BIG PAYBACK returns to Adams this Saturday

Over the years THE BIG PAYBACK has taken on many different guises (from the massive BOOTILICIOUS BIG BEAT BOOGIE in The Hillgrove to the more House influenced gig STRANGE BREW in Paul's and legendary annual FUNK BALL held in Danno's as part of Feile Na Bealtaine) but nothing compares to those original sweat filled nights of block party beats in Adam's Bar.
So when one half of The Big Payback crew, Ben had to decide what he would do to celebrate/commiserate turning 30, it was a no brainer ... WE'RE COMING BACK TO ADAM'S!
This is FREE gig open to everyone, but as we all know Adam's isn't the largest of bars so if you want to get in make sure you are there early. First tune is at 9pm. And remember the old adage... DRESS TO SWEAT! - Ben Farr, Finn McCool's Surf Co., Dingle. www.finnmccools.ie

West Kerry Agri-Show returns to Dingle this Sunday

It's Show-Time!
--44th Annual West Kerry Agricultural Show - Dingle Mart Grounds
--Sunday, July 19th from 12.30pm
The West Kerry Agricultural Show returns this Sunday (July 19th) with the show’s local committee welcoming locals and visitors alike to experience one of the best family days out in the year. A staple of West Kerry life for many decades, the show has built its success on a strong community foundation, hosting many competitions in bakery, art, crafts, photography and horticulture as well as showcasing the best in livestock. A variety of different competitive classes will be contested at the show for cattle, ponies, horse and sheep, with a prize fund of €20,000 up for grabs along with an array of prestigious trophies. Budding artists and craft enthusiasts of all ages are also invited to submit their works to the ANNUAL ARTS & CRAFTS EXHIBITION and submissions from all age groups are welcome. An exciting addition to the Arts Competition this years is the addition of the first WEST KERRY AGRICULTURAL SHOW AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPETITION. Entrants of all ages are invited to submit one of their photos and the winning entries will be exhibited during the show. Submissions must have a farming or agricultural theme and can be dropped into the Dingle Mart Canteen on Saturday July 18th from 4pm - 8pm. Bakers and cake-makers of all ages can look forward to the 'hotly' contested Cookery Competition, with special prizes for the Best Pie/Tart, Best Bread and Best Cake. Regarding the arts and craft competitions, a special prize will be awarded, Best Overall School, recognising the efforts of its pupils’ participation in the West Kerry Agricultural Show and all entries should be handed into the Dingle Mart Canteen between 4pm and 8pm on Saturday July 18th. Entries for the Cookery Competition should be handed in by 12 noon on Show - Day. Another exciting addition to this year’s show in Dingle is the MILKING COWS COMPETITION. This consists of two artificial milking cows; the object of the game is to milk more from your cow than your opponent. this is sure to be a brilliant game that can be enjoyed by everyone. Other events include the ANNUAL DOG SHOW which has become one of the days most popular events, with categories for puppies, large dogs, small dogs, gun dogs and sheep dogs in work. Sheep Dog Trials will also take place . Other fun competitions include the Granny Gaelach, Best Dressed Lady, Best Dressed Gentleman and the Bonny Baby competition, presenting those holidaying in Dingle the chance to engage in some good wholesome family fun. The West Kerry Agricultural Show will also host an Irish Dancing Exhibition with Rinceoirí na Mara and music from Banna Fife agus Drumma Daingean Uí Chúis.
The West Kerry Agricultural Show will take place at the Mart Grounds, which may be accessed via the Spa Road or John Street, Dingle, on Sunday (July 19th) beginning at 12.30pm. All are welcome to attend!
To enquire about submitting pieces to the many competitions contact Paddy Browne at 066-9151293.
Pictured above, l-r, Local committee members Joanne Ní Shuailleabháin, Derry Murphy, Paddy Browne, Michael O'Connor and Nora Joyce preparing the for event at the Dingle Mart Grounds.

Dingle Canon to host special lecture on Dick Fitzgerald

Dingle Historical Society presents:

Dick Fitzgerald;
When The Hills Were Bleeding and The Playing Fields Golden

A lecture by An Canónach Tomás Ó Luanaigh
Venue: An Díseart, Green Street, Dingle on Friday July 17th @ 8pm

'An Seabhac' enlisted Dick Fitzgerald into the Irish Volunteers in 1913. Kerry's first Gaelic Football superstar and author turned his attention from Gaelic League activites to the national struggle spending most of 1916 in the Frongoch Prisoner of War Camp in Wales and later periods on the run inthe Black Valley. For ten years, until his young death, he served as anelected member of Killarney U.D.C. Following the Truce he switched from SinnFéin to Cumann na nGaedhal but constantly sought reconciliation in his community work. His colleague of 1913 and 1914, Pat 'Aeroplane' O'Shea,deemed him "a great captain - our champion and our guardian." All are welcome to attend this special lecture.

Daylight robbery: thieves steal up to 1k in goods in Dingle

Gardai are urging the public to be extra vigilant following a robbery in Dingle. On Friday July 10th two men, whom Gardai believe to be of Eastern European descent, stole in excess of €1,000 worth of drink and clothing from a large store in the town. Gardai are currently following a definite line of enquiry in identifying the suspects who were caught on CCTV in Dingle. Other recent incidents include the theft of a sum of money was taken from a Café on Main Street in broad daylight and a few weeks ago a house was broken into on Mail Road. There is no clear connections between the crimes however the incidence of burglaries and robberies are rapidly increasing. Gardai are urging locals to be report any suspicious activity to 066-9151522.

Settlement reached outside High Court in Dingle school language row

Parents group Tuismitheoirí na Gaeltachta have welcome the agreement reached outside the High Court regarding the language policy of Pobalscoil Chorca Dhuibhne pending clarification of the details of the agreement.
“This agreement strengthens the rights of Gaeltacht parents and their children to an all-Irish education in the Gaeltacht and we welcome that. However clarification is required regarding the Droichead programme (for students with weak Irish) and the Provision of an All-Irish Education for the community school.” said Roibeard Ó hEartáin on behalf of Tuismitheoirí na Gaeltachta who have also requested a meeting with the school's Bord of Management. An agreement was reached after the High Court proceedings began last Tuesday (July 7th) instigated by parents group, Concerned Parents of Chorca Dhuibhne who claim that the school's all-Irish teaching policy was a barrier to those without fluency. They sought a bilingual stream to be introduced. Sources now say that both sides are pleased with the outcome however further details have yet to emerge. Tuismitheoirí na Gaeltachta and the school's Board of Management were opposed to bilingual teaching in the school saying that it discriminated against the rights of children who wished to undertake their studies in Irish.

Michael Jackson Memorial Service Live Feed

Michael Jackson 1958-2009
Michael Jackson's memorial service is currently taking place at the Staples Center in L.A.
There is no doubt that he was one of the greatest talents ever to grace this Earth and his legacy is undeniable.
Watch the memorial service live by clicking on this link:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/07/07/watch-michael-jacksons-me_n_226957.html
"When the groove is dead and gone, you know that love survives, and we will rock forever" - Michael Jackson, from Rock With You, from the album Off the Wall.

M.J., R.I.P. xxx

New figures reveal drop in Dingle unemployment figures

According to figures released yesterday, Dingle experienced an estimated 7% drop in those signing on in June, bringing the total number of sign-ons in the area to 659.

This bucks the county-wide trend as it was revealed that unemployment levels in County Kerry continued to rise by 3.5% last month, bringing the total number of those signing on in Kerry to a startling 15,729.

The drop in figures in Dingle may be attributable to the arrival of the tourist season, with Kenmare also revealing a 7% drop.

However anyone working in the tourist industry on the Dingle Peninsula will be quick to tell you that this summer is one of the quietest, visitor-wise, in living memory.

6,744 are now signing on in Tralee, 1,278 in Killorglin, 2,887 in Listowel, 2,964 in Killarney, 650 in Cahersiveen and 547 in Kenmare.

In related news, there are over 1700 people in Kerry currently waiting to have their social welfare applications processed, 93 of those in the Dingle area alone.

Swine Flu vaccinations to be made available this autumn

A free swine flu vaccination is to be offered to the general population in the coming months, as part of a major plan to avoid the worst affects of a global pandemic.The HSE plans to acquire over 7,500,000 doses of the vaccine, at a cost of almost €90m.The jabs would be administered by GPs or through a network of over a hundred swine flu clinics and will be ready by the autumn. Twelve new cases of swine flu were confirmed in Ireland yesterday, bringing the total number in Ireland to 63. A case has yet to be confirmed in Kerry however it seems that its a question of if rather than when with numbers on the increase everyday. In a worrying development, officials in Hong Kong said yesterday that they have detected a case of swine flu which is resistant to Tamiflu, the main treatment for the virus.The World Health Organisation has declared a pandemic is underway from the new H1N1 strain of the virus. More information on how to limit the spread of the virus is available at the HSE's website, http://www.hse.ie/

Musical innovators Túcan set to rock MacCarthy's this July

“Túcan run the gamut of flamenco, jazz, hard rock and metal” – The Irish Times
Musical innovators Túcan take their Aliquot Strings Tour to MacCarthy’s, Upper Main Street, Dingle on Friday, July 10th, in what promises to be a rockin' gig. Following the release of their critically acclaimed debut album Aliquot Strings, Túcan have been touring extensively and their live set has ignited a veritable bonfire of critical acclaim with their original musical fusion. Túcan are a band designed to cross borders and their music has a universal quality to it as its blends various genres to create a distinctive sound. From classical influences to 1960’s rock, from heavy metal to trad, flamenco and jazz, Túcan seamlessly weave together an enchanting sound. As a consequence, the feedback across Europe has been excellent, with Túcan performing at locations spanning the entire continent from Scandinavia to Iberia. Highlights include gigs at Earls Court, London, two great shows in Bristol and the Freetown Christiania Gig in Copenhagen. Check out www.tucanmusic.com or www.myspace.com/tucanmusic to experience their unique musical perspective for yourself. The gig at MacCarthy’s is set to be a blast, book your tickets early to avoid disappointment as the buzz surrounding Túcan is swiftly gathering. Doors at 9pm, Friday July 10th.For booking info check the Dingle News Gig Guide.

Irish co-ordinator to be appointed in Dingle school

It has been announced that a co-ordinator, who will promote the Irish language among students, is to be appointed at Pobalscoil Chorca Dhuibhne - made possible by 35,000 euro in grant aid.
The money has been made available for two years by the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht affairs and the co-ordinator will be appointed through Oidhreacht Chorca Dhuibhne. 84 families have issued legal proceedings against the school due to its all-Irish teaching policy in Dingle's only public post-primary school. The school has strenuously outlined the importance of teaching through Irish as a school in a Gaeltacht area. Meanwhile the Concerned Parents group have previously stated that they are seeking education in Irish and in English as they feel some students lack the necessary Irish language skills to achieve their full potential at the school. The case will be heard in the High Court on July 7th.

Dingle Cottages prepare to celebrate 100th anniversary

100 years-a-growing

Residents of The Cottages, at The Wood, Dingle are preparing to celebrate 100 glorious years this October with a special reunion event for residents past and present. Built in 1909 the fifteen cottages, located at the water's edge at The Wood overlooking Dingle Harbour, are local landmarks in themselves, having stood the test of time. Having survived the War of Independence, the Civil War and the immense change which Dingle has seen throughout the 20th and the 21st century, its current residents are inviting anyone who may have had an association with the Cottages to come along and celebrate 100-years a growing at a special event in Dingle on October 3rd. The residents committee will host a special commemorative Mass which will be celebrated on 3rd October at 4 p.m. in the Dingle Harbour Lodge followed by a small reception with tea, coffee and refreshments. Later that event a celebratory meal and music will be hosted at the Skellig Hotel at 8pm. “Everyone who would like to attend either event is cordially invited and tickets for the meal in the Skellig will be on sale from committee members closer to the date” said Margaret Holderied of the Last Cottage. “Also If anybody reading this has any information, old photographs, stories or anecdotes about the residents past or present their contributions would be very much appreciated.”A special website has been created where people can access more information on the event and also search though the history of the Cottages. The committee may contacted via e-mail at cottagescentenary@gmail.com,

at +353 (0)66-9151469 or visit their website, http://www.cottagescentenary.page.tl/.

"Bilingual teaching will undermine the rights of Gaeltacht children" - claim

Tuismitheoiri na Gaeltachta, the parents group advocating the continuation of an all-Irish teaching policy in Dingle's Pobalscoil Chorca Dhuibhne have stated that if bilingual teaching is introduced in the school it will "undermine the right of Gaeltacht children to an education through Irish in West Kerry." A number of local families have instigated high court action against the school in an effort to secure the option of bilingual teaching, in English and in Irish, for students at Dingle's only public secondary school. Tuismitheoiri na Gaeltachta are opposed to this and support the school's stance on adopting an all-Irish teaching policy. "Some parents want their children educated through English and that is their choice, but it should not replace the right of Gaeltacht children to an Irish language education" read the statement. "The language of instruction and the language of communication are both vital to Gaeltacht schools. If two languages are used for instruction, the dominant stronger language will become the language of communication."A ‘bilingual’ policy in Pobalscoil Chorca Dhuibhne would change the language of communication between students and their teachers to English, giving way to a Gaeltacht school run through English, with some subjects taught through Irish." The group taking the High Court action, Concerned Parents of Chorca Dhuibhne, have stated on previous occasions to the press that, as the only public post-primary school in Dingle, they are fighting for a bilingual teaching options, in Irish and English, in an effort to afford all students an equal chance in achieving their full potential at the school. The group were contacted for comment but were unable to due to the pending High Court proceedings. The case by the Concerned Parents Group against the school is due to be heard on July 7th.

New retail development planned for Mail Road

Plans for a new shopping centre development in Dingle have been submitted to Kerry County Council. The application, made by John Moran of Moran's Supermarket and Petrol Station is seeking to construct a new 'mixed use development with a supermarket, retail units, a restaurant, offices and a leisure centre at Mail Road, Dingle (location indicated above). The development is so consist of three or four storeys on a site of 1.3 hectares. The supermarket will have a net floorspace of 1,125sq metres and the new sports complex will neighbour Pairc an Aghasaigh. 202 car-parking spaces have also been included in the application. More information on the development is available in the planning section of Kerry County Council's website, http://www.kerrycoco.ie/. Map courtesy of www.dodingle.com.

Udaras in disusssion with insurance company

Údarás na Gaeltachta has confirmed that discussions are currently taking place with an insurance company about new investment in Dingle and the possible creation of up to 20 jobs. It follows an announcement by Ceann Comhairle John O'Donoghue of Fianna Fail that twenty jobs are to be created in at the Udaras na Gaeltachta offices at Baile an Mhuilinn, Dingle. Udaras member and Fine Gael Councillor Seamus Cosai Fitzgerald said the announcement was premature and could damage negotiations with the company. Údarás says it's in talks with insurance brokers McGivern Flynn and Company Limited about plans to establish a new operations in Dingle and It's hoping to make a proposal to its Board within the next three or four months on the venture. The last major outfit to come to Dingle were call-centre Contact 4 which resulted in immense job losses when the Scottish parent company pulled out of Ireland last year. Reports suggested they had received up to three million in grant-aid to come to Dingle. Offices were also upgraded and the facility and a new car-park created.

Knuttel to exhibit at Dingle's Greenlane this July

KNUTTEL ‘BACK TO BASICS’ EXHIBITION AT THE GREENLANE
Greenlane Gallery - Holy Ground, Dingle - July 10th - 31st
Having graduated in sculpture from the NCAD, world-renowned Irish artist, Graham Knuttel, has made his name primarily through the medium of painting. In his latest body of work however, the Dublin maverick makes a stunning return to physical form, with a collection of sculptures inspired by the delightful cats, birds and fish that form an ongoing motif throughout his whole body of work. These latest sculptures will feature alongside Knuttel’s latest paintings and tapestries at the Back to Basics Exhibition at the Greenlane Gallery Dingle which will run from 10th – 31st July 2009. This new collection, which is as covetable as it is collectible, sees Knuttel move from one dimension in painting, to two dimensions in his tapestries and finally to maturity in the rubric of the three-dimensional form of sculpture. The work is at once playful and urbane, and the colours he uses such as brilliant oranges, sunny yellows, verdant greens and regal blues; sometimes embellished with gold, sometimes glossily reflective in his paintings and sculptures, provide the viewer with an entry point to a strange other world that is sophisticated in its simplicity, yet not always easy to define. “We are delighted to host this exhibition of Graham Knuttel’s wonderful new work” said Greenlane Gallery owner, Susan Callery. “This is one of few times Knuttel has ever exhibited in Kerry, and we are very pleased to welcome him to the Greenlane’s portfolio of artists. This colourful and exciting body of work by one of Ireland’s most consistently curious artists is the perfect way to welcome the summer into the Gallery.” The exhibition will be opened by Listowel's Billy Keane, renowned writer, publican and the son of the late great John B. at 7.30pm on Friday July 10th. For further information contact 066-9152018 or visit http://www.greenlanegallery.com/.

