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.

New collaborative effort from Dún Chaoin singer making headlines

West Kerry and Scotland's 'Dual' purpose!

One of West Kerry's brightest talents is currently making headlines on the world music scene with the release of a new album which sees West Kerry and Scotland's shared Gaelic heritages unite through music and song. Singer and musician Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh (30) (pictured on the right) from Dún Chaoin, has recently released her new album Dual, a collaboration with multi-award winning Scottish folk singer Julie Fowlis (pictured far left). Far from indicating rivalry of any sort, the word 'Dual' as Gaeilge and in Scots Gaelic means to twine, braid or interlace; it can also mean, 'one's inheritance.'This is a fitting title as Muireann and Julie's album unites Scottish and Irish traditions in an engaging exploration of the musical and linguistic cultures of the two countries."There had been Scottish coastguards stationed in West Kerry because they were Gaelic speaking, and so they brought their Scottish marches with them, which Kerry people changed into polkas. All kinds of connections cropped up once we began to delve into them for Dual," Muireann explained. Muireann and Julie have a lot in common - both singers and multi-instrumentalists, they grew up in Gaelic-speaking island communities, Muireann on Inis Oirr and Dún Chaoin in West Kerry and Julie on the island of Uist in the Outer Hebrides. All the songs on the album are in Gaelic, and include An Eala Bhan, a love song from North Uist, and the stirring Pé in Eirinn Í, from Kerry, which allow Muireann and Julie to display their powerful ballad singing. The album has already been critically acclaimed, drawing rave reviews from a variety of high profile publications across the UK and Ireland. The multi-award winning singer and musician has toured the world extensively with her group Danú and as a solo artist and her last solo album Daybreak: Fáinne an Lae received great acclaim when it was released in 2006. Muireann is also a TV Presenter with TG4 and teaches part of the University of Limerick's Traditional Music Programme, where she herself completed her MA. Muireann is the daughter of Feargal Mac Amhlaoibh, a well known West Kerry Irish language activist and musician and Áine Moynihan, the director of West Kerry Irish language theatre Lab na Mainstreach. The former Meánscoil na Toirbhirte student has one younger brother named Malachai and is married to Billy Mag Fhlionn. More information is available at www.muireann.ie.

Tommy Tiernan announces Dingle gig

Controversial comic sets Dingle date

Tommy Tiernan to perform at Malawi charity ball in Dingle this March

Internationally acclaimed comedian Tommy Tiernan is Dingle bound again this Spring as he returns to West Kerry on March 7th in an effort to raise funds for a medical clinic in Malawi. Tiernan is set to entertain the guests attending the Annual Charity Fundraising Ball hosted in the Dingle Skellig Hotel in aid of the Billy Riordan Memorial Trust, which was founded by local woman Mags Riordan (pictured above far left). Mags founded the trust following the untimely death of her son Billy at the age of 25 in Cape Maclear, Malawi in 1999.His death was the third family tragedy Mags and her family endured; while she was pregnant with Billy she lost her first child, a four month old baby girl, when the family car plunged off Dingle pier. Another infant death occurred within two years when a second son, Luke, was a victim of sudden cot death.Mags had rebuilt her family life in Dingle with her two daughters Emma and Jennifer when Billy died. She travelled to Malawi to erect a memorial in Billy's honour but was struck by the desolate poverty in the area and the warmth of its people. She decided to commemorate her son's life by establishing an aid programme in his name.Through the Billy Riordan Memorial Trust, more than € 100,000 was raised to build a health clinic which opened in August 2004. Providing medical care for a local population of 14,000, "the Billy Clinic" has treated thousands.It has also provided a primary health care clinic include a feeding programme to tackle severe malnutrition among children under the age of five, an emergency feeding programme for primary school children, a vegetable growing scheme to expand the health properties of the local diet and a treatment centre for those with AIDS/HIV. Tommy Tiernan, who encountered Mags at an awards ceremony in Dublin, offered to come on board to help raise funds and performed at last years charity event in Dingle, which sold out almost immediately.

Tickets for this year's ball are now available at the Old Forge Internet Café in Dingle, contact 087-1214151 for more information.

Court hearing held for €850,000 Dingle drugs seizure

Two people have been sentenced following a drugs seizure of €850,000 (72 kilos) worth of cannabis in Dingle last July.
Spanish national Ignacio Goyeneche and Lisa Basire, with an address in Ballyhea near Dingle pleaded guilty to ‘possession for sale or supply’ at the hearing in Tralee District Court last Monday - Judge Carroll Moran sentencing Goyeneche to seven years in prison and Basire to three years.
Following an anonymous tip-off, the cannabis was discovered in early morning raids in several locations around Dingle last summer and it has emerged that the drugs were smuggled into the town by a Spanish crime gang using an Irish trawler. The drugs travelled aboard the trawler from Northern Spain to Bantry in Cork to Dingle.
According to Goyeneche’s testimony,the majority, 65 kilos worth €785,000, was stashed in hidden compartments under a bed in the home of Lisa Basire in Ballyhea. The rest, 50 bales worth €76,000, was hidden behind panels in the boot of Goyeneche’s Volvo car.

