children, Disability and Equality and Kerry TD Norma Foley has confirmed that €230,000 in funding has been allocated to support students with disabilities in Kerry.

Under the Fund for Students with a Disability, Kerry ETB will receive €150,000 to provide a range of supports for students enrolled in Post Leaving Certificate (PLC) courses. These supports include assistive technology, personal assistance, transport services, as well as academic and exam supports. An additional €80,000 has been allocated through a new Transport Fund for Learners with Intellectual Disabilities. This funding will extend transport supports to learners with intellectual disabilities across further education and training programmes, not just PLC courses.

disabilities have equal access to education.

Minister Foley welcomed the announcement, saying the funding will help ensure students with

“We want disabled people to be able to get a good education just like everyone else. This funding will help Kerry ETB provide important supports and transport for learners

in further education,” she said. The funding has been distributed by SOLAS to all 16 Education and Training Boards nationwide, with students expected to benefit in the coming weeks.

T A K E A N A D V E N T U R E U N D E R T H E S E A

R E N O V A T I O N S I N

P R O G R E S ST E M P O R A R Y E N T R A N C E I N U S E at Ireland’s largest aquarium!

Big Increase in College Applications as CAO Celebrates 50 Golden Years

The Central Applications Office (CAO) is celebrating 50 years in operation as new figures show a significant rise in applications for third-level places in Ireland.

Since the CAO was established in 1976, more than 1.5 million students have taken up places in universities, technological universities and colleges across the country. The system began modestly, processing 14,845 applications for 69 courses in

five universities for its first intake in 1977. Today, it manages applications for a wide range of institutions and courses, including those for mature students and applicants through the HEAR and DARE access schemes.

Speaking about the milestone, Billy Ryle, Career Guidance Counsellor and educational commentator, praised the system for its fairness and accessibility.

“Working closely with CAO in my professional role, I have no hesitation in saying it is one of the best and fairest third-level application systems in the world. It has grown from humble beginnings into a very efficient and user-friendly service,” he said.

By Billy Ryle

The move to online applications in 2000 modernised the process and helped make it easier for students to apply. Demand continues to grow, with 88,817 applications received by the 1st February deadline this year, up from 83,424 last year — an increase of 6%.

Ryle believes the final figure could exceed 90,000 applications by the late closing date of 1st May, marking another important milestone.

“There are strong opportunities for students this year. Extra third-level places are being made available and points requirements should continue to ease back toward pre-Covid levels,” he said.

Interest in health-related courses

remains particularly strong, with large increases in areas such as veterinary medicine, pharmacy, medicine and physiotherapy.

Students can review course trends on the CAO website, while the Change of Mind facility opens from 5th May to 1st July

Kerry to Host National Road Safety Conference

Kerry will host a major national conference on road safety next month when the “Safer Roads” Conference and Exhibition takes place in Killarney on March 11th and 12th. The two-day event is being organised by Kerry County Council in association with Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII). More than 300 delegates from across Ireland’s roads and transport sector are expected to attend. The conference will feature 28 keynote speakers along with four panel discussions involving leading road safety experts.

A wide range of issues affecting road safety will be explored,

including changes to speed limits, road enforcement, scooters and scramblers, as well as the role of digital technology and innovation in improving safety on Irish roads. Discussions will also cover topics such as road design, engineering, collision trends, cycling, e-mobility and sustainable travel.

Cathaoirleach of Kerry County Council Cllr Michael Foley said the local authority is proud to host the conference and welcome delegates from across the country and beyond.

Kerry County Council’s Road Safety Officer Declan Keogh said the event will provide an important platform for professionals and stakeholders to

road safety.

Further information on the

CBS The Green Set for Two All-Ireland Final Showdowns

Excitement is building in Tralee as CBS The Green prepares for two major All-Ireland schools finals, with the school’s senior football and hurling teams set to compete on the national stage in the coming days. Preparations are already ramping up in Croke Park, where senior players recently took part in a special media day ahead of the big occasions. Representing the school were senior hurling joint captains Eoghan Costello and Cillian Hurley, along with senior football captains Fionnán Ryan and Mairtín McKivergan, who took part in interviews and photos as anticipation continues to grow.

First up are the CBS The Green senior footballers, who will take to the famous Croke Park pitch for the Hogan Cup All-Ireland Senior A Final on St. Patrick’s Day, March 17th, where they will face Coláiste Mhuire, Mullingar. Throw-in is scheduled for 3pm, with supporters from Tralee expected to travel in big numbers to cheer on the team.