Danno's to host 'Black Pudding' event this Friday

The 'Dingle Black Pudding Society' in association with Rugbai Chorca Dhuibhne will present a very special event in Dannos Bar this Friday night to mark the second annual Tag Beach Rugby Blitz which will take place on Muirioch Beach the following day (Saturday 27th). All are invited to Danno's for 'A Taste of Black Pudding' on Friday, June 26th, beginning at 10pm. Music will be provided by Ivor O'Connor and entry is free. Donations can also be made on the night to the Stuart Mangan Appeal. Teams can still enter the Tag Rubgy Beach Blitz which will see many stars, including rugby legend Mick Galwey and RTE GAA pundit Dara O Cinneide, lead teams to compete in the competition. All are welcome to attend the event at Danno's this Friday and teams may register to take part in the Tag Rugby Beach Blitz at www.irishrugby.ie.

Tralee Swine Flu tests come back negative

A child who was being treated at Kerry General Hospital in Tralee is no longer suspected of having the swine flu virus after tests carried out today came back negative. The child, who is understood to have recently returned from the US, was being treated after presenting with symptoms of the virus. To download information on how to limit the spread of the virus (pictured right) visit http://www.hse.ie/.

Child tested for Swine Flu in Tralee

BREAKING NEWS:
A child being treated at Kerry General Hospital in Tralee has been tested for SWINE FLU after presenting with symptoms. It is understood the child had recently returned from the US and is now being treated in isolation at the hospital. Tests are being carried out to establish the nature of the illness. The HSE has confirmed it's investigating a suspected case of human swine flu at the hospital but insists that the case has NOT been confirmed. A result from the tests is expected later tonight. This comes hot on the heels of reported cases in counties Mayo and Roscommon. Minister for Health Mary Harney has said she is 'satisfied Ireland is completely prepared for a swine flu pandemic'; however with hospital resources stretched to the limit in many regional and urban hospitals, with ward closures, a lack of beds and personnel only time will tell if the Health Minister's comments are accurate. The World Health Organisation recently declared the outbreak of Swine Flu a global pandemic with over 74 countries have reported over 27,700 cases of the virus, including 141 deaths.

Cllr. Bobby O'Connell selected as new Mayor of Kerry

The new Mayor of Kerry is Fine Gael Councillor, Bobby O'Connell (pictured left). Selected today at Kerry County Council's inaugural meeting following the June 5th election, the Castleisland Councillor was deemed Mayor after winning eighteen votes to seven with two abstentions. Independent FF Councillors Michael and Danny Healy Rae backed Councillor O’Connell, despite having previously supported Fianna Fail. Labour Councillor, Tralee's AJ Spring, was elected Deputy Mayor. Cllr. O'Connell is the first Fine Gael Mayor of Kerry since 1989 and he has sited unemployment as one of the biggest issues he has to tackle while in office. Fine Gael and the Labour Party have now formed an alliance, giving them a majority in the Council which was previously under Fianna Fáil's control, with support from the Healy-Raes.

Reemo and Travega to rock An Chonair tonight

Exciting new-comers Reemo (pictured left) and Travega (pictured right) will rock Dingle tonight (Friday June 19th) as they play a special live set in An Chonair, starting at 9pm. Reemo’s debut album Colours has been critically acclaimed; the energetic collection lends a new insight on the rock genre with melodic songs driven by dance beats and memorable hooks that stick in your head. Interpol comes to mind when listening to Reemo’s music, hear it for yourself at http://www.myspace.com/reemotheband. Travega are an original four-piece band hailing from Dublin; after crash landing onto the music scene with their dynamic rock sound, they have wowed audiences with their high-energy live shows. Travega site a wide range of influences, from U2 to The Foo Fighters. Their single Rewind is typical of their new album, produced by Garth ‘Ggg’ Richardson, who has also worked with the Red Hot Chilli Peppers and Nickelback to name a few. Check out their music at http://myspace.com/travega. This special line-up will take to the stage at An Chonair at 9pm, followed by a DJ set, all proceeds raised to go towards the Dingle Youth Advisory Panel.

An Díseart to host festival in honour of Nano Nagle this weekend

The life and times of Presentation Order founder, Nano Nagle, will be celebrated at a special spiritual festival at An Diseart, this weekend. Ceoltóiri Óga Chorca Dhuibhne will open proceedings tonight (Friday June 19th) when they perform a special musical recital at 7pm in An Diseart. Following a book sale tomorrow afternoon (Sat, June 20th), local historian Pat Nelligan will officially launch a new book entitled Jesus in Dingle, conceived and written by local author, former Dingle Canon and Professor, Monsignor Pádraig Ó Fiannachta. Mass will be celebrated in the beautiful Presentation Convent Chapel at 11.30am, home to the world famous Harry Clarke stained-glass windows. This will be followed by a special blessing in the Nano Nagle room where artist Eleanor Yates has created a number of murals. Refreshments will then be served in the grounds of An Diseart from 1-3pm, while the Monsignor blesses a recently rediscovered well.An Diseart will be open to the public from 10am this Monday and Tuesday while a pilgrimage to An Teampall Geal at Baile Riach will bring this spiritual festival to a close. An Díseart Institute of Education and Celtic Culture was founded in 1996 and strives to promote research, courses and cultural activities in all areas of native and Celtic Culture including theology, language, literature, art, laws, folklore, values, spirituality, history, music, archaeology and customs.All are welcome to attend these events over the weekend, more information is available at 066-9150000 or visit the Diseart online at http://www.diseart.ie/.

Homecoming celebration for Lispole MEP tonight

A special homecoming celebration will be hosted in Sullivan's Pub, Garraí na dTor in Lispole tonight, (Friday June 19th) welcoming home new Dublin MEP, Joe Higgins, to his native village. Joe Higgins became the first Kerryman to be elected to the European Parliament following the June 5th Euro Elections, dramatically taking a seat in the tightly contested Dublin Constituency. It is a monumental achievement for the Socialist and former TD who, as gifted speaker and man of keen intellect, he is sure to shake things up on the continent. The celebration takes place in Sullivan's Pub, Garrai tonight at 9pm and all are welcome to attend. For more information on Joe Higgins MEP visit his Facebook profile at http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/pages/Joe-Higgins/.

Munster Legends to compete in Muiríoch Tag Rugby Tournament

Irish Rugby legend Mick Galwey has confirmed that his team of Munster Legends, captained by Anthony Foley, will take part in the Beach Tag Rubgy Tournament, hosted by Rugbai Corca Dhuibhne next weekend (Saturday June 27th) at Muiríoch Beach. This is the second annual Rugbaí Corca Dhuibhne Beach Tag Rugby Festival in West Kerry, where the game is experiencing massive growth with local teams excelling at many levels. The event will see teams arrive from all over Ireland along with their supporters for a mighty weekend in the West. Alongside Mick Galwey’s Legends team, a special team headed by All-Ireland winning Kerry GAA star and Sunday Game pundit, Dara Ó Cinnéide will also compete along with other local GAA and sports stars. C.L.G an Gaeltacht have made their facilities available for the event and its shaping up to be an excellent event. For further information contact Adrian on 087-2976569 or Damien on 086-8187810. Five-a-side form of Tag rugby is played by mixed teams of men and women and is a very popular fun break away for all who take part, whether as players or spectators. All of the festivals are open, meaning that no qualification is necessary, nor do you need to have a team registered in the Summer Leagues. Entries will be allocated on a first come first served basis but slots are filling up fast so register soon on www.irfutag.ie to avoid disappointment. Pictured, l-r, Sean Paidi Gromeil, Neasa Misteal, Mick Galwey, Edel Lovett and Damien Brown launching the Beach Tag Rugby Tournament in Muirioch.

Legendary Russian poet to read at Féile na Bealtaine event

Féile na Bealtaine presents: Yevgeny Yevtushenko - Mall Arts Centre, Youghal, Co. Cork, Sunday July 5th, 4.30pm.
One of the 20th and 21st centuries’ most inspirational and influential poets will visit Ireland this July as the special guest at an event hosted and facilitated by members of Dingle arts festival committee Féile na Bealtaine. World renowned Russian poet, Yevgeny Yevtushenko (pictured left on the cover of TIME) has been invited by Feile na Bealtaine to read from his vast canon of poetry on Sunday July 5th at the Mall Arts Centre, Town hall, Youghal, Co. Cork. Yevgeny Yevtushenko was born in 1933 in Siberia and is considered to be Russia's best-known living poet. His most famous poem Babii Yar (1961) denounced the Soviet distortion of historical fact regarding the Nazi massacre of an estimated 34,000 Ukrainian Jews in September 1941, as well as the anti-Semitism still widespread in the Soviet Union - the poem was not officially printed in Russia until 1984. Poet-laureate of Russia, besides his poetry Yevtushenko has also written essays and a novel and is also a film-director. His writings have been translated into more than 70 languages. He is also the recipient of many honours, including the highest decoration in Russia - Great Achievements for the Motherland. Yevgeny Yevtushenko is currently a distinguished professor at Tulsa University in Oklahoma. He describes, his own words: “my own poems…they’ve endowed me with wealth…no one told me how to spend it” Music accompaniment will be provided by Principal Viola player with National Symphony Orchestra John Lynch and cellist Ms Jane Hughes. The event is to be chaired by Féile na Bealtaine Director, Dr. Mícheál Fanning, the renowned Dingle poet whose most recent published collections include Briathar & Solas (Echoes & Shadows).

Gardai urge vigilance following Dingle burglary

Gardai are urging the public to exercise extra vigilance with regards to the the security of their homes and businesses following a burglary in Dingle last weekend. A break-in occurred at a premises on Mail Road on Saturday night and they are also looking into vandalism which occurred in the Wine Strand area. This comes hot on the heels of a number of break-ins in Blennerville and in Tralee the previous week. Any information or suspicious activity can be reported to Dingle Garda Station at 066-9151522.

Who will be the new Mayor of Kerry?

Kerry County Council will meet on Friday to appoint the new Mayor of Kerry and the word is that Dingle Councillor Seamus Cosai Fitzgerald (pictured left) may be among the the front-runners up for consideration. The Mayor, or Chairperson of the Council, will be elected by those elected to the Council in the June 5th Local Area Elections and as Cllr. Cosai Fitzgerald is returning for a third term, his seniority is sure to considered in the selection process. Fellow Fine Gael Councillors Bobby O'Connell and Tim Buckley, who are returning for their fourth term in office are also likely candidates. Independent Fianna Fail Councillor Danny Healy-Rae may also be among the possible candidates for Mayor, following in his brother's footsteps (Cllr. Michael Healy-Rae). According to sources, negotiations between the parties are on-going in an effort to form alliances in the Council and "anything is possible" combination-wise. 14 councillors must ratify the election of the new Mayor of Kerry; all will be revealed this Friday at the newly elected Council's inaugural meeting.

Funding scheme for musicians announced

MAKE A PERFECT PITCH FOR FUNDING!
There is some good news on the horizon for Corca Dhuibhne's aspiring musicians and groups as Music Network today (16th June 2009) announced details of the second round of the Music Capital Scheme, an initiative designed to provide support for the purchase of musical instruments funded by the Arts Council. The scheme and research project was operated on a pilot basis in 2008 with a view to recommending formalised structures for ongoing support in this area. Closing date for applications 5:30pm Monday 2nd November 2009. Awards in this scheme will be made to individual artists, to ensembles and to organisations supporting musical practice in other ways. A total fund of up to €113,000 in grant aid is available in 2009. This year, there are two categories of support under the Music Capital Scheme aimed at highly skilled performing artists and non-professional performing groups/ensembles. Stream 1: Instrument banks Total available funding in 2009: €75,000. This fund aims to develop instrument banks for non-professional ensembles such as: brass and silver bands, concert bands, symphonic wind ensembles, pipe bands, céilí bands, youth and amateur orchestras and ensembles fife and drum (and other marching) bands, big bands, community music groups (including percussion and samba ensembles) pop/rock music collectives, traditional music groups/organisations, choirs. Available to non-professional organisations only. Stream 2: Individual Instruments. Total available funding in 2009: €37,900. This fund aims supports the purchase of high value musical instruments. One or more awards may be made to support up to 50% of the value of the instrument. Available to highly skilled individual performing artists only. A total of €347,000 was awarded to 41 individuals and organisations through the Music Capital Scheme and Research Project in 2008 including; professional musicians, non-professional performing groups and community-based organisations involved in supporting music practice in their area for the purchase of musical instruments and rehearsal equipment. The scheme elicited 298 applications across three funding streams with the value of funding requests totalling in excess of €2,200,000.Closing date for receipt of applications is 5:30 p.m. Monday 2nd November 2009. For further information visit http://www.musicnetwork.ie/. You many also contact the Music Capital Scheme Manager at 01-6719429 or e-mail capitalscheme@musicnetwork.ie.

The Big Irish Language Survey launched

Iontaobhas na Gaelscolaíochta (InaG), the Trust Fund for Irish-medium education have launched a major online survey in order to reveal what people think of the Irish language. "Our main role at this stage is to support communities, primarily in the north of Ireland, who wish to fulfil the dream of an education for their children through Irish" said Dr. Reamai Mathers of InaG. "The value of our native culture and bilingualism is being increasingly understood in relation a range of social, intellectual and academic benefits.It is an ambition of our Trust to extend our work throughout Ireland and indeed perhaps overseas, it is therefore of paramount of importance for us to hear the opinions of people in relation to the language be they positive or negative. To this end we have devised a survey that will allow people to express their thoughts on a range of issues." The survey will run online from now until the end of July 2009, visit http://www.iontaobhasnag.com/ to take part.

Cruinniú Glór na Gael agus Coiste CDAC

Fógra - Beidh cruinniú san Ionad Teangan ar an Meall sa Daingean ar an Mháirt seo chughainn,
16 Meitheamh, ag 8.00 i.n. maidir le
a) An togra Corca Dhuibhne ag Caint agus b) Coiste Ghlór na nGael an Daingin a athbhunú.
Fáilte roimh chách!

Cork beat Kerry in Munster SFC replay

Cork 1-17 Kerry 0-12

Cork move into the Munster final to face Limerck after a pulsating win over Kerry at Páirc Uí Chaoimh this evening.

Pictured left, Dingle's Tommy Griffin in action todday at Pairc Ui Chaoimh.

For a minute to minute run down of the game and video footage visit: http://www.rte.ie/sport/gaa/championship/2009/0613/cork_kerry.html

Thrills and spills as Slalom Series hits Castlegregory

The Irish Slalom Series Round 3 takes kicks off in Castlegregory this weekend, hosted by Jamie Knox Water-sport this Saturday and Sunday. In the context of water skiing, slalom means to use only one ski. Slalom skiing is considerably difficult and so one usually learns on two skis before switching to one. Once one is comfortable on two skis, learning to slalom ski is accomplished by setting the binding loose on one ski so that it may be dropped. Once the skier is out of the water, he or she will step out of the loose ski and slip the foot into the toe plate binding in the slalom ski. Slalom skiing dramatically increases the speed and agility of the water skier. Once the proper technique for edging across a wake and into the turn is learned, slalom skiing becomes quite high speed and thrilling and this weekend's event promises to be a dramatic and exciting event well worth witnessing! For more info visit the event's page on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/event.php?eid=82271383718 or contact 066-7139411.

Special Cupcakes and Coffee morning at Fenton's this Friday

If sweet things tickle your fancy then Dingle is the place to be this Friday morning as a special fundraising Cupcakes and Coffee morning is taking place at Fenton's Restaurant, Green Street, Dingle this Friday (June 12th) in aid of SPECIAL OLYMPICS IRELAND. All are welcome to attend and the following Dingle based shops will be participate in a little fashion show: Tigmaya, Woollen Store, La Boheme, Strand House, Lisabeth Mulcahy, Milliner Kathleen McAuliffe, McKennas, Finn Mccools, Garveys Sports and the Mountain Man.