Dingle connection to Bride Wars blockbuster

Dingle has always had stars in its eyes so to speak when it comes to Hollywood; as the location of David Lean’s Ryan Daughter screen legends such as Robert Mitchum made the area their home during filming.
Tom Cruise and Nicole Kidman also lived locally while filming Far and Away while the likes of Julia Roberts escaped the world media when she broke off her engagement to Kierfer Sutherland by fleeing to Greenmount House overlooking the town. Cillian Murphy owns a house locally while Gabriel Byrne was the special guest at this years Dingle Film Festival.
Over the years, Hollywood has always made its way to Dingle, but this time, Dingle is making its way to Hollywood as one of our own recently secured a part in a major Hollywood movie.
Bride Wars opened in cinemas this week; the romantic comedy tells the story of best friends Emma (played by Anne Hathaway) and Liv (played by Kate Hudson) who become rivals after their weddings are scheduled in the same venue on the same day.
Shannon Ferber (10), (pictured, above, on the far right) who plays the role of the young Anne Hathaway (pictured above left) in the movie, happens to be the daughter of Blaithín Ferber (nee Sheehy), a native of Lady's Cross, Milltown, Dingle who moved to the states some years back. Blaithín's parents are Tommy and Ursula Sheehy, who now live in Tralee, while her Uncle Celsius Sheehy and his wife Margaret still live in Milltown-Dingle with their families. Shannon's aunt Gráinne, sister of Blaithín is married to RTE news correspondent Paschal Sheehy.
It’s a double connection as Shannon has the Corca Dhuibhne ties on her Dad’s side too; her father Michael Ferber hails from New York but his mother is Mary O'Dowd of Baile an Lochaigh in West Kerry, a sister of Bridie Fitzgerald, the wife of ex-FF senator Tom Fitzgerald.
After starring modelling and starring in many TV and print adverts (including campaigns for Macy’s and Bloomingdales), Shannon was handpicked for the role by Anne Hathaway herself.
Shannon attended the star-studded New York premiere of Bride Wars on January 5th, walking the red carpet with her parents Blaithín and Michael, brother Dillon (3) (who also has a small part in Bride Wars (his likeness appearing in a family album at the beginning of the movie) and brother, Brendan (6).

"Shannon and the family love coming home to Dingle every summer and we are so looking forward to seeing them this year – we are so proud of all of them” said Shannon’s Grandmother Ursula Sheehy.
Bride Wars is currently on general release in cinemas all over Ireland for listings check http://www.omniplex.ie/

Captions: Zoe O'Grady and Shannon Ferber at the premiere of Bride Wars in NYC on January 5th. Zoe plays a young Kate Hudson in the movie while Shannon plays a young Anne Hathaway (pictured at the premiere above right).Shannon's family hail from Dingle while Zoe also has Irish connections; her father is from Mount Merrion in Dublin.

Live register up 57% in Dingle

A sign of our times

Dole queues in Dingle are set to get longer as the recession hits West Kerry hard.
New figures released by the Central Statistics Offices reveal a large increase in those signing on the live register - more than 57% more people are signing on in Dingle this year with 609 on the live register in December 2008.
Overall, 12,364 signed onto Kerry’s live register this December alone representing the the sixth highest rate in the country; more than a 40% increase on the 2007 figure. The trend shows no sign of abating with new job losses and lay-offs being announced everyday - a large supermarket in Dingle town is said to have laid off seven of its staff this week alone.

HSE to investigate death of woman following childbirth

The Health Service Executive is investigating the death of a mother who died after giving birth at Kerry General Hospital (pictured left) last Sunday.
Triona Cuddy (34) of Cois Cnoic, Dingle died immediately after the birth of her baby boy last Sunday morning. Her newborn son remains in a serious condition at the hospital.
A full investigation of the circumstances surrounding the woman's death has been ordered by the Health Service Executive.
Ms. Cuddy, who originally hailed from PortLaoise, worked in Garvey’s SuperValu in Dingle and her passing has deeply upset friends and co-workers. Her partner also works as a barman in the town.
It is understood that a post mortem examination took place on Monday and that a review of maternity services is be undertaken at the hospital. In a statement released by the HSE the family of the deceased have asked the media to respect their privacy to allow them mourn their loss. In respecting their wishes, the HSE has agreed to make no further comment.

Dáithí Ó Sé: West Kerry's answer to Simon Cowell?

West Kerry is to have an exerting influence on one of the biggest TV shows to hit Irish screens in recent times as Corca Dhuibhne native Dáithí Ó Sé takes on the task as judge on Ireland's largest nationwide talent contest, RTÉ's All Ireland Talent Show, screened on Sunday evenings at 6.30pm on RTÉ One. Over 500,000 viewers tuned in to see the first episode of Ireland's answer to the X-Factor which saw Boyzone's Shane Ward select five acts to represent the Dublin region. West Kerry native Dáithí will become the Gaeltacht's answer to Simon Cowell as he selects five acts to present the Connacht region.