Just days later, the school’s senior hurling team will also compete for All-Ireland honours when they face St. Patrick’s College, Maghera (Derry) in the Paddy Buggy Senior B AllIreland Final on March 21st, with the venue yet to be confirmed.

THE NEW WORKOUT OF THE DECADE!

BODYPUMP HEAVY!

BODYPUMP HEAVY is serious strength training, made simple and fun. No intimidation, just you getting strong.

WHY DO WE NEED HEAVY LIFTING IN OUR LIVES?

We all know strength training builds lean muscle, increases bone density, boosts metabolism, improves longevity, etc. But also, lifting weights is about feeling strong and confident, and knowing that you have the functional strength to complete everyday life activities with ease.

WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT FROM BODYPUMP HEAVY?

HEAVY combines the iconic music and energy of group workouts with the type of heavy lifting you do in a PT session. It’s a perfect blend of slow, science-backed movement patterns and euphoric group energy. We use traditional lifting techniques like squats, lunges, cleans, deadlifts, and presses, with a simple structure: two moves per track, three sets of eight reps, and up to two minutes of recovery. The recovery is just as important as the lifting, as this is when we reset, refocus, and prepare for safe, effective heavy lifting.

This is as close as you’ll get to training with heavy weights on the gym floor, but in a class setting.

DIFFERENT TO BODYPUMP?

• BODYPUMP focuses on strength endurance – lots of fast-paced reps, back-to-back with very little rest.

• BODYPUMP HEAVY uses slower working tempos, often just super-setting two movement patterns, and big recovery sets. This allows for heavier lifting and true strength building.

WHAT WILL PEOPLE FIND

MOST SURPRISING ABOUT

BODYPUMP HEAVY?

You can lift much heavier than you think! The coaching is designed to build your confidence and set you up for success, so you can progress quickly. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you get stronger.

WHO IS GOING TO LOVE BODYPUMP HEAVY?

Anyone who wants to get stronger will love this workout. Whether you’re new to strength training or want to break through a plateau, you’ll see progress fast

BODYPUMP HEAVY is proving to be especially popular with new people. It gives them a place to learn, and they can get their head around basic lifting techniques without paying for a Personal Trainer or facing the intimidation of heading out to the gym floor by themselves. For more information about BODYPUMP HEAVY, Call Catriona or one of the team at Manor Leisure Centre, 066-7194500 ext 2

“SNAPPED ON SOCIAL MEDIA”

We pick out some great photos posted on social media each week ...if you have any good ones please send them in... email traleeadvertiser@gmail.com or message us on our Facebook page... Enjoy!

was

Are you up for it?

Lets give Banna a Spring Clean!

Brook eld Tuition

LEAVING

Mid-Week Bliss

Biotec Glow

Think Before You Flush Campaign Visits MTU Tralee During Green Week

Students at MTU Tralee recently learned more about responsible waste disposal during Green Campus Week, when the Think Before You Flush campaign visited the campus to highlight the environmental impact of flushing unsuitable items down the toilet. The campaign, run by Clean Coasts in partnership with Uisce Éireann, encourages people to follow a simple rule when using the bathroom: only flush the 3Ps — pee, poo and paper. Flushing other items

such as wipes, sanitary products and cotton buds can cause blockages in household plumbing and the wider wastewater network, sometimes leading to pollution spills that harm rivers, wildlife and the natural environment.

An information stand at the event also highlighted the Think Before You Pour campaign, which raises awareness about the dangers of pouring fats, oils and greases (FOGs) down kitchen sinks. When these substances cool, they harden and

combine with other waste such as wipes and hair to form large blockages known as fatbergs.

Nuala Woods, Head of Wastewater Operations at Uisce Éireann, said small changes in everyday habits can make a big difference in protecting the environment.

Clean Coasts Development Officer

Elaine Doyle added that students were very engaged and eager to learn how simple actions can help protect waterways and reduce marine litter.

More information is available at thinkbeforeyouflush.org or through @CleanCoasts on social media.

The Tralee branch of the Irish Red Cross has launched a new recruitment drive aimed at attracting adult volunteers from across the local community. As part of the initiative, the organisation is hosting a free Red Cross ‘Taster Session’ on Saturday, March 21st, offering people an opportunity to learn more about the work of the charity and the ways they can get involved.

Tralee Red Cross Chairman Joe McDonnell explained that the session is designed to give potential volunteers a relaxed introduction to the organisation.

“Many people would like to volunteer but are unsure what organisation might suit them. This

Tralee Red Cross Launch Recruitment ‘Taster Session’ A Huge Kerry

three-hour session will give people a chance to find out what the Red Cross is about, ask questions and get a feel for the type of work we do. And of course, there will be a cuppa and biscuits as well,” he said.