Cup Cakes and Coffee will be served between 11am- 1pm and the your contribution towards the event will be at your own personal discretion. A raffle will also take place and prizes include Dinner Vouchers for Fenton's Restaurant and a beautiful handmade embroidered cushion made by Jill Barton (www.cuisin.co.uk). So support SPECIAL OLYMPICS IRELAND this Friday morning by dropping into Fenton's on Green Street to enjoy Cupcakes, Coffee and Fashion in the heart of Dingle.Contact Pat Fenton at 066-9152172 for more information.

Dingle LEA Count: breakdown of votes cast

Key: ( ) = transfers, (E.) = Eliminated, ** = Elected

PARTY----CANDIDATE------------------ 1st count ------ 2nd count ------- 3rd count ------ 4th count

Ind---------Breanainn O Beaglaoi --------149 (E.)
FF --------- Breandan Fitzgerald----------1053 (60) ------1113 (138)----------1251 (E.)
FG----------Seamus Cosai Fitzgerald-----1580 - (79)----- 1659 (305) -------- 1964 (478)-----2242**
FG----------Brendan Griffin--------------- 2038 ( 79) ------2114 (114)----------2228 (89)-------2317**
Lab-------- Pat Hanafin---------------------813 (129) ------- 942 - (E.)
SF----------Teresa Moriarty-------------- 253 - (E.)
Ind---------Bridget O’Connor ------------ 1179(136) ------ 1315 (179) -------- 1494(126)-------1620 - (E.)
GP----------Darach O Murchu------------ 216 - (E.)
FF----------Micheal O’Shea---------------- 2011 (43)--------2054(88)---------- 2142(375)-------2517**

Non-Transferable ---------------------------------(95)---------------(118)--------------- (183)

Sean Kelly (FG) and Alan Kelly (Lab) take remaining Ireland South seats

Labour Senator Alan Kelly (pictured left) held off a late challenge from sitting Independent MEP, Kathy Sinnott to take the final seat in the Ireland South constituency on the eighth and final count. Mr Kelly from North Tipperay had looked to be set for a close contest for the last seat with Tralee's Toireasa Ferris of Sinn Fein who outpolled him on the first count by 12.98 per cent to 12.88 per cent remaining in contention right to the seventh count when she was dramatically overtaken by Ms Sinnott. This came following the distribution of Fine Gael’s Sean Kelly’s (pictured right) surplus of over 10,000 votes courtesy of running mate Colm Burke’s elimination. But although Ms Sinnott overtook Ms Ferris, she remained some 8,753 behind Alan Kelly and in the end it proved too big a gap to close. Alan Kelly received a total of 21,676 transfers from Ms Ferris to reach a final tally of 105,597 while Ms Sinnott received some 19,966 transfers from Ms Ferris to reach a final figure of 95,134, leaving Mr Kelly to take the final seat on the eighth count without reaching the quota. Former GAA President, Kerryman Sean Kelly of Fine Gael polled an impressive 92,579 or 18.58 per cent on the first count and was duly elected on the sixth count when he benefitted from a massive transfer of 36,318 from party colleague and sitting MEP, Colm Burke to carry him over the quota of 124,532. Afterwards, Sean Kelly said that he was both “humbled and delighted” by his success as he was shouldered high by supporters. Alan Kelly and Sean Kelly now join sitting MEP Brian Crowley (FF) as the three Ireland South MEPs.

West Kerry man elected to European Parliamant

Lispole native Joe Higgins has taken the third European seat in the Dublin Constituency. It is a monumental achievement for the Corca Dhuibhne man, making him the first person from Kerry to be elected to the European Parliament. The three seats in the Dublin Constituency have been taken by Fine Gael's Gay Mitchell, Labour's Proinsías De Rossa and the Socialist Party's Joe Higgins. Mr Higgins was elected to the Dublin Constituency on the seventh count at around 5.15am this morning. He received 22,201 votes from eliminated Sein Féin candidate Mary Lou McDonald, leaving him with 82,366. Joe Higgins said that he would serve the needs of ordinary people in the EU; he said his appointment was bad news for corporate Europe and the big business culture. His mother Ellen said she was proud of her son who she said was 'very good'.

Crowley elected in Ireland South Euro Elections

Fianna Fáil outgoing MEP Brian Crowley has been re-elected to the European Parliament in the South constituency on the fourth count. Mr Crowley's victory means five Irish MEPs have now been elected.

O'Shea, Cosai and Griffin deemed elected in Dingle area

The results are in with Micheal O'Shea of Fianna Fail, Seamus Cosai Fitzgerald and Brendan Griffin of Fine Gael taking the three council seats in the Dingle Electoral Area. Both Milltown's Micheal O'Shea (pictured left) and Dingle's Seamus Cosai Fitzgerald (pictured far left) reached their quota polling 2517 and 2442 respectively. Brendan Griffin of Keel (pictured right) took the third remaining seat polling an impressive 2317. It signals the loss of the Fianna Fail seat previously held by Breandan MacGearailt and the party will be disappointed to lose a seat in an area which previously considered a Fianna Fail stronghold. Brendan Griffin ran a dynamic campaign and his supporters will be delighted with his strong showing. Micheal O'Shea also had a good showing consolidating the strong support he has cultivated in the past five years. Despite whispers that he may have faced an uphill struggle, with several candidates running the the Dingle/Gaeltacht area, Seamus Cosai Fitzgerald finished strongly proving that the work he has undertaken in Corca Dhuibhne during his tenure as a councillor has not gone unnoticed. Fianna Fail will have to re-assess their position in the Dingle area; their position will not have been helped by their reluctance to support the movement to reinstate the Dingle name on signposts after 93% of people voted in support of the bilingual names of Dingle/Daingean Ui Chuis. Further blows to the fishing, farming and tourism industry and soaring unemployment also seems to have weighed heavily on the minds of the local electorate, reflecting the national swing against Fianna Fail. Winning two seats in the Dingle area is a major coup for the Fine Gael party as they add to the growing number of seats they have managed to clinch around the country.However the loss of Breandan MacGearailt's seat, as Breandan Fitzgerald did not replicate his forerunners success, is disappointing for the West Kerry area as two seats now reside to the east of the constituency. Brendan Griffin is sure to bring a fresh approach to the fray as a young and enthusiastic individual who has been involved in many local community initiatives for many years.

Tallymen predict Griffin, O'Shea & Cosai for Dingle seats

Breandan MacGearailt's west Kerry council seat is heading east according to tally predictions for Dingle Electoral Area. The latest tallies indicate that the three seats will most likely go to Keel's Brendan Griffin (Fine Gael) pictured left, Micheal O'Shea of Milltown (Fianna Fail) pictured right and potentially Seamus Cosai Fitzgerald of Dingle (Fine Gael). The tallies indicate the following standings: Brendan Griffin (Fine Gael)-2,012, Michael O'Shea (Fianna Fail)-2,006, Seamus Cosai Fitzgerald (Fine Gael)-1,569, Bridget O'Connor (Ind.)-1,168, Breandan Fitzgerald (Fianna Fail)-1,046, Patrick Hanafin (Labour)-809, Teresa Moriarty (Sinn Fein)-249, Darach O Murchu (Greens)-212, Breandan O Beaglaoi (Ind.)-147.

Crowley and Kelly looking good for European Seats

While counting in the European Elections is not to take place until tomorrow, an RTE Exit Poll is predicting that Brian Crowley (Fianna Fail) and Kerryman Seán Kelly (Fine Gael) are to take seats in Ireland South. For more details on this development visit http://www.rte.ie/news/elections/

Election '09: Local & European

Follow all the action in the local election count today on http://elections.kerrycoco.ie/. Developed by Kerry County Council the website will include updated information and the results as they come in. A live broadcast from the Count Centres will take place today (Saturday 6th June) and the results of the count will updated continuously. After the count statistical analysis of the voting, elected representative details and further information will be made available on the website.
Live streaming will take place from Count Centres from 6pm this evening, for info on how things are going in Dingle visit
http://elections.kerrycoco.ie/traleestream.htm.

Continuous updates are also available on Twitter at: http://twitter.com/countykerry. The Dingle News will also broadcast updates as they happen; in the meantime you can follow whats happening across the country on the RTE News Feed above.

Dun Laoghaire-Dingle Yacht Race, June 6th-8th

Spills and thrills on the Ocean waves
High octane encounters on the ocean waves will bring a carnival atmosphere to Dingle this June as the Dun Laoghaire to Dingle Yacht Race kicks off this Saturday June 6th. Hosted by the National Yacht Club in association with Dingle Sailing Club (www.saildingle.ie), this race has earned a reputation of being one of the toughest challenges on the Irish Sea. After leaving Scotsman’s Bay, East of Dun Laoghaire, on June 6th, competitors shall tackle the seaward extremities of Wicklow Head, the Old Head of Kinsale, Fastnet Rock, Mizen Head, Gull Rock, Washerwoman Rock off the Great Skellig before finally arriving at the finish line at the entrance to Dingle Harbour. The sight of the yachts pulling into Dingle on June 8th is sure to prove some spectacle as the 40 ft+ beauties plough through the playground of Fungie the Dolphin. This is sure to be a tremendously exciting event with as Dingle and the surrounding area has several excellent vantages points along the coastline to view the yachts come into the harbour. In true Dingle style, the competitors will be greeted with a flurry of music, dance and celebration in recognition of their amazing achievement. More information on the Dun Laoghaire-Dingle Yacht Race, which is sponsored by the Dingle Skellig Hotel, is available at www.nyc.ie, www.dingle-peninsula.ie or www.dingleskellig.com. Check out http://www.dodingle.com/ for information on accomodation.

Is Dingle in danger of losing a County Council seat?

The West Kerry Gaeltacht could lose a County Council seat after the June 5th elections according to a prominent figure in local politics in the area.The seasoned campaigner, who wishes to remain anonymous as he is involved in one of the candidates campaigns, claims that with nine candidates contesting three seats, and six of those concentrated in the same West Kerry Gaeltacht area, the region is in grave danger of losing representation in Kerry County Council. “With six running together in a small concentrated area, based on the feedback we are getting on the ground, there is a strong possibility that they may cancel each other out on June 5th” said the source. The possibility that the West Kerry Gaeltacht will lose one of its Councillors is further enhanced by the fact that the recent election boundary revision has seen an additional 600 votes come into the eastern quadrant of the Dingle Electoral Area in Milltown which will no doubt favour candidates in that district. The West Kerry Gaeltacht previously had two sitting councillors: Cllr. Breandán MacGearailt and Cllr. Seamus Cosai Fitzgerald. Cllr. MacGearailt is not re-contesting his seat, however Cllr. Cosai Fitzgerald is seeking re-election. Joining Cllr. Cosai Fitzgerald in the fray in the West Kerry Gaeltacht electoral district are: Breandán Fitzgerald (Fianna Fáil), Patrick Hanafin (Labour), Breannainn Ó Beaglaoi (Independent), Theresa Raftery-Moriarty (Sinn Féin) and Darach Ó Murchú (Green Party). These join candidates seeking election to the east of the Dingle Electoral Area, sitting Milltown-based Cllr. Micheál O’Shea (FF), Keel's Brendan Griffin (FG) and Camp’s Bridget O’Connor (Independent). “The feedback we’ve been getting from door to door is very mixed; if the Dingle and West Kerry Gaeltacht area goes from having two councillors to one at all it will be a major blow to the area which is already suffering with countless lay-offs and a lack of sustainable employment” the source added. "Hopefully this will not be the case but there is a real possibility that this situation could arise."

Pictured above left: An image of US President Barak Obama among the Kerry County Council candidates posters at Milltown roundabout in Dingle.

Dingle artist reveals life on the ocean waves

Mairneálaigh, an exciting new exhibition by Dingle artist Deirdre McKenna (pictured above) will be unveiled this Saturday at the Dingle Marina Centre at 8pm. This exhibit is an exclusive preview of a selection of oil paintings that will be on show later this summer in Belfast’s Waterfront Hall from one of Kerry’s most exciting young artists who has exhibited across Ireland, Europe and the USA. The Belfast exhibition is set to coincide with the Tall Ships Atlantic Challenge and it is considered a major honour for any artist to be selected to show at this international event. According to Deirdre, these paintings look at a tradition of maritime activities, drawing on personal experiences at sea. The often life-size oil paintings represent contemporary scenes of centuries’ old sea-faring traditions, borne from Deirdre’s own personal relationship and fascination with all things maritime. “Growing up in Dingle, the sea has always been an inspiration to me” she said, “In 2007 I was one of the thirty pilgrims to sail from Dingle to Santiago De Compestela in Spain on the Jeanie Johnston, the trip remains a constant source of inspiration." This exhibition combines Deirdre’s love of the sea and her career as an artist . Mairnéalaigh will be launched this Saturday, May 30th, at 8pm. The exhibition will run from May 30th – June 1st at the Dingle Marina Centre from 11am-5pm and all are welcome to attend. More information on Deirdre McKenna is available at http://www.waterfront.co.uk/ or http://www.deirdremckenna.com/. Locals may known Deirdre as the daughter of Pádraig and Siobhán McKenna, Cuilín.

Dingle Way Challenge to kick off this Satuday at 5am

The Dingle Way Challenge, which takes place tomorrow, Saturday May 30th, will see walkers from all over Ireland and beyond converge on Corca Dhuibhne to walk amid the stunning scenery of West Kerry in aid of The Stuart Mangan Appeal. Stuart Mangan (25) from Cork (pictured right and far right) suffered a devastating spinal injury in 2008, while playing rugby with his club Hammersmith and Fulham RFC in London. He had just completed five years of university studies, graduating with a Law Degree from UCC and a Masters in European Business from ESC Paris, before he was hired on the trading floor of BNP Paribas in London. Sadly this sporting accident has left Stuart totally paralyzed from the neck down and will require 24-hour care for the rest of his life. The Dingle Way Challenge event promises to be an exceptional day in the mountains taking in the surroundings and the history of West Kerry. This trek is 55 km in length and is broken into 4 stages: Tralee to Camp, Camp to Annascaul, Annascaul to Lispole, Lispole to Dingle. All participants are asked to register at 4am in Blennerville Windmill Car Park on the morning of Saturday 30th May 2009. More information on The Dingle Way Challenge and the Stuart Managn Appeal can be accessed at http://www.stuartmangan.org/.

Major summer concert at Ionad an Bhlascaoid, Dún Chaoin

Ionad an Bhlascaoid in Dún Chaoin will play host to two of the most accomplished singers in the Gaelic tradition, Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh from Dún Chaoin in West Kerry and Julie Fowlis from North Uist in the Scottish Hebrides, in a special concert at the centre on June 6th. It will be the final concert of their nationwide promotion tour of their new collaboration 'Dual', an album on which the two singers work alongside Éamon Doorley and Ross Martin. The album is a collection of songs and music from Ireland and Scotland which have been given an interesting twist. For example, on one of the tracks Muireann sings some verses of the famous Irish song 'An Chóisir' while Julie mixes in verses of the Scottish song 'Chuirinn mo ghiollan a dh'iomann nan caorach' Also included on the album are beautiful renditions of songs like 'Beauty Deas an Oileáin' and 'Alasdair Mhic Giolla Ghasda'. The collaboration has earned good reviews around the globe. Robin Deneslow from The Guardian says 'Fowlis is Scottish, while Nic Amhlaoibh is Irish, and this delicate, finely performed set explores the musical links and traditions of the two Gaelic communities... one of the most intriguing folk albums of the year', and Amanda Darling of The Stornoway Gazette calls it 'A marriage of two like minded souls, this album 'Dual', meaning to 'interlace, twine or braid' or 'one's inheritance', truly showcases the girls prodigious talents.' The two have won numerous awards recently. Muireann toured and performed with various musicians and groups before joining the group Danú in 2003. In 2004 they won the BBC 2 Folk Award for "Best Group". At the same awards, the song "The County Down" by Tommy Sands that Danú had recently recorded, won "Best Song". Muireann herself won "Best Singer" at the liveireland.com Awards in 2005. Now a regular contributor to television and radio programmes at home and abroad, she featured prominently in the recent "Highland Sessions" BBC television series, celebrating the best of Irish and Scottish traditional music and song. Julie was awarded Folk Singer Of The Year at the BBC Radio 2 Folk Music Awards 2008, and she won Album Of The Year and Gaelic Singer Of The Year at the Scots Trad Music Awards 2008. This concert is being held with the assistance of Ealaín na Gaeltachta. Tickets are available at €15 from The Blasket Centre. Further Information: Dáithí de Mórdha, Ionad an Bhlascaoid: (066) 9156444 or 0879778871. Visit http://www.muireann.ie/ and http://www.juliefowlis.com/ for more info.

Tag Rugby Tournament to take place in Muiríoch this June

The second Rugbaí Corca Dhuibhne Beach Tag Rugby Festival will take place on Saturday June 27th at Muríoch Beach this summer. Rugby in West Kerry is undergoing massive growth at the minute with local teams excelling at many levels. A spin off from this has been the success of Beach Tag Rugby and Rugbaí Corca Dhuibhne, Europe’s most westerly club, are delighted to host the tag rugby festival in Kerry this year. The event will see teams arrive from all over Ireland along with supporters where a warm welcome awaits them. Mick Galwey’s Legends teams will compete again this year as well as a special team headed by All-Ireland winning Kerry GAA star and Sunday Game pundit, Dara Ó Cinnéide. One of the GAA’s main breeding grounds for Gaelic football stars, “An Gaeltacht” at Gallarus (located right beside the beach) have made their facilities available for the event to ensure that the festival runs successfully. With the help of the various accommodation centres, restaurants and pubs the organising committee hope that all teams and spectators have an enjoyable weekend. For further information contact Adrian on 087-2976569 or Damien on 086-8187810 or visit www.irishrugby.ie/tag to register your team for this event.

Six Nations Trophy, Triple Crown & Magners League Cup in Dingle

Excitement gripped Dingle last Thursday as members of Munster RC brought the SIX NATIONS TROPHY, the TRIPLE CROWN and the MAGNERS LEAGUE CUP to the CBS Hall on John Street to an event hosted by Cumann Rugbaí Corca Dhuibhne. Hundreds of people turned out to photograph and touch European Rugby's top accolades. Medal presentations were also made on the night to the Rugbaí Corca Dhuibhne U-16s, (pictured above) winners of the West Munster Plate and the U-18 Corca Dhuibhne Ladies' team, winners of Division II of the Munster Provincial League this year. The Rugbaí Corca Dhuibhne Team Social will take place this Friday night in Dannos, where the seniors will be presented with the Galwey-Foley County Championship Cup. Several awards will also be made to the Seniors and the Corca Dhuibhne Over-35s. All are welcome to attend.

Father and son team cycle 10,000 miles from Dingle to Tokyo!

Mark and Sam make it to Japan!

After leaving Dingle on July 26th 2008, father and son team Mark and Sam Swain completed the adventure of a lifetime this week as they reached Tokyo last Thursday having cycled 15,685 km (aprox 10,000 miles) across Europe and Asia from Dingle to Tokyo. Mark (50) and his son Sam (18) set out last summer from Commenoule with the intention of cycling from Dingle to Tokyo last July; from cycling through Kerry, Cork and Waterford on to the Ferry in Rosslare, traversing the UK, gaining access to France and Mainland Europe via the Channel Tunnel. Then it was on through France, Germany, Austria, Bulgaria, Turkey, Iran, Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos and China before reaching their destination in Japan. Mark and Sam are originally from Canterbury in England however have been dividing their time between the UK and Dingle for the past 20 years, where they have a home. According to Mark, this trip has been in the pipeline for almost eight years as when his son Sam was ten years old he asked how long would it take to cycle to Japan. As 2008 saw San turn 18 and Mark reach the milestone age of 50, they decided it was the perfect time to undertake this challenge. The pair are expected to visit Dingle later this summer where they will, no doubt, receive a heroes welcome. Mark has documented the trip on a travel blog and intends to write a book about the experience. Pictured above left and right, Sam and Mark in Dingle, July 2008 and afterwards, in Japan May 2009. Read up on Mark and Sam's adventures at www.bugbitten.com/father_son_cycle.

Mick Flannery dates announced for Dingle this July

Fans of real music will be delighted to hear that Mick Flannery is set to play two gigs in MacCarthy's this July 23rd and 24th. His gigs at the same venue earlier this year were an amazing success and complete sell-outs, so fans are advised to get their dibs in early-on as this is an amazing opportunity to see one of Ireland's most exciting new artists in the intimate setting of MacCarthy's Pub on Upper Main Street/Goat's Street in Dingle. Contact MacCarthy's Pub at 066-9151206 for more infomation.
"Mick Flannery is a 25 year old stone mason who was brought up on a farm outside Blarney, Co. Cork, Ireland. After a stint in a music college in Cork, he travelled to the US where he entered the U.S. Songwriting Competition in Nashville, Tennessee and, to his surprise, won two top awards for his compositions.If asked, Mick adamantly refuses to talk about himself. The best you’ll get from him on any given day is, maybe, an admission that he’s a bit “grumpy”, he enjoys a good game of poker, and he’d love to own a Gibson® ES-335.So. Mick writes all of his songs (words and music) and plays both piano and guitar." (source: www.mickflannery.com)
White Lies - Mick Flannery - Released 2008 (EMI Music Ireland) - Tracks - Safety Rope, California, Tomorrow’s Paper, Wish You Well, Goodbye, Near or Far, Wait Here, What Do You See, Smiling Girl, Arise Now, Do Me Right.
Mick’s band: Mick Flannery - lead vocals, piano, guitar, Karen O’Doherty - violin, vocals, Yvonne Daly - vocals, Hugh Dillon - electric guitar, Brian Hassett - bass, Christian Best - drums.

Classic 'Duo' to perform in Dingle

DUO CHAGALL
Lab na Mainstreach – Sráid Eoin - Dingle – Friday, May 22nd
Music lovers are in for a real treat on Friday May 22nd as Music-Network and AnnÓg present classic pairing, Duo Chagall at Lab na Mainstreach in Dingle. With Gillian Williams on Violin and Arun Rao on Cello, this husband and wife duo will perform works by Mozart, Raymond Deane, Mihaud, Paganini, Benjamin Britten and Handel. Over the years the duo have given world premieres of works by Raymond Deane and Rhona Clarke and are one of Ireland's most highly regarded chamber ensembles. As a recent addition to the Music Network Artist Roster the duo take their place amongst many of the country’s finest classical soloists and ensembles. Gillian Williams is one of Ireland's most accomplished violinists, as a student, she won all major competitions in Ireland, as well as the Louis Pesckai Memorial Prize at Guildhall for virtuoso playing. Commanding a wide-ranging repertoire, her characteristic warmth, intensity and clarity of tone have won her widespread praise. She has performed extensively throughout Ireland, Britain, America and Italy, including numerous solo performances at prestigious venues such as the National Concert Hall, Dublin, and St James' Piccadilly, and concerti by Mozart, Vivaldi, Bruch and Tchaikovsky with conductors Colman Pearce, Gerhardt Markson and David Seaman. Established French cellist Arun Rao is a much sought-after in orchestral, solo and teaching fields. His recitals of unaccompanied cello works by JS Bach, Reger, Piatti, Kodaly, Britten and other twentieth century composers have earned him considerable public and critical acclaim. Tickets are €10 and are available on 087 8546572. This concert is promoted by Music Network and AnnÓg.

Féile Scéalaíochta agus Amhránaíochta

Féile Scéalaíochta agus Amhránaíochta Oidhreacht Chorca Dhuibhne
22ú Bealtaine, 2009.
Beidh Comórtaisí Amhránaíochta agus Scéalaíochta don aosóg á n-eagrú ag Oidhreacht Chorca Dhuibhne an Aoine seo, 22ú Bealtaine 2009.
Beidh Comórtas Amhránaíochta Fé 12 agus fé 15 ar siúl sa Mháimín i mBaile an Fheirteáraigh (sa phictiúr) ag 7.30 agus Comórtaisí Scéalaíochta fé 12 agus fé 15 ar siúl sa Mhúsaem ar an Aoine chomh maith ag 7.00. Bronnfar buanchorn agus bonn óir don gcéad áit sa dá chomórtas fé 12 agus bonn óir agus bonn airgid ins na comórtaisí fé 15. Fáilte mhór roimis mhuintir na háite teacht agus éisteacht leis na hamhránaithe agus na scéalaithe óga seo. Beidh an ócáid á eagrú le tacaíocht Ealaíon na Gaeltachta. Gach eolas Áine Uí Laoithe/Máire Uí Shíthigh 066-9156100.

Cast your vote in the Dingle News Poll

The Dingle Local Area Council Elections take place on June 5th and, with an extremely crowded marketplace this time around with no less than nine candidates contesting three seats, predicting an outcome is proving to be nigh-on impossible. Sitting councillors Micheal O'Shea (FF, Milltown) and Seamus Cosaí Fitzgerald (FG, Dingle) are seeking re-election with Brendan Griffin (Keel, FG) and Bridget O'Connor (Camp, Ind.) trying their luck for the second-time round. Several new candidates have entered the fray including Breandán Fitzgerald (FF, Dingle), Patrick Hanafin (Lab., Dingle), Theresa Raftery (SF, Lispole), Darach Ó Murchú (Greens) and Breannainn Ó Beaglaoi (Ind.). With so many candidates concentrated in the Dingle area and an increase in the register eligible to vote in the Milltown/Castlemaine area (following last years boundary revisions) this is a council election like no other. Will the additional votes in the Eastern part of the constituency, coupled with a high concentration of candidates in the Dingle area, upset the apple-cart? It could create a scenario where West loses out to East as the many candidates in Dingle could substantially diminish each others core support, while candidates due-east pick up the additional support with the extended boundary in their own area. Only time will tell but this election, especially with the current economic climate on the Dingle Peninsula, is one which may shake things up substantially. By taking part in The Dingle News Poll (on the left side of this web-page) we can all gain an insight into how the candidates currently stand and what the outcome is likely to be.PLEASE NOTE: This poll is facilitated and regulated by polldaddy.com. The Dingle News has no ability to alter or interfere with results and can only view the progress of the poll like other visitors to this page. Reproduction of the results of this poll is prohibited.

On-Stage summer camps set for Dingle Childcare Centre

All the world's a stage...in Dingle!

With all the talks of recession you'd be forgiven for thinking that all the life had been sucked out of the county. Not in Dingle however as the local Globe Academy Stage School have launched an exciting series of on-stage summer camps in an effort to dispel the doom and gloom, focusing on drama, singing and dancing for six to 12 year-olds. Hosted by Dingle native Jennifer Riordan, a member of the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art Teacher's Association, the Globe Academy On-Stage Summer Camps will take place this year from July 17th-31st and August 10th-14th at Dingle Childcare Centre Áiseanna na hÓige. "We're delighted to bring these On-Stage Summer Camps to Dingle this year" said Jennifer, "with drama, singing and dancing, its a great way for children to build confidence and make new friends." Since its establishment in Dingle in 2008, the Globe Academy Stage School has been a real hit, hosting classes all around the Peninsula, enjoying major success with local productions of Mamma Mia!, Pinocchio and High School Musical to name a few. With a variety of classes, youth clubs and after school clubs the Globe Academy has gone from strength to strength as parents are delighted that their children now have access to a locally-run stage school, which is accredited by a major London institution. "On Sunday May 17th we will be holding our annual London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts exams with over 70 local children will taking Acting, Verse and Prose exams from this acclaimed institution" Jennifer explained, "and on June 5th we will host a certificate presentation night for the students in the Dingle Skellig Hotel." For more information click to enlarge the poster on the left. Contact Jennifer at 087-6476656 or visit www.globeacademy.ie.

Euro-candidate to raise Dingle name issue with Minister

Speaking on Radio Kerry on May 12th, Ireland-South European electoral candidate, Senator Dan Boyle, has confirmed that he will raise the Dingle name issue with his party leader, Minister for the Environment, John Gormley. Green Party Senator Boyle recently met with representatives from the Dingle Business Chamber who raised concerns about the impact the change was having on the local economy.The official name An Daingean was introduced almost four years ago under the Place-names Order of the Official Languages Act, 2003, by Minister Eamon Ó Cuiv. In 2006, 93% of residents of the West Kerry town voted overwhelmingly in favour of changing the name of the town from An Daingean back to the bilingual names of Dingle and Daingean Uí Chúis.The legislation needed for the change has yet to be brought in as signs, including all new signage being produced by Kerry County Council, continue to indicate only An Daingean. Sourced from www.radiokerry.ie/news

Pussycat Dolls to play Fitzgerald Stadium this summer

While admittedly The Dingle News is a news portal dedicated to the Dingle Peninsula, just 40 odd miles down
the road, Killarney's GAA pitch, Fitzgerald Stadium has been named as the location where The Pussycat Dolls will perform this summer. The Gleneagle's Patrick O'Donoghue made the announcement this week, confirming that The Pussycat Dolls will headline this summer's Kilalrney Summerfest. The group will play Fitzgerald Stadium on Saturday July 18th.Killarney Summerfest 2009 takes place between the 3rd - 18th of July with a range of events and activities plus more concerts which will be announced in due course. With Killarney being no-doubt packed for this event, festival goers would be advised to look towards the Dingle Peninsula for affordable accommodation with Killarney less than an hour's drive from Dingle itself, as availability coming close to the date may be limited. Check dodingle.com for deals.

Corca Dhuibhne ag Caint - Crannchur

CRANNCHUR - CORCA DHUIBHNE AG CAINT

Dé Máirt, 12u Bealtaine: 2.00 Centra, 2.30 Siopa Uí Mhóráin, 3.00 Siopa Spar.Dé hAoine an 15ú Bealtaine: 2.00 Siopa Londis Uí Fhlaithearta, 2.30 Siopa Uí Ghairbhí, 3.00 Páidí Ó Muircheartaigh. Dé Cheadaoin an 20ú: 2.30 Óstán Benners, Gáirdíní an Daingin agus An Caife Liteartha (i Benners), 3.30 Tigh Tabhairne John Benny, Brian/Máiréad de Staic agus an Oifig Turasóireachta (san Oifig Turasóireachta). Beidh T-Léinte amhain le buachaint ar gach deich ainm (má tá 100 ainm ar na cártaí beidh deich T-Leinte le buachtaint ag custaiméirí an ghnó sin). Beidh griangrafadóir i láthair ag an ócáid agus gan amhras, b’iontach é go mbeadh na badges á gcaitheamh agaibh.

Dingle GAA host special exhibit documenting club's history

Bringing the past to life

A very special photographic exhibition will be unveiled on Thursday, May 7th at the Dingle Library documenting the history of the Dingle GAA club. This special exhibition is being hosted by Dingle GAA in celebrating Lá na gClub as part of the GAA's national 125th anniversary celebrations. The exhibit is a great source of local pride as Dingle GAA has a long and proud history. In addition, all the photographs in the exhibit have been donated by local people. "The GAA has also been ever- present in Dingle life and the origins of the Club stretch back to the conception of the GAA itself" Dingle GAA stalwart Derry Murphy explained. "It is understood that the club started out as the Dingle Gascoignes in the late 1800s/early 20th century before evolving into two separate GAA clubs in the town itself, Na Piarsaigh (The Pearces) and Sráid Eoin (John Street). These teams enjoyed great success during the 1950s and 1960s. In the 1960s Bórd na nÓg began to develop in the town. This culminated in the joining of the two clubs to form the Dingle GAA club and the strong underage structure we enjoy today" he said.

This exhibition is very important as it recognises the the unsung heroes; the local people behind the scenes who dedicated their lives to promoting the GAA at community level and developing the local pitch, Páirc an Ághasaigh, providing young people with a social and sporting outlet which provided a lifeline in times of hardship.The exhibition will be opened by the Dingle Club Chairman Maurice O'Connor at 8pm, Thursday May 7th and all are welcome to attend. On Saturday night a special leácht will also take place in Benner's Hotel at 9pm. The exhibit will run until the May the 16th at the Dingle Library on Green Street. Admission is free. Pictured,l-r, Vincent Flannery, Maurice O'Connor, Mícheál Ó Conchúir, Paddy Browne and Derry Murphy of Dingle GAA at the Dingle Library on Green Street which will run from May 7th-16th.