The Tralee branch currently has volunteers from a wide range of backgrounds and age groups, with opportunities available not only in frontline activities but also in administration and support roles.

A similar event held two years ago proved very successful, with several new volunteers joining afterwards.

“People often associate the Red Cross mainly with First Aid, which is a key part of what we do, but we also run Youth and Community

Service programmes, and we would love to see more people helping us strengthen those areas,” Mr McDonnell added.

The session will take place from 10.00am to 1.00pm in Tralee and is open to anyone over 18. Places are limited and can be booked by emailing chair.tralee@irishredcross. com.

Tralee is preparing to welcome a large travelling support this weekend as Kerry GAA take on Mayo GAA in a key National Football League (GAA) Division 1 clash at Austin Stack Park.

The match is scheduled for Saturday afternoon with throw-in at 4.00pm, and thousands of Mayo supporters are expected to make the journey to Tralee for the eagerly anticipated encounter.

The influx of visitors is expected to provide a welcome boost for the local economy, with hotels, restaurants, pubs and cafés likely to

benefit from the large number of travelling fans spending the day and evening in the town.

The fixture has also attracted national attention, with the game selected for live television coverage on RTÉ One, as part of the broadcaster’s Saturday GAA coverage.

With both counties battling for important league points as the Allianz National Football League approaches its closing stages, supporters can expect a lively atmosphere and a competitive contest under the Austin Stack Park lights.

For Tralee, hosting one of the

standout league games of the weekend promises not only an exciting sporting occasion but also a welcome surge in visitors as Mayo

Did you know?

Solar panels can dramatically cut running costs while reducing your carbon footprint.

With some of the highest electricity prices in Europe, Irish farms and businesses are perfectly suited to solar — especially as most power is used during daylight hours when panels work best.

WITH GILROY’S SOLAR SYSTEMS YOU CAN:

• Reduce exposure to rising energy prices & carbon taxes

• Lower operating costs year after year

WHY SOLAR MAKES SENSE FOR FARMS & BUSINESSES

• Cut electricity bills by up to 60%

• Power sheds, milking parlours, cold rooms & offices

• Use free energy during peak daylight hours

• Future-proof against rising energy costs

• Reduce your carbon footprint

BATTERY STORAGE

Tailored systems from 2kWh to 1,000s kWh

• Store excess daytime solar power

• Use energy after dark

• Charge on low night-rate power in winter

• Slash energy bills Fully scalable for farms & commercial sites

GRANTS / ROI

• Grants up to €162,600*

• Systems from 1kWp – 1000kWp

• ACA & Full Capital Allowances (SEAI)

• Up to 57.7% tax back (incl. VAT)

• ROI of up to 52% per year

TAMS (MODERNISATION SCHEME)

– FOR IRISH FARMERS

• 40% grant for 11kW solar + 6kW battery

• 60% grant for young trained farmers

• Available for dairy, beef, tillage, sheep

• Pig & poultry: 40% grant up to 62kW

Spotted on the Street

At Tralee Track on Friday night for the Juvenile Classic final were Joe and Marc Curtin

Men on a mission who were hoping to buy a step ladder at Tralee car boot sale on Sunday morning were Noel Power,Dominic O’Connor,Bernie O’Connell and T.J.Cronin.Photo Moss Joe Browne.

St Patricks Day Parade in Tralee

The countdown is on! Join us in celebrating “Tralee Shining Bright” as the St. Patrick’s Day Parade takes to the streets on Tuesday, March 17th at 12pm.

Organised by Kerry County Council in partnership with Tralee Chamber Alliance, and proudly sponsored by Cara Credit Union , the parade will depart from The Rose Hotel, travelling through Mitchels Road to Boherbee, continuing down Castle Street, and finishing on Denny Street.

Tom Nolan,sponsor,presents the trophy to owner Liam Dowling from Ballymac after Ballymac Deniro won the Juvenile Classic final at the Kingdom Greyhound Stadium on Friday night.Also included are members of the Nolan family and Dowling team along with racing manager Kieran Casey and Heather Hartley KGS.Photo Moss Joe Browne.

Stocking up ahead of another busy weekend at McCaffrey’s

Entertainment and Eating Out in Tralee

Today my wife asked me to get one of those drinks with her name on it. I’m now sleeping on the couch

When you know absolutely nothing about the job but still go for the interview

BREAKING: Car faints after seeing fuel prices!

Last night I told my wife I was only having one beer!