Minister indicates Dingle Ice Plant to remain open

Minister indicates Dingle Ice Plant to remain open

Local councillors and candidates still seeking written guarantees as to employees' future

The Bórd Iascaigh Mara Ice-Plant in Dingle is to remain open according to a Fianna Fáil candidate in the Dingle Local Area Elections. Dingle's Breandán Fitzgerald (pictured above right) told Dingle News this week that, following discussions with the Minister for the Marine Tony Kileen TD and Ceann Comhairle John O'Donoghue, the plant is to remain open and that the two employees working there are to have their contracts renewed. “When I heard reports stating that the contracts of the two men working there were to end, I made representations to Minister for the Marine Tony Killeen and Ceann Comhairle John O’Donoghue to make the case to the Minister for Finance Brian Lenihan, for the employee’s contracts to be renewed" said Mr. Fitzgerald. "I was delighted to receive the calls from the Minister and Ceann Comhairle saying that the men’s contracts were to be renewed and Dingle Ice plant would remain open.The ice plant is an integral part of the fishing industry of the area and keeping the plant open is very important for the men working there, fishermen and local businesses in Dingle."According to Mr. Fitzgerald (35), who is seeking election to the council for the first time, local representation is the key to communities in West Kerry getting through these difficult times. The move will signal a collective sigh of relief from local fishermen who felt that their livelihoods would effectively come to an end, were the plant to close. As late as last Wednesday, with the contracts expiring on Thursday close of business, no clear indication about the future of the plant had been made as both BIM and the Department of the Marine had both refused to comment publicly on the situation. Sitting Councillor Seamus Cosaí Fitzgerald (pictured at the Ice Plant above, far right) made several representations to the Department of Finance BIM CEO, Jason Hooley while Labour Candidate Pat Hanafin facilitated a meeting with Labour Leader Eamonn Gilmore and local Dingle fishermen last Friday at the Pier. "I welcome the announcement however I am curious as to how this situation to arose" said Cllr. Cosaí Fitzgerald. "As late as last Wednesday and Thursday no clear indication had been made by the Minister as to how this was going to play out; personally I won't be happy until we see this declaration in writing.""With an election on the horizon, it's a question of funding we need definitive clarification, in writing from the Departments of Finance and BIM, as to the contracts of the employees and the future of the plant." Labour candidate Pat Hanafin echoed these concerns. "Labour leader Eamonn Gilmore met with a group of up to 60 fishermen in Dingle on Friday, who voiced their concerns; expressing the hardship endured and their sense of abandonment in light of this situation" said Mr. Hanafin, "if the survival of the fishing industry in West Kerry is crucial, why then did the Government allow this drama to ensue? We need concrete guarantees not false promises."

Dingle shop seeks budding authors

Write up my street!

Corca Dhuibhne's young creative talents are being summoned in West Kerry this week as Baile an Mhuilinn's Siopa Londis Ui Fhlaithearta (O'Flaherty's-Londis Dingle) invites students aged five to 18, to write a short story about their community. Thirty of these will then be selected to appear in a special book to be published in September. Along with the honour of being published, the winning student's schools will also receive 5,000 euro for books. The competition is part of a national drive by Londis to find 30 short stories for this book, with all proceeds going towards the Barnardos Children’s Charity. Students between the ages of five and 18 are asked to submit a short story drawing on the theme of community, no longer than 1,000 words. A semi-finalist will then be selected from each county and from those, acclaimed children’s author Sarah Webb will select the top 30. "We know that there is a lot of talent when it comes to writing in West Kerry and hope that as many students as possible take part" said PJ Fitzgerald of Londis-Dingle. Entry forms, downloads, plus supports for teachers, sample stories, plus writing-tips from Maeve Binchy are available online at www.londis.ie. Completed stories may be posted or dropped into O'Flaherty's Londis on the Ventry Road, Dingle before the closing date of May 29th.

Telephone 066-9150628 for more information. Pictured, PJ Fitzgerald of O'Flaherty's Londis-Dingle launching the Write Up Your Street initiative which is inviting young authors to submit a short story with the top thirty being published in a special book this September. Visit www.londiswriteupmystreet.com for more info.

Council seek suggestions to name new Dingle road

Name sought for new Dingle Road
The new relief road, between Dingle's Mail Road (Tralee Road) and John Street opened last Friday, marking a major development in the town's infrastructure. The road runs alongside the new Dingle Hospital and Páirc an Aghasaigh through land which was kindly donated by the Shane Connor and his family. Now, the search is on for this new road and the adjacent roundabout; Kerry County Council and the Dingle Business Chamber say that they will invite submissions in naming the road. There have been quite a few popular suggestions so far; the Fr. Rory O'Connor Road, O'Connor Road, Dr. Finbarr O'Shea Road are two of the first to have been mentioned locally. Contact John B Sheehy of the Dingle Business Chamber for more information or send your ideas to press.officer@kerrycoco.ie or Roads Department, County Buildings, Rathass, Tralee. With no UDC or town council, many decisions seem to be made on Dingle's behalf in Tralee and local people often feel that things to do with their own town are often out of their hands. This is one area where local people should have a real say, in naming this new road something which means something to the people of the town and surrounding area.

Corca Dhuibhne's Cúpla Focal

A new Udarás na Gaeltachta initative, Corca Dhuibhne ag Caint was launched in Dingle last week in an effort to encourage the use of the Irish language in business. According to Udarás na Gaeltachta the objective of this initiative is to promote and encourage the use of Irish in the Corca Dhuibhne area especially within the commercial sector. Twelve local companies and businesses have agreed to participate in the scheme which will see staff have the option of wearing specially designed badges indicating their level of spoken Irish. Currently there are three types of badges with three designations which employees can wear; Ag Foghlaim for learning those learning Irish, Cúpla Focal, for those competent in Irish and Seo Leat indicating fluency. Those advocating the scheme saythat this scheme is intended to make it easier for the customer to choose whether to do business in English or in Irish. "Up to now, there was no method of knowing which language to use in shops and businesses unless you knew members of staff personally" said Rachel Ní Riada of Udarás. "Participation is optional and the project will be presented in a fun way, making it easier for those who want to increase their use of Irish to do so."
The twelve Dingle businesses currently participating in the scheme are: Siopa Londis Uí Fhlaithearta, Garvey's SuperValu, Sheehy's Spar, Fitzgerald's Centra, Brian De Staic, Benners Hotel, the Caife Liteartha, Gáirdíní an Daingin and Slí na Sláinte, John Benny’s Moriarty’s Butchers, Morans and the Dingle Tourist Office.
Watch an online video of the launch at http://corcadhuibhneagcaint.wordpress.com/.

Gaeltacht funding cut fears

An bhfuil ‘Ciorrú’ géarr ag teacht?
MFG Comhar Dhuibhne powers to be transferred to Údarás
Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Éamon Ó Cuív T.D. has announced that the powers of Meitheal Forbartha na Gaeltacht (MFG) are to be transferred to Údarás na Gaeltachta. The West Kerry Gaeltacht’s MFG Comhar Dhuibhne, who have an office in Dingle and is run by regional manager Máire UÍ Léime, is one of those to be effected. Meitheal Forbartha na Gaeltachta is a voluntary organisation which was founded in 1991 to implement the LEADER programme in Gaeltacht regions. MFG Comhar Dhuibhne had been receiving ongoing funding for various community projects in the region, including €100,000 from dormant accounts fund, to develop a youth café providing an alcohol free environment for young people. The future of many of these projects is now unclear. In relation to the transfer of powers from MFG to Udarás, Minister Ó Cuiv stated that he was of the opinion that the Gaeltacht needs a single strong statutory authority that would run a wide range of projects and that the remit of the voluntary organisation would be reduced. Local reaction to this has been mixed as it feared that this is only the tip-of-the-iceberg when it comes to the ‘ciorrú’ of Gaeltacht funding and community initatives.

Ballyferriter's Little Black Beauty

Kerry's first friesian foal, bred from an approved stallion, has been born in Ballyferriter. Little black beauty Reinier was born on the farm of Cristina Belmonte-Scanlon in West Kerry on the 26th of April and his birth has caused quite the stir in Kerry's equine and equestrian circles. Reinier's sire is Tsjerk, one of the five Stallions in the world that have been approved and graded as preferent, the highest standard that can be obtained by this breed."Reinier was bred in Ballyferriter; his mother came to Ireland from Holland two years ago" breeder Cristina Belmonte-Scanlon explained. "Since then we have travelled and visited many stud farm speaking to breeders and trainers to enable us to choose the best stallion for our mare Jante fan Rewert and breed the best quality possible.We imported the semen from Holland and she did the rest!"Cristina and her husband T.J. are exicted about little's Reinier's future. "There is a bright future for this little foal as breeding stallion and as a sport horse" she added. Friesian horses are a rare breed from Friesland in Holland; the typical traits of these beautiful animals are their majestic manes, the feathering on the lower legs, their jet black colour and their powerful, elevated gaits. The build and the noble head of this creature, set on a lightly arched neck, complete the aristocratic and fiery appearance of this breed. The Friesian horse has increasingly developed itself as a sports horse over the past decades and now competes with other breeds at the highest levels of equestrian sports. Please forward all enquires to the: thebaroquehorse@gmail.com or contact Cristina Belmonte-Scanlon at The Baroque Horse, Lathieve Meanagh, Ballyferriter. Tel: 087-2950870. http://www.thebaroquehorse.com

Dingle dole numbers continue to rise (despite decreases elsewhere)

The news isn't good at the moment on the jobs front in Dingle with 758 signing on during the month of April, approximately double the numbers recorded during the same period in 2008. To add insult to injury, the increase in figures comes along with the news that live register figures have actually DROPPED by 1% elsewhere in the county, the first decrease in numbers in eight months. 15,401 individuals signed on across the county last month representing a 1% decrease, however bear in mind that the figure is DOUBLE what it was this time last year. There was a drop of 5.9% in people signing on in Listowel, a drop of 2% in Killarney along with smaller drops in Killorglin, Kenmare and Cahersiveen. Only in Dingle and Tralee are the numbers continuing to rise (in Tralee the number of those signing on in April rose by 1.4%, which means 6,265 are on the dole there).

Over 200 potential jobs lost in West Kerry due to Council planning refusals - Claim

The Labour Candidate in the upcoming Dingle Local Area Elections has spoken out about the number of jobs which could have been created this year in West Kerry, but will not come to pass due to refused planning applications. Pat Hanafin claims that 200 jobs could have been created on the Dingle Peninsula this year had Kerry County Council given the go-ahead to two local projects. "Due to lack of planning permission from Kerry Councy Council and Board Pleanála, over 200 potential jobs have been lost on the Dingle Peninsula" said Patrick. "A hotel in Ventry refused will result in a loss of €2 million to the area, plus 25 jobs. "The refusal for planning for a 65-bed nursing home in Ballinaboula has also resulted in a loss of €8 million to the area and 40 full-time jobs. Sixteen retirement homes had also been indicated in conjunction with this plan." Pat, who also has a long association with the IRDA (Irish Rural Dwellers Association) has also spoken out about the continued refusal for one-off houses applied for by local people who wish to build on their own land in their own native area."Up to 30 houses have been refused in the recent past in West Kerry. One new house equals at least five people being employed for a period of eight months" said Pat, who has also been involved with the plant-hire business for many years. "From the person who draws up the plans, the person who digs the site, the block layer, the plasterer, the plumber, the electrician, the painter, the carpenter, the gardener, to the outlets and shops that supply the materials to all of these people, the positive knock-on effect of this activity is crucial to the survival of the local economy." Pat hosted a meeting with Labour leader Eamonn Gilmore who travelled to Dingle last Friday in light of the number of recent job-losses in the area.

Swine Flu - How to stay healthy

What are the symptoms of swine influenza in people?
The symptoms are like those of regular seasonal flu and include: fever of sudden onset, cough, sore throat, runny nose, headache and muscle aches. Some people have vomiting and diarrhoea.
What should I do if I get sick?
If you get sick with a flu-like illness as described above, and have recently visited an affected area or have been in contact with a known case of swine flu, contact your GP/family doctor by telephone. They will decide if you need testing or treatment.
What can I do to stay healthy?
As with any infectious respiratory disease, the following precautionary measures are recommended to avoid getting or spreading the flu:
*Cover your nose and mouth with disposable tissues when sneezing, coughing, wiping and blowing your nose
*Dispose of used tissues in the nearest waste bin
*Wash your hands often with soap and water, and especially after coughing and sneezing. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
*Clean hard surfaces (e.g door handles) frequently using a normal cleaning product
*Try to avoid close contact with sick people
*If you are sick with flu, stay at home to avoid spreading infection to others and avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth
This information has been provided by the Health Service Executive's website, www.hse.ie

Swine Flu - The Facts

As fears of a global pandemic grow, it is important to be aware of the facts surrounding Swine Flu, the respiratory disease which has caused a number of deaths in Mexico. The HSE and the Department of Health and Children continue to closely monitor cases of Swine Influenza A/H1N1 and yesterday it was confirmed that a small number of people have come forward in Ireland with mild flu-like illness and a history of relevant travel. These cases are being examined however at the time of publication, no cases of this illness have been confirmed in Ireland. Swine, or Pig flu, is a respiratory disease, caused by Influenza Type A which had, up until now, not infected humans. The virus however has many variants which are constantly evolving and adapting. This outbreak of the virus contains genetic material that is typically found in strains of the virus that affect humans, birds and swine. It is believed that the virus can be spread from person to person, most likely through coughing and sneezing. There have been 103 deaths in Mexico, so far it has been confirmed 20 of these had the virus. There were also outbreaks in parts of the United States, Canada and Spain. The only treatment which currently exists are two anti-viral drugs, Tamiflu and Relenza. No vaccine against this form of flu has yet been developed.For further updates on the Irish and global situation visit www.hse.ie .

'Africa Awakes' in Dingle's Greenlane this Friday

Africa Awakes

A photographic exhibition by Manuel Scrima.

Greenlane Gallery Dingle, 1st - 16th May.

One of the most exciting exhibitions to hit Dingle in recent times, Africa Awakes, opens this Friday, May 1st, in the Greenlane Gallery. This stunning photographic exhibit by Manuel Scrima is presented in conjunction with NGO New World International, the Ministry of Health , NWI Kenya and the tribal communities of the Rift Valley, Kenya. This exhibit presents a unique opportunity to see another side of African life, aside from the poverty, starvation, disease, AIDS, corruption, dictatorship or civil wars that dominate our evening news. The objective of Africa Awakes is to enable people to experience the magic and culture of Africa . It brings together the power and sheer scale of Africa, combining the energy and fire of the ancient and the new. This exhibition portrays the profound distortions that exist today in Africa, illustrating the reality of life as seen through the eyes of the people, through their customs. It is raw and compelling, highlighting the challenges and contradictions facing Africa today as well as the confrontation between tradition and contemporary. A first preview of the exhibition was displayed in Tampere Hall in September 2008. After travelling to Salerno, Paris and Milan, a new updated exhibition travelled to the Cultural Centre Caisa, international cultural centre in the heart of Helsinki. The exhibition will move to many locations including Dublin, London, Bornemouth, Budapest and Nairobi.The exhibition was created to support acclaimed and essential programmes in Kenya. The aim of this exhibition is not only to raise funds to finance the work of ICROSS and NWI in Kenya but also to raise awareness of the plight of the peoples of Africa and the difficulties they face. The proceeds of the sale of these photographs will go to fighting suffering in Africa and donations may also be made at the exhibitions. For more information on the exhibit visit http://www.greenlanegallery.com/. This event is part of the Féile na Bealtaine line-up, for a complete run-down of events happening from day-to-day visit http://www.feilenabealtaine.ie/.

Feile na Bealtaine - April 29th-May 4th

A vivid exploration of the cultural senses Féile na Bealtaine

Dingle Peninsula

April 29th-May 4th

www.feilenabealtaine.ie
Festival Office Tel: 066 - 9151082

The Dingle Peninsula, has a rich cultural heritage. From April 29th-May 4th Féile na Bealtaine, the region's annual celebration of the arts, seeks to embrace this heritage through the mediums of art, literature, culture, custom, music, dance and the Irish language. 2009 marks the arts’ festival’s 15th anniversary and the key is to expect the unexpected at this unique and engaging festivals which unfolds against the stunning backdrop of the Dingle Peninsula. Street theatre, puppet shows, art exhibitions, film screenings, poetry readings plus a number of art and photographic exhibitions top the Féile menu along with a plethora of musical performances featuring acclaimed artists, propagating everything from the traditional to the exotic. Local, national and international drama societies will also feature throughout the Féile and a number of children's events including a special Children's Day will serve to invigorate young and enthusiastic minds. On Sunday May 3rd, the streets of Dingle will erupt in a musical melee with the annual Street Theatre Parade through Dingle town featuring the Dingle Fife & Drum, Cullen Pipe Band, Waterford Fife & Drum, Middleton Brass Band, Swiss Band, Samba Cuisle, Stilt Walkers, CoConuts, the Globe Academy of Dramatic Arts Street Performance and Big Bang Band – Children’s Percussion to mention just a few! An art trail, where local artists invite the public to step into their studios and engage in the creative process, will occur at a number of locations throughout the Peninsula. One of Féile na Bealtaine's key aims is to inspire new ideas; as a consequence the festival has always enjoyed a healthy mix of the arts and political debate with the political symposium also returning this year. A visual and visceral exploration of the cultural senses, Féile na Bealtaine broadens and extends artistic horizons, entertaining and enthralling the thousands that come together to experience this unique Corca Dhuibhne celebration year in, year out. The 15th annual Féile na Bealtaine takes place on the Dingle Peninsula this year from April 29th-May 4th. A full programme of events is available at the festival website: www.feilenabealtaine.ie. For further information contact the Féile na Bealtaine office at 066- 915 1082.

Two dolphins join Fungie in Dingle Harbour

Fungie's new friends!

Value for money is an extremely important consideration in these tough economic times and those travelling to Dingle to see Fungie the Dolphin in the coming weeks may get to avail of a very special 'three for one' deal as two other dolphins have joined the mischievous prankster in Dingle Harbour. Skippers conducting boat-tours to see Fungie last week noticed not one, but three fins as they approached the gentle giant's playground last Tuesday. While Fungie himself is anything but camera-shy, playing and frolicking with the boats and many visitors that go and swim with him everyday, the two new arrivals have been a little bit more elusive, hanging back while the man himself takes the spotlight. “Two adult dolphins appeared with Fungie last Tuesday and they have been hanging around with him since” explained Gillian Maye who co-ordinates tours from the boat-tour booking office on Dingle Pier.
“We didn't see them for another few days but then they turned up again at the weekend and seem to be settled here with Fungie for now. Dolphins come and stay with Fungie from time to time and these two new dolphins may be the same couple who also came into Dingle Harbour this time last year, however we're not 100% certain yet.”Despite the evident down-turn in West Kerry's economy, interest in Fungie remains strong with the Dingle Boatmen's Association welcoming many visitors over the Easter break. While many dolphins and whales visit different coastal ports in Ireland, Fungie is currently enjoying his 26th year in Dingle Harbour, something which is practically unprecedented for a bottle nose dolphin in the wild. Meanwhile he remains as curious and playful as ever captivating the countless visitors that come to see him, including many locals who travel out into the harbour themselves on a daily or weekly basis to visit their old pal. Fungie's new friends are stationed in Dingle Harbour for now, for more information on how to visit Fungie contact 066-9152626 or visit www.dingledolphin.com.

Domhnal and Bríd to exhibit at the Ionad this Summer

Resident Artists appointed in

Ionad an Bhlascaod
'Crot'

Domhnal Ó Bric & Bríd Ní Luasaigh

May 1st - June 31st
An interesting new arts scheme will be launched in Ionad an Bhlascaod in Dún Chaoin on Friday, 1st May, with the appointment of two artists, Domhnal Ó Bric (whose artwork is pictured to the right) & Bríd Ní Luasaigh (whose photographic work is featured to the left), as Resident Artists in the Centre for the coming summer season. The aim of the project is to give young artists an opportunity to display their works in their native area. Announcing the scheme Micheál de Mórdha, Director of The Blasket Centre, said that both the Centre and the Artists would benefit from the scheme. “We are very lucky here in West Kerry that we are surrounded by very talented artists, and it contributes a lot to the Centre to have some of the work on display. We also intend to encourage young artist and to provide them with the space to display their work in front of a large audience. We are grateful to Ealaín na Gaeltachta who provided funding for the scheme, funding which is very generous in the current financial climate.” The exhibition, entitled 'Crot' (Shape), will open on Friday, May 1st, and will last for three months. Bríd is a photographer whose work is a study of rocks and lichen growth, while Domhnal's work encompasses paintings and drawings based on the singing tradition of West Kerry. The exhibition will be officially launched by the renowned traditional singer Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh, on Friday, May Day, at 7.30pm. Further Information: Dáithí de Mórdha, Ionad an Bhlascaoid: (066) 9156444, 087-9778871, daithi.demordha@opw.ie.

480th Anniversary of signing of Treaty of Dingle

Treaty times back in Dingle

The commemoration of a signing of a significant piece of European legislature will be marked in Dingle this Friday as the Dingle Historical Society prepare to host a number of events celebrating 480th anniversary of the Treaty of Dingle, which was ratified in 1529. Pre-dating Ireland's entry into the EEC by 440 years, the Treaty of Dingle was a founding piece of Common European legislature, giving rise to a series of entente, alliances and subsequent treaties which formed the basis of a common European ideal, culminating in the formation of a European Union, where common laws and protocols are adhered to by member states. The Treaty of Dingle was signed between the 11th Earl of Desmond, James Fitzgerald and Don Gonzalo Fernandez, the Ambassador Plenipotentiary of the Holy Roman Emperor of the German Nation and King of Spain, Charles V & I. The terms of the treaty also gave rise to a major progression in human rights legislature as the Treaty of Dingle gave a formal legal and constitutional foundation to the rights of citizenship and other privileges that Irish exiles and emigrés enjoyed in Hapsburg Spain, Hapsburg Austria and Hapsburg Netherlands (present-day Belgium & Luxembourg), from the 16th to the early 20th centuries. An incredible 480 years after the signing of the Treaty, the occasion will be marked by the unveiling of a special commemorative plaque by the Spanish Ambassador to Ireland, H.E. Dona Mercedes Rico at Dingle's Temperance Hall. This will be followed by a special lecture on the Treaty of Dingle itself by Dr. Declan M. Downey, Lecturer in History, University College Dublin at local educational institute, An Díseart on Green Street. The event will begin with a parade by the Dingle Fife and Drum band from O'Flaherty's Pub on Bridge Street to the Temperance Hall on Goat's Street at 7.15pm. Following the unveiling by the Ambassador at 7.30pm, Dr. Downey, an authority on Ireland's relationship with the Hapsburg Empire, will deliver his lecture on the Dingle Treaty at An Díseart, Green Street, Dingle at 8.15pm. All are welcome to attend.Pictured, l-r, Bernie Goggin and Dr. Conor Brosnan at the new commemorative plaque at Dingle's temperance hall on Upper Main Street/Goat's Street.

Dingle based documentary nominated for Rose d'Or

'A Bit of a Filum' makes a bit of

a splash...

A documentary shot in Dingle last year about the making of the film Ryan's Daughter in the late 1960s and early 1970s has been shortlisted in the prestigious, Rose d'Or Film Festival, held in Lucerne, Switzerland.
The documentary made by RTE is entitled A Bit of a Filum and features a number of local faces from Dingle and West Kerry including former senator Tom Fitzgerald (High Road), Margaret Sheehy (Milltown) and TP Ó Conchúir (Baile na nGall). The title is derived from a remark made by the late Pat Baker (Goat's Street) who worked in the Wood Mill at the time of the making of the movie; remarking one day to his colleague Tom Fitzgerald that some people who had been purchasing wood were in the process of making 'a bit of a filum'!. The documentary was aired on Christmas Day 2008 to great acclaim. It was revealed last week that the film has been shortlisted in the Arts Category making it the only Irish entry at this year's Rose d'Or festival. Ryan's Daughter is David Lean's 1970 film which is set in 1916 and tells the story of an Irish girl who has an affair with a British officer during World War I, despite opposition from her nationalist neighbours. The film stars Robert Mitchum, Sarah Miles, (pictured above right) John Mills, Christopher Jones, Trevor Howard and Leo McKern, with a score by Maurice Jarre. It won two Oscars.

READ MORE ABOUT RYAN'S DAUGHTER http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ryan's_Daughter

RTE Raidio na Gaeltachta appoints new artist-in-residence

Do you listen to RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta?

RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta with the support of Ealaín na Gaeltachta have commissioned Ceara Conway (pictured far left) as their first Artist in Residence. As part of this commission she will be exploring the connection between the station and the people who listen in everyday. "I feel that the Gaeltacht culture and community is a unique one and that RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta both represents and connects the nationwide and international community in a very particular way" said Ceara. "I would like the opportunity to talk and meet with people who listen to the station, hear their thoughts and views on listening to RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta and of being a part of this this community. I am interested in showing you the work that I have made to date and discuss the ideas and observations that I have, seeing what arises by meeting the people/community who listen to this station." Ceara may be contacted by Phone or Text at 0876934038 or via Email: EIST.CEARA@GMAIL.COM.

89% rise in fishermen signing on in Dingle

Fears that the ice-plant in Dingle may be about to close were compounded this week by a claim that there has been an massive increase in fishermen forced to sign on since January of last year. The claim was made by Fine Gael Deputy and South Kerry TD, Rathmore's Tom Sheahan in the Oireachtas this week when he stated that there 89% more fishermen were signing on in the Dingle area, compared with January of 2007. In his speech, he also outlined the fact that only two boats now operate from Baile na nGall (Ballydavid) in comparison to five boats this time five years ago. Fishermen in Dingle staged a protest at Dingle Pier last year, claiming that the Irish Government had sold them out to Europe in terms of fishing rights, fishing-grounds and quotas. It is a strange situation when an island country surrounded by water with the vast Atlantic Ocean lapping at its western doorstep, has fishing communities who can no longer make a living from the sea. It is also strange when you consider the amount of foreign fishing vessels that dock in Dingle regularly. Fellow island nation Iceland, the first European country to go bust following the recession, has seen many of its bankers, office and municipal workers revert to fishing following the country's economic collapse.
What will Ireland do...

Dingle Ice-Plant under threat?

The prospect of a fishing port without an ice-plant may seem ridiculous but in recession-riddled Ireland its looking like a real possibility as local concern grows that Dingle's ice-plant is at risk of closing. Two plant workers have been informed that their contracts will not be renewed at the end of the month, adding to speculation that the Bórd Iascaigh Mara plant, which provides ice for boats fishing out of the port, will cease operations in Dingle. According to the CEO of the Irish Fish Producers Organisation, Lorcán Ó Cinnéide the idea of a fishing port without an ice-plant is 'ludicrous'. Ó Cinnéide has stated that he has written to Minister of State Tony Kileen saying that the possible closure of the plant is unacceptable.There has been so official statement from BIM as of yet clarifying the current, or indicating what may befall the Ice-Plant in the future. It will be interesting now to see how the Government respond in light of this crisis, given the detrimental state of the fishing industry in the region to begin with. In addition, it will also be important to see how the area's local election candidates (Breadán Fiitzgerald & Micheál O'Shea-FF, Seamus Cosaí Fitzgerald & Brendan Griffin-FG, Pat Hanafin-Labour & Teresa Rafferty-Sinn Féin) react to the current situation as unemployment figures soar in the West Kerry region.

Ballyferriter to host local art expo on Easter Sunday

Féile na Cásca 2009 - An Máimín - Baile an Fheirtéaraigh

Well known writer and musician, Maidhc Dainín Ó Sé, will open this year’s Féile na Cásca in An Máimín, Ballyferriter at 3pm on Easter Sunday. This year Gabriel Fitzmaurice, Maidhc Dainín, and Bríd Ni Mhóráin visited twelve primary schools in Corca Dhuibhne helping local children to create a link between literature and the visual arts by giving readings in the schools in an effort to spark their imaginations. Artists Andrew Duggan, Susan Ní Chearna, Áine Uí Dhúbhshláine and Lone Uí Raghallaigh then worked in the schools creating art works with teachers and pupils based on the writers’ readings. Along with the primary pupils’ work the exhibition will feature works from over fifty artists in a variety of styles and media. Doors open at 2pm on Easter Sunday (in Ballyferriter). All are welcome. The exhibit will run until the 19th.

Dingle Sailing Club host Easter Egg Hunt this Saturday

Dingle Sailing Club's Annual Easter Egg Hunt will take place this Holy Saturday, beginning at the Marina at 12 noon and culminating at 2pm. All are welcome to come along and take part. They will host their AGM afterwards at 4 pm in the Dingle Marina Centre. The agenda is as follows: Minutes of the 2008 AGM,Treasurer’s Report, Commodore’s Report, Membership Fees, Motions, Election of Officers & Any Other Business.It is important that all club members and at least one parent of junior members be present at the meeting. The outgoing members of the committee are: Commodore-Mark Greely, Vice-Commodore-Seán Ó Coileáin, Treasurer-John O’Connor, Secretary-Dermot Carroll. Other Members-Cáit Uí Choileáin,Aideen McConville, Chris Hayes and Páidí Ó Domhnaill. The Dingle Sailing Centre is ideally situated in a naturally sheltered harbour which offers safe and protected waters suitable for water-based activity. The vistas surrounding the harbour are spectacular, mountains, sea-cliffs, fishing boats, sea-birds and Fungi the Dolphin. The Centre is an ISA (Irish Sailing Association) recognised training centre and instructors are certified and experienced. Sailing courses run throughout the months of June, July and August, Monday to Friday, 10am - 4.30pm. ISA levels 1, 2, & 3. Other activities on offer include Splash Club for 6-9 year old, Kayak rental, Powerboat courses, Yachtmaster and School activity days. For more visit http://www.saildingle.com/.

RTÉ's Lyric FM launch new frequency on Dingle Peninsula

NEW RTÉ LYRIC FM FREQUENCY FOR NORTHERN DINGLE PENINSULA & NORTH KERRY

RTÉ Lyric FM fans in the Ballydavid area of the Dingle Peninsula will need to re tune their radios slightly from 98.7 FM to 98.8 FM. North Kerry fans of music and arts station will also need to re tune their radios slightly from 98.8 FM to 98.7FM. RTÉ lyric fm is making these minor frequency change to improve its signal in the South West. RTÉ Lyric FM, the national music and arts station which celebrates its 10th birthday this May Bank Holiday, is making this minor frequency change to improve its signal in the South West; for listeners this means a slight twist of the dial on FM radios for them to continue listening to favourite RTÉ lyric fm shows such as Lyric Breakfast with Trish Taylor, Lyric Lunchtime with Geri Maye, The JK Ensemble with John Kelly and Classic Drive with Niall Carroll on weekdays and at the weekends, Saturday Afternoon with Lorcan Murray, Sunday with Marty Whelan and Movies and Musicals with Aedín Gormley. RTÉ Lyric FM is Ireland’s music and arts station and plays classical, jazz and opera as well music from the stage and screen, world and traditional music. The station is based in Limerick and celebrates ten years on air this year. Visit RTÉ Lyric FM online at www.rte.ie/lyricfm.

Beehive Theatre Dingle unveil new drama

Beehive Theatre Company, Dingle present;

The Impostor

by Mike Venner

Mike Venner, playwright in residence, has yet again delivered an explosive piece of theatre. Against a background of betrayal; lust, love and loss meet under a canopy of madness dragging the characters towards a nemesis that threatens to unravel civilisation. The plot romps along with infectious good humour, imparting a sense the that underneath all the surreal frivolity lurks a scathing allegory of modern-day Balkan troubles that twists every character into an ideogram for vulgar humanity. A frenetic black comedy that will guarantee your evenings entertainment. Situated on the west coast of Ireland, Beehive Theatre Company is Europe's westernmost theatre. Over the last thirteen years, the company has established itself as a leading centre for theatre in West Kerry and the southwest region and has produced a well-balanced mix of established plays as well as new, innovative scripts drawing on the talents of local and international writers.Beehive is a community based theatre company providing professional training and production opportunities for individuals and groups in the region.

Beehive Theatre Company’s performance of Mike Venner’s ‘The Impostor’ will be opening on 17th April, for a limited run at The Studio, Cúilín, Dingle. Doors open at 7.30pm. Tickets €15.00 and €10.00 concessions. Contact 066-9152924 for more information or visit www.beehivetheatre.com

Siulóid Leigheas raises over 30,000 for cancer support

There was great cause for celebration in West Kerry on Monday, April 6th, as Siulóid Leigheas committee members (pictured left) presented Julie Harris of the Irish Cancer Society with a cheque for €30,175 at Ionad Poiblí Scoil Naomh Breandán in Baile an bhFionnurach.The funds were raised through the annual Siuloid Leigheas - Walk for the Cure which is held on Mount Brandon every September which last year saw thousands converge on the mountain in aid of cancer research. The 2008 walk was dedicated to the memory of local lady Bernie O'Connor. Plans are already underway for the 2009 walk, which will take place on Saturday September 27th 2009. The following appointments were also made for the 2009 committee at the first official meeting of the year; Broadcaster Micheal O Muircheartaigh -President, Jaeici O Muircheartaigh -Chairperson / PRO, Mairin Nic Gearailt -Secretary, Dara O Cinneide and Lisa Ni Mhurchu -Treasurers, Tom Hutch, Conchubhair O Beaglaoi and Muiris O Conchuir - Social Organisers along with Tomas Mac Gearailt and Sean O Mhuircheartaigh -Logistics. "We hope that the 2009 walk will be the biggest and best to date" explained Chairperson Jaeici O Muircheartaigh, who is off to Slovenia this May to part-take in another sponsored walk in aid of the Irish Cancer Society. There was another first on the night as the newly renovated Ionad Poibli Scoil Naomh Breandan was also in use for the first time. The new community centre, funded by Roinn na Gaeltachta, is located within the old Scoil Naomh Breandan school house which was founded in 1895 and closed in 1967. It is hoped that the centre will provide a valuable asset to the local community. Over 100,000 was spent on the renovation however the integrity of the school house's bespoke stone work was preserved and maintained. For more updates on the 2009 walk visit www.cancer.ie.

Dingle has the Last Word!

A Dingle man got the better of Ireland’s best known solicitors live on the national airwaves last Friday as Sraid Eoin's Sean Granville (25) (pictured left) took on, and defeated, celebrity solicitor Dr. Gerald Kean (50) (pictured far left) in a test of wits on the The Last Word of the Week News Quiz. As part of Matt Cooper’s The Last Word Show on Today FM, the idea behind the quiz is that a member of the public takes on an Irish celebrity in a quiz based on the weeks current events and news items. Dingle's Sean Granville applied for the quiz a few weeks ago, getting the call last Friday that he would be taking part in the quiz against one of Ireland’s top solicitors, Cork native, Dr. Gerald Kean. Kean's practice, Kean & Co represents the likes of Simon le Bon, Ronan Keating, George Michael, Jerry Lee Lewis and the late Johnny Cash; clients also include more than 40 Premiership League footballers. Kean enjoys a celebrity lifestyle and he and his partner Lisa Murphy (Michael Flatley’s ex-girlfriend) can be often seen gracing the society pages of many magazines and newspapers. However, the Corkman’s knowledge was no match for the Dingle man’s keen intellect; over three rounds of questions, Matt Cooper announced Sean was the winner with double scores, beating the solicitor 14 points to seven, the double scores securing a solid victory for Kerry over Cork. Sean was delighted with the outcome and friends and well-wishers all over the county have been getting in touch all week following his triumph on the airwaves. The quiz can be heard at: http://audio.todayfm.com/audio/20090403170010.mp3.

Birds and Beasts at Greenlane Gallery

Joint Exhibition of the works of Sculptress Fidelma Massey and Artist Liam Holden; Greenlane Gallery, Holy Ground, Dingle,
11 – 30th April 2009.
FIDELMA MASSEY - The Spring exhibition at the Greenlane Gallery finds renowned sculptress Fidelma Massey in ebullient form, working with new base materials which have allowed her to introduce the colour she has been craving for into her work. Animals and birds and variations thereof are the focus of her new collection, with the main piece, a bronze, titled ‘The Queen of Beasts’ ( the guardian of all the animals), who holds a tiny embryonic animal in her hands.
“I’ve decided to take a rest from trees” says Fidelma, “and the rookery outside my studio has been a great source of inspiration. It is very busy this time of year, so I thought they might need a little rest, so one of my new pieces is called ‘Rook Lullabye’! As well as being humourous and uplifting, using new and less expensive base materials has meant that some of Masseys new work is very affordable -good news for her avid group of collectors!
LIAM HOLDEN - Artist Liam Holden returns to Dingle, the area which first inspired him to paint, for an exhibition of his new work. Holden, who describes his style as ‘abstract expression’, visited Dingle in the early 80s at the invitation of local fisherman, Danny Sheehy, to spend the summer lobster fishing. This experience was to provide the trigger for the artist to paint, which up until that point had been missing in his life. Even today Holden’s work stems from those days fishing in a small boat around the islands and water in all its incarnations continues to be his main inspiration. His new paintings differ from earlier work in that the application of the paint has a much looser and wilder feel to it but the subject matter is always constant, each new canvas representing a different search to open doors to the imagination. Holden’s Show will comprise between 20 – 30 works, mainly oils with some drawings. It will also feature a lifesize Naomhog (or Curragh) which he is in the process of making with his old fishing partner, Danny Sheehy; a bridge between the past and the present. For more information visit http://www.greenlanegallery.com/.

The Wire comes to Dingle

Among the thousands that thronged the streets of Dingle in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade was actor Aidan Gillen, who many will know as Tommy Carcetti from HBO TV series The Wire. The Dublin-born actor took to the streets alongside Maurice Galwey, festival director of the annual Dingle Film Festival, (www.kerryiff.com). Aidan has clocked up some major performances on stage and screen during his career starring in The Wire, which has been syndicated around the world as well as movies such as Circle of Friends and Some Mother’s Son in which he starred as Gerard Quigley, alongside Oscar-winner Helen Mirren. He is also well-known for his role as Stuart Alan Jones in the ground-breaking British television series, Queer as Folk which earned him a BAFTA nomination. Kieran Murphy of Murphy’s Ice-Cream on Strand Street papped Aidan as he and Maurice soaked up the atmosphere during the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Check out www.flickr.com/photos/icecreamireland.

St. Patrick blesses Dingle with glorious sunshine

Dingle awoke to the beat of the drum and the lilt of the fife on St. Patrick's morning as the Dingle Fife & Drum band took to the streets at 6.15am as dawn broke across the Corca Dhuibhne Peninsula. At 6.3oam over 500 people attended a dawn Mass at St. Mary's Church with the band marching up the aisle, raising the rafters with traditional music.

Crowds began to flock to Dingle during the morning in anticipation of the annual St. Patrick's Day Parade which took to the streets at 12.45pm. The event was blessed with glorious sunshine as temperatures reached up to 18 cenigrade in what was the sunniest day of the year to date. Record numbers lined the streets to enjoy one of the largest parades in recent years. Banna Ceoil Lios Poil, the Dingle Fife and Drum Band and young musicians from Scoil an Ghleanna in Glens (pictured above left) were among those who brought the streets alive with traditional music. Local businesses created a number of humourous floats, included the staff at Benners Hotel on Main Street who created their own re-enactment of 'Father Ted', which received a great reception. St. Patrick's Day in Dingle also blessed local businesses with some much needed business as the town was packed with visitors who came in great numbers to witness the celebrations. The festivites in pubs and restuarants around town are sure to keep going into the night! Young and old enjoyed the great atmosphere, all in agreement that this was certainly one of the best St. Patrick's Day in Dingle yet!

Dingle gears up for St. Patrick's Day!

Unique traditions set Dingle apart on St. Patrick's Day
The Dingle Fife and Drum Band traditionally welcome St. Patrick's Day as they march around the town at 6am on Tuesday, March 17th. This time honoured tradition will also see them enter St. Mary's Church on Green Street, where Mass will be celebrated at 6.30am, where they will fill the church to the rafters with sound of the fife and drum. This is unique to Dingle, a practice long since lost in other parts of the country. If you want to witness the real St. Patrick's Day, this is the way to do it! This year the Dingle Business Chamber are looking forward to hosting another excellent St. Patrick's Day Parade in Dingle town (click on route plan above to enlarge image).While these smaller parade in rural parts cannot obviously match the pomp and ceremony of the larger cities, these more intimate affairs really enable participants and visitors alike to get into the real spirit of St. Patrick's Day by creating a sense of community on the day. In keeping with this, this year's parade in Dingle is devoted to efforts in the community, with many local groups and businesses working for many hours to create celebratory floats. There will also be a review stand placed outside Garvey's at the Holy Ground with live traditional music and Irish dancing. So the day will go as follows:

6am: Dingle Fife and Drum Band welcome St. Patrick's Day by taking to the streets.

6.30am: Special St. Patrick's Day Mass at St. Mary's Church on Green Street (with an appearance and performance by the Fife and Drum Band who will march through the Church).

12.45pm (aprox): Dingle's St. Patrick's Day Parade begins at the old Dingle Hospital.

The route is as follows: Parade leaves the old hospital, continuing down Green Street and Main Street. It will take a right onto the Mall and at the end take another right onto Bridge Street past O'Flaherty's Pub and the Garda Station. It will then continue on past the Review Stand outside Garvey's at the Holy Ground before continuing along Strand Street, past Paddy Bawn Brosnan's Pub. The parade then will head towards the head of the Pier, towards Dingle Marina where it will turn at the Car Park and come back along Strand Street, before taking a left up Green Street. At the top of Green Street it will again turn left up Goats Street where it will conclude, where it begun, at the hospital. The festivities will them continue on for the rest of the day with traditional Irish music, dancing and Dingle's unique brand of 'Craic' in pubs all over the town.

DOUBLE-CLICK ON IMAGE ABOVE TO ENLARGE, PRINT OR VIEW PARADE ROUTE

Dingle divas reveal their inner artists

The art of female expression
Sisters were doing it for themselves in Dingle last Sunday as female artists from the Dingle Art Group unveiled an exhibition of new works at the Monastery Hall on John Street in celebration of International Women's Day.
The budding artists, who have been attending art classes at the Dingle Art Group under the guidance of teacher and mentor Claire O’Halloran, presented a wonderful range of paintings and photographs of local landscapes, scenes and still lives, as well as some very attractive abstract pieces. "We really enjoy art" explained local artist Stella Doyle who contributed an atmospheric portrait entitled The Wooden Bridge, Bull Island to the exhibit. The DIngle Art Group get together every week, working in an informal atmosphere with the goal of developing their personal creativity. Men are also free to join the group; one local man attending the exhibit, John Moriarty, was keen to celebrate his wife Ann's artistic achievements. Ex-army officer John set up his own art gallery in recent times in what was once his father's butcher shop 'Patty Attys' on Green Street. According to John, women have always had a hand in the arts in Dingle. "Dingle may now have a lively cluster of galleries but it wasn’t always so," John explained, "the first to display artworks was Kathleen Griffin, who used put pictures in her shop window in Holy Ground." "Perhaps the first gallery proper was set up by Pat Moore in Green St, she used to display Maria Simmonds-Gooding’s work" he added. “At that time you could have bought one of her painting for £50 that’d be worth maybe €5,000 now.” This very special art exhibition, hosted by Meitheal Forbartha na Gaeltachta will run in the Monastery Hall until the end of the month. Pictured above left, Stella Doyle and John Moriarty at the new local art exhibit which is currently being showcased in the Monastery on John Street.

Major media seminar to take place in Dún Chaoin

Ealaín na Gaeltachta - Publicity Seminar for the Arts Sector

Ionad an Bhlascaoid, Dún Chaoin, Saturday April 25th (9am-1pm)

What is the best way to attract publicity for your Art event or Arts group? How do you go about organising an effective publicity campaign? The answers to these questions will be found in Ionad an Bhlascaoid, Dún Chaoin on Saturday 25th April as part of a Publicity Seminar, which is being organised by Ealaín na Gaeltachta. The speakers on the day will be Natasha Fennell (Stillwater Communications), Harry McGee (Irish Times) agus Tomás Hardiman (Parzival Productions). Ways to approach and network with journalists and the media, in order to ensure press coverage for your event, will be outlined. Also discussed will be the steps to be considered in putting together an attractive press package. Emphasis will also be placed on opportunities for audience development and ways to attract more participants to your event. Emphasis will be placed on the requirements of those arts groups and artists who will be participating in the seminar. There will be a feedback session at the end of the speeches. Participants will also get an opportunity to discuss their projects with the guest speakers, who will advise them on particular challenges facing them. “I am delighted to have such an expert panel of speakers who will be available to share their experiences with artists and groups that are working in the cultural sphere”, commented Eibhlín de Paor, Arts Facilitator, “there is wonderful work going on in the Gaeltacht and participants will have an opportunity to learn from one another.” All arts groups, cultural administrators or managers, along with individual artists would all benefit hugely from attending. A fee of €15 is applicable to individuals attending with €30 for groups. It is necessary to book your place in advance. Contact Eibhlín de Paor on (066) 9150100 or e.depaor@udaras.ie or visit www.ealain.ie.

Dingle de-stresses at stress clinic

Local hypnotherapist and nutritional therapist to host 'stress' workshops in Dingle

Given the pessimistic economic outlook facing the country at the moment, stress is very real and prevalent factor in many of our daily lives - something which two Dingle based therapists are keen to tackle with a series of unique stress work-shops. Nutritional therapist Irene Ní Fhlannúra and clinical hypnotherapist Julí Ní Mhaoileaoin, have come together to offer these workshops at their joint practice, Slí na Sláinte, on Dingle's John Street. "These workshops will be ideal for anyone who is suffering from stress or stress related conditions" said nutritional therapist Irene Ní Fhlannúra, "we will show people how to identify the stress in their lives, give them solutions to manage the stress and prevent the damage stress can cause." Irene can identify foods that cause stress and contribute to stress related illnesses - such as fatigue, digestive problems, blood pressure, hormone disorders and mood disorders with the aim of looking at foods that prevent and minimise its effect. Julí will then use her skills as a clinical hypnotherapist by imparting relaxation techniques which will also enable those participating to reduce stress in their own lives. "Using a combination of both nutritional therapy and relaxation techniques we are giving people comprehensive solutions to successful stress management" Julí added. The next Stress Workshop takes place on Wednesday, March 11th from 6pm-10pm. Irene and Julí also have also launched a private therapy room service which available for other practitioners or local groups to host meeting and workshops. Contact Irene at 086-1662562 or Julí at 086-1660035 for more information. Pictured, l-r, nutritional therapist Irene Ní Fhlannúra and clinical hypnotherapist Julí Ní Mhaoileaoin.

Hanafin confirmed as Labour candidate in Dingle local elections

Patrick Hanafin (50) a native of Beenbawn, Dingle will officially launch his candidacy in the Dingle local area elections this Sunday at 3pm in the Dingle Skellig Hotel, as a candidate for the Labour Party. Patrick, a second generation Emergency Medical Technician, was the President of the national Ambulance Association of Ireland with nearly a decade and is still involved as their PRO. He also runs a local plant hire business and has been associated with many local community initiatives over the years. Mr. Hanafin had been a Fianna Fail party member for over 33 years and was overlooked in their party selection process recently. Patrick Hanafin and his wife Debbie have three children; their family were recently bereaved with the passing of Patrick's father Tom, who was also an EMT with the local Ambulance services, which saw an outpouring of grief from the local community. Patrick told Dingle News this week that he felt the Fianna Fail party had changed and he was disappointed in recent times with, what he described as their 'lack of focus' on local and rural issues in Kerry. Following the decision to allow Breandan Fitzgerald run as the local Fianna Fail candidate, Patrick entered into discussions with local Labour Party officials. He will formally announce his Labour Party candidacy at a press conference in the Dingle Skellig Hotel this Sunday at 3pm. Rural planning issues, unemployment, tourism and road signage and agriculture, were some of the issues that Mr. Hanafin cited as "extremely important". "I will be sitting down in the coming weeks with local people to discuss issues which are of importance to them, I will fight tooth and nail to protect the people and interests of Dingle and West Kerry" he added. He joins sitting councillors Micheal O'Shea (Fianna Fáil) Seamus Cosaí Fitzgerald (Fine Gael) and new candidates Breandán Fitzgerald (Fianna Fáil), Brendan Griffin (Fine Gael), Bridget O'Connor (Independent) and a Sinn Féin candidate as they battle it out for three seats in the Dingle Local Council Elections this June. The Dingle News will be following this in the coming weeks and months and watch out for interviews comparing the candidates policies and plans for the future regarding key issues. Pictured above left, Kerry members of the Association of Ambulance Personnel attending their annual conference at the Dingle Skellig Hotel, l-r, James Lynch, Seán Griffin, Patrick Hanafin, Joseph Lynch (Dingle Paramedic) and John Kelliher.

Volunteers needed for Inch Beach Clean-Up

6th Annual Inch Beach Clean-Up
Saturday, February 28th , 12pm-3pm
The annual Inch Beach Clean Up will take place this Saturday,February 28th, beginning at 12 noon and finishing at 3pm. (Weather-permitting) Over the years, the annual clean up has proven an enormous success,with huge heaps of rubbish being collected by volunteers. This year, as always, Kerry County Council will remove the rubbish heap as soon as it is collected. Local support would be very much appreciated and volunteers are urgently needed to get Inch ship-shape and protect its birds, wildlife and natural beauty. Contact organiser Brendan Griffin (pictured above right) on 087-652 8841 for more information. Gloves and bags will be provided at the entrance to the beach on the day.

Sudden passing of beloved local GP

Farewell Dr. Finbarr...
A sense of shock emanated through Dingle and West Kerry on Wednesday, February 18th as it emerged that prominent local figure and beloved General Practitioner, Dr. Finbarr O'Shea of Upper Main Street, Dingle had passed away.
Dr. O'Shea had been a GP in Dingle for over 30 years, caring for patients at his own surgery in Upper Main Street and then in more recent times with his colleagues at Dingle's Medical Centre on the Mall. Dr. O'Shea worked in close concert with his devoted wife Dr. Margo O'Shea who is also a GP.
Dr. O'Shea made a profound impact on the lives of many during his lifetime; the kindness and effort he exerted on his patients' behalf was always exemplary.
His efforts no doubt saved the lives of many, both in his practice and in his work on call with the Dingle's emergency services. Dr. O'Shea was an active and prominent figure in the local community; as one of the founding members of the Dingle Sailing Club he helped establish one of the best sailing clubs in the country which now boasts one of Ireland's most beautiful Marinas.
He was an active member with the Dingle Historical Society who strived to both promote and preserve Corca Dhuibhne's unique history, culture and heritage.
Dr. O'Shea was also closely involved with the development of West Kerry's first Rugby team, Cumann Rugbai Corca Dhuibhne and over the years lent his time and effort to many local initiatives. He was also recognised as an important figure in local politics as a loyal member of the Fianna Fáil party.
Above all, Dr. O'Shea, or Finbarr as he was also known, was loved and respected for his kindness, joviality and generosity of spirit. His keen intellect, wit and engaging personality endeared him to many and his loss has caused a great deal of heartache and grief for those who knew and loved him.
Dr. Finbarr O'Shea will always be remembered, not only as a talented physician, but as one of Dingle's most beloved and respected characters. He was always regarded as part of the lifeblood of Corca Dhuibhne and the sense of grief and sadness currently emanating through the local area is immeasurable.
There is no doubt that Dr. Finbarr's legacy will live on in the hearts and minds of those who had the privilege of knowing him, Dr. Finbarr O'Shea is survived by his devoted wife Dr. Margo O'Shea, his sons Tomas, Steven and Colm, his family and friends in Corca Dhuibhne and beyond.

Dr. O'Shea was interned at St. Brendan's Cemetery, Milltown-Dingle on Saturday morning, February 21st, following Requiem Mass at St,. Mary's Church, Dingle.

Ní bheidh a leitheidí ann arís.

Nuclear incidents in Atlantic

• Russian War-Ships leaking oil 50 miles off coast
• British and French Nuclear Submarines collide in Atlantic

Living on the Dingle Peninsula, the Atlantic Ocean is an all encompassing force in our lives and is, quite literally, all around us. No matter where you are in Corca Dhuibhne, the sea is never too far away. However lately it seems that the South-West Coast has become something of a war zone. Do any of us look out to sea and expect a Russian warship to be lurking nearby? Or perhaps a British nuclear sub with 40 nuclear weapons on board? Or indeed a French submarine colliding underwater with an "object" their defense ministry refuses to identify? This isn't the plot of some Tom Clancy novel, no, this is what is happening on our doorstep as we speak.Up to 300 tonnes of oil was spilled into the Atlantic 50 miles off the South West coast on Saturday as two Russian War-Ships were refuelling. The Irish Coast Guard are in contact with the Russian authorities and are monitoring the spill after being alerted to the incident through a satellite surveillance program run by the European Maritime Safety Agency.How about that. Now, how about this...It has also been confirmed that British and French nuclear submarines collided in the Atlantic Ocean earlier this month. Britain's HMS Vanguard and France's Le Triomphant (pictured above left) were both damaged in the crash in the early hours of February 4th, but there were no reports of damage to the nuclear parts.
France's defence ministry said that on the 6th of February Le Triomphant, a ballistic nuclear submarine, was damaged when it hit an object under water. It did not identify the object.
The British sub has now been towed to the Faslane base in western Scotland for repair.The two submarines are equipped with sonar to detect other vessels. Both vessels, between them carrying about 250 sailors, were reportedly submerged and on separate missions when they crashed.
Britain's ministry of defence refuses to comment on submarine operations but a spokesman said: 'The UK's deterrent capability has remained unaffected at all times and there has been no compromise to nuclear safety.'
Le Triomphant, one of France's four nuclear-armed submarines, hit the object, said at the time to be probably a container, while submerging, and immediately returned to base at Ile-Longue, near Brest in northwest France.
Each vessel is 150 metres long and 13 metres in diameter, and can carry up to 48 nuclear warheads on a maximum of 16 missiles.France and Britain are two of the world's five declared nuclear powers, along with the US, China and Russia.

Hillgrove launch new late night bar

Dingle has always been among the top destinations in the country when it comes to pubbing and clubbing and now the Hillgrove, Dingle's only nightclub which has been often cited as one of the top clubs in the county is preparing to launch its new late night bar.

What does this mean? Well for one it means on Friday and Saturday nights the cover charge will be scrapped for those hoping to head over for a few drinks. An indoor smoking area, a pool table along with music and a DJ are some of the things revellers can expect to find as well as a courtesy bus running from the Mall Bridge to the club.

With the recession and late opening hours until 2am in in operation by An Droichead Beag, the Hillgrove will now be able to offer punters a real choice when it comes to late night drinking and clubbing. The Hillgrove Nightclub has been providing West Kerry's only clubbing experience for three decades. Split over two floors and having recently undergone a one million euro refurbishment, it now features state of the art lighting and sound systems, three bars and the largest dance floor in Kerry.

"A lot of people have been staying late in the Droichead recently, however the Hillgrove is an important aspect to Dingle, without a nightclub the town would suffer greatly" one reveller recently commented to The Dingle News."We're all really looking forward to this!"

More information is available at www.hillgrovedingle.com.

West Kerry family publish book in honour of her late son

Celebrating the life of the late Páidí Gruiméal (16) and his triumph over Cystic Fibrosis
'Lig dom a Mham' (let me go Mom), were the last words whispered by 16-year old Páidí Gruiméal to his devoted mother Geraldine (pictured left) as he slipped away into unconsciousness for the last time on February 7th 2007 after waging a courageous battle with Cystic Fibrosis. The loss of this vivacious young character from Carraig in Ballydavid was devastating for his mother Geraldine, father Pádraig, sisters Rachel and Ciara and his many friends. However within the dark confines of their immeasurable grief they have rallied together to release a book celebrating Páidí's life and the profound impact he made on those around him in the short, but meaningful time he spent on this Earth. The book, entitled Lig Dom, is the result of the combined efforts of his mother Geraldine and her cousin Peig Baker, who have penned the bilingual book in an effort to raise funds for Kerry General Hospital, Crumlin Hospital and Tallaght Hospital where Páidí was treated for the illness which eventually robbed him of his life. "He made the best of every minute of his life" explained Páidí mother Geraldine, "he went everywhere and did everything, even though, at times, he was very ill."
"We loved him so much and life is so different without him but we decided to come together and celebrate his life with this book, which will also help others battling cystic fibrosis."

Written in Páidí's native Irish and also in English, Lig dom offers an insight into the life of a desperately ill young man and his subsequent triumph over a life-threatening illness by living life to the full and making every second count.

THE BOOK LIG DOM IS NOW ON SALE IN O'FLAHERTY'S LONDIS IN BAILE AN MHUILINN, DINGLE (+353 (0) 66 9150628) AND IN OTHER LOCAL OUTLETS. IT COSTS 15 EURO AND ALL PROCEEDS WILL BE DONATED TO CYSTIC FIBROSIS CARE IN KERRY GENERAL, CRUMLIN AND TALLAGHT HOSPITAL. ANYONE WHO WISHES TO ORDER THE BOOK MAY DO SO BY CONTACTING RACHEL GROMMEL AT rachelgrommel@hotmail.com.

Dingle's first Live Mike at Blue Zone on Green Street

Think your stand-up is hilarious? Think your acting and stage performance abilities are second to none? Are you a budding poet bursting with material that you feel deserves an audience? Want to dazzle the world with your vocal abilities? Well now's your chance as the Blue Zone (above the Dingle Record Shop) on Green Street is now hosting an Live Mike every Thursday night with Mike Smurfwaite as resident MC. All are invited to participate!

Súil Aitiúl le Rachel Ní Fhionnáin

LITRÍOCHT!

Anuraidh, bhuaidh Oisín Ó hEartáin (sa phictiúir ar dheis) duais liteartha an Oireachtais dá saothair dar teideal Ionsaí, a chríochnaigh sé i dteannta a sheanathair le dearcadh difriúil suimiúil ag an ndá ghlúin. Dé Céadaoin, an 18 Feabhra, ar an mBuiltín, beidh Ó hÉartáin atá trí bliana déag, chun a leabhar a sheoladh. Is é Dónal Bric a bhí i mbun na léaráidí agus is é Coiscéim a thapaidh an deis chun an leabhar a chur i gcló.

DRÁMA!

Cuirfear dráma ar stáitse ar son na carthanachta ‘MS’, i sáipéal Naomh Séamus sa Daingean ar an Aoine bheag seo. Glaonn an grúpa na ITT Players orthu féin, léachtóirí iltréitheacha ón Institúid i dTrá Lí atá ar chamchuairt timpeall Chiarraí i láthair na huaire.Is drama domhain é ‘Doll’s House’ le Ibsen bunaithe ar bheirt shaibhir; Torvald agus Nóra atá pósta ach an bhfuil siad ar a shuaimhneas? An bhfuil an saol chomh álainn ‘is a fhéachann sé do na lánúin óga álaine? De réir a chéile faigheann an lucht féachanna léargas níos soiléire faoina saol. Is annamh a bhíonn an saghas dráma seo sa Daingean mar sin beidh sé suimiúil an dráma a fheiscint sa sáipéal, an amharclann ildánach a sholáthraíonn gach saghas cur i láthair i gcroílár an bhaile.Beidh ticéadaí ar fáil ag an ndoras agus cuirfear tús leis ar an 20 Dé hAoine ach taispeántas amháin a bheidh i gceist.

BIA!

Is dúslán é beile trí chúrsa álainn folláin a ullmhú, go háirithe do bheirt le buiséad faoi euro is fiche. D’éirigh le cailín ó Chorca Dhuibhne áit a fháil sa chraobh Náisiúnta, comórtas cócaireachta do dhéagóirí. Is ionadaí í Liadáin Nic an tSíthigh don chumann rothlach sa Daingean. Roghnaíodh í chun dul chomh fada leis an bpríomhchathair ar an 28 Feabhra nuair a bheidh ceathrar eile ina tenanta ag iarriadh na moltóirí a shásamh.

Ceol i gCorca Dhuibhne

Mo Cheol Thú!
le Rachel Ní Fhionnáin
Seo mí l’Amour le lá Fhéile Vailintín ag teannadh linn, ach roimhe sin agus ina dhiaidh cuirfear ceolchoirmeacha agus imeachtaí ar siúl sa cheantar a bheidh mar chéiliúradh don amour a bhíonn againn sa cheol, daoine ar nós John Spillane, Jim Murray, Séamus Begley, Amhránaithe óga an cheantair agus Mick Flannery. Bhuaidh John Spillane Top Solo Performer in Concert- 2009 san Irish Music Awards agus ainmníodh é do Ghradam Meteor i mbliana agus beidh deis freastal ar a cheolchoirm anseo. Muna bhfuil albam dó: The Gaelic Hit Factory, le Louis De Paor ina theannta, cloiste agat cheana, dean iarracht éisteacht leis. Ritheann focail an fhile De Paor agus ceol Spillane le chéile agus is albam iontach réchúiseach, úr é. Tá an dlúthcheirnín Irish Songs we learned at school díreach eisithe agus má’s rud é gur fhoghlaimís na hamhráin scoile ar nós Poc ar Buille, Báidín Fheilmí, Trasna na dTonnta, rithfidh smaointí scoile ar ais chugat gan mhoill. Dóibh siúd gur spéis leo an Corcaíoch a fheiscint beo, beidh an t-ádh leat ar an 6 Feabhra. Beidh Spillane ag seinmt i dtigh tábhairne Mhac Cárthaigh ar a naoi a chlog. Toisc go bhfuilimíd lotaithe ó thaobh an cheoil anseo timpeall, dhá oíche ina dhiaidh sin, beidh seoladh dlúthcheirnín nua Séamus Begley agus Jim Murray in Ard an Bhóthair i gCeann Trá , an 8 Feabhra, ar a 5.30pm. Éirí go Lá dar teideal an t-albam nua agus tá suíomh nua gur fiú féachaint air… http://www.seamusbegleyandjimmurray.ie/. Beidh Raidió Na Gaeltachta ag taifeadadh agus gealltar an-lá Dé Domhnaigh. Beidh daoine ag teacht ó chian ‘is ó chóngair, mar sin téir go dti Ceann Trá chun ceol den scoth a chlos ó cheoltóirí traidisiúnta is fearr sa tír. Beidh an ceoldráma Mamma Mia, á léiriú ag idirbhliain Chorca Dhuibhne ar stáitse sara fada i Halla na Feothanaí ar a 8pm ar an 10, 11 agus 12 Feabhra. Faoi láthair tá an cleachtadh faoi lánseoil, na daltaí ag amhrán ó mhaidin go tráthnóna le haistriúcháin na n-amhrán ABBA curtha i gcrích: Airgead Airgead Airgead, Waterloo, Bean Rí an Rince, Gimme Gimme Gimme! Deir na daltaí go mbeidh an léiriú i bhfad níos fearr ná an scannán Hollywood (faoi stiúir ag Phyllida Lloyd)… Gan amhras, beidh, mar sin, go dtí Halla na Feothanaí sibh! Bhí Mick Flannery linn sa Daingean i sáipéal Naomh Séamus in Other Voices roimis na Nollag agus tá sé ag filleadh anseo arís i dtigh tábhairne Mhac Cárthaigh ar an 27 Feabhra ar a 9pm. Bhí Flannery gnóthach i mbliana ar chamchuairt timpeall na tíre leis an amhránaí álainn Lisa Hannigan, é mar thacaíocht di le hamhráin óna albam domhain, macánta White Lies. Seineann an bheirt Christmas past le chéile, beirt cheoltóirí uamhala agus cúthaileacha lán le talann. N’fheadair an dtiocfaidh Ms Hannigan ar chuairt ach go deimhin, beidh Mick sa Daingean lena bhanna ceoil agus is fiú na ticéidí a chur in áirithint…anois! http://www.maccarthyspub.com/.

Dingle covered in Snow for the first time in years

FUNGI FUAR!

The people of Dingle were astonished to see the town covered in a blanket of snow yesterday morning. It seems even Fungi had a mouthful! The town, with its largely temperate climate, has not seen snow like this in decades and for many children and teenagers, it was their first time seeing a real snow fall in their home-town.

Late last Monday night, snow flakes began to fall, much to the amusement of locals who, irregardless of age, gazed out their windows like children in awe of the white blanket which was fast covering the town. On Tuesday, it seemed to thaw however by nightfall heavy snow began to fall once again. An army of snowmen and snow fights are believed to have broken out across the town! On a more serious note, Kerry County Council is warning motorists to continue avoiding the Connor Pass.Snow has turned to slush on the road but will freeze when temperatures drop at night.

The three day outlook issued by Met Éireann for Kerry is as follows;

WEDNESDAY NIGHT: Another very cold night, with a mix of clear spells and scattered wintry showers of rain, hail, sleet and snow; mainly affecting the northern half of the country. A sharp frost will also develop, along with some icy stretches on untreated roads. However strengthening northerly winds should see ice and frost clear most places before morning. THURSDAY AND FRIDAY will bring good sunny spells, as winds become northerly. However there'll be still be some scattered wintry showers about, but plenty of prolonged dry periods too. Breezy, with fresh northerly winds, making it feel significantly colder on account of the wind chill effect.

SATURDAY will be extremely cold to start with frost lingering into the afternoon across sheltered areas. However it will be largely if not completely dry, with good sunshine, and just light northerly breezes.

Cumann Rugbaí Corca Dhuibhne Squad 2009

Cumann Rubgaí Chorca Dhuibhne who beat Dunmanaway RFC in the first round of the Mick Barry Cup J2 League in Baile Loisce in West Kerry on Sunday, January 25th. Corca Dhuibhne beat the visiting Cork team 27-12 with trys from Sean Collins, Johnny Curran, Micheal MacGearailt and Eoin Firtear along with two conversions and a penalty from Captain Johnny Curran. Pictured back row, l-r, Justin McCarthy, Kevin Moriarty, Eoin Connor, Seán Páidí Ó Gruiméal, Connor Reen, Eoin Firteár, Conall Ó Ciobháin, Gary O'Connor, Travis Slattery, Bernard Galvin, Aódh Ó Tuama, Alan Moriarty and Adam Daly.Pictured front, l-r, Mícheál MacGearailt, Colm O'Shea, Cathal Misteál, Johnny Curran (Captain), Mícheál Houlihan, Chris Ferriter, Seán Collins and Paddy Fenton. Missing from the picture are Peyo Slattery, Daragh O'Shea and Eanna Flaherty.