The Dingle News spoke to Dáithí this week about the responsibility of becoming a TV judge.

"I suppose it was difficult at first to be the judge representing the West of Ireland, as a Kerryman you always have a loyalty to your home" said Dáithí, referring to the fact that Fáilte Towers winner RTÉ John Creedon will be judging the Munster acts, appropriately assisted by South Kerry Councillor Michael Healy-Rae.

"I have lived and worked in Galway for the last eight years now so you have to put the parish aside and do the best for the acts you are representing- I suppose I'm like Páidí Ó Sé when he went off to manage Westmeath!" said Dáithí. "While we can't give away too much there are some very contemporary acts as well a lot of traditional stuff and some excellent family entertainment." In the coming weeks fellow judges John Creedon (the South), Bláthnaid Ní Chofaigh (the East) and Dana (the North) will select five acts from the different regions. "It'll be a 50-50 between the public vote and the judges decision as to who goes through from the different regions, its one of the most exciting shows in recent times and I'm delighted to be involved" Dáithí added. Presented by Gráinne Seoige, the series will showcase talents from all over the country with the winner receiving an amazing prize of €50,000. Catch the All-Ireland Talent Show on Sunday's at 6.30pm on RTÉ One. For more information and video clips visit;

http://www.rte.ie/tv/talentshow/avlong.html?2469614,null,243

Annascaul parents brave freezing tempertures in all-night queues at Tralee school

Out in the cold....

Parents from the Annascaul area joined parents in Tralee last night (Friday January 9th) as they queued in freezing temperatures in order to secure places for their children at the school in the next school year at the Presentation Secondary School Tralee. A similar scenario ensued last week as parents queued for five nights to secure places for their children at another Tralee school, Mercy Mounthawk Secondary School.

However significantly, many of the parents from the Annascaul area who are queuing tonight in freezing temperatures are doing so over the debacle at Pobalscoil Chorca Dhuibhne where an all-Irish teaching policy is in place.

Annascaul's primary school, Scoil Breac Chluain, is within the Dingle school catchment area, which also means a school bus service is supplied.

According to the families, many of the pupils would like to attend the Dingle school, however feel that they cannot cope with the pressure of studying every subject through the medium of Irish, as primary school teaching in Annascaul is done bilingually.

Calls to introduce a bilingual stream in the school were turned down and a group, Concerned Parents of Chorca Dhuibhne, began legal proceedings against the school.

However the High Court has since appointed a mediator, prestigious barrister Dr. Gerald Hogan, the author of several books and numerous articles and who has appeared in and argued many important cases in the High Court, Supreme Court, European Court of Justice and the European Court of Human Rights. He is expected to arrive at the school to begin mediation talksn between the school's board of management and the parents group this month.

However for the parents of the children who felt they had no choice but to pursue second level education in Tralee, they will for now, in their own words, continue to remain out in the cold.

Pictured above left, members of the Concerned Parents of Chorca Dhuibhne group.

Irish language initatives for local authority tenants

Local authority tenatnts to avail of Irish classes and courses initative
A new course for Local Authority tenants in Gaeltacht areas is allowing them to build up their Irish language skills, as well as improving their employment prospects into the future. The Tenants’ Irish/ Tourism course, which was launched in Dún Chíomháin, Baile an Fheirtéaraigh on Friday, January 9th, has been organised by Kerry County Council, Fáilte Ireland, Údarás na Gaeltachta, and Kerry Education Service, with nine students attending classes three times a week since last October. In April, a further nine students will take the next module of the course. This will see Fáilte Ireland’s Hospitality/Food & Beverage course delivered through the medium of Irish, the first time ever that this has happened.
“All the agencies involved have a commitment to preserving and promoting the Irish language and culture in Gaeltacht areas,” Roibeard Ó hEartáin, Oifigeach Gaeilge with Kerry County Council explained.
“The agencies, and the tenants themselves, felt that there was a need to for supports to be put in place to allow the tenants to improve their language skills. This would help to promote the language and also allow them and their families to better integrate into the local community and culture.”
Using feedback from the tenants and with the aid of the agencies involved, a course schedule was arranged, which would address the needs of the tenants.
“For example, one of the modules is called School & Home, and allows parents to help their children with their homework,” Roibeard pointed out.
“Additionally, the Fáilte Ireland course can give the students an additional skill, particularly in relation to cultural tourism, which is a major employer in the West Kerry area.”
For further information contact Roibeard Ó hEartáin at 066-7183532.

Food for thought...

Lón Gaelach san Ionad Teanga sa Daingean - Irish Language Luncheon in Dingle
Bí linn don lón ag 1pm ar an Máirt, an 22ú Eanair agus gach tarna Máirt ina dhiaidh sin. Tar go dtí an tIonad Teangan ar an Meall, bíodh blaiseadh le n-ithe agat agus dein do chuid Gaoluinne a labhairt nó a chleachtadh. Tuilleadh eolais: Máire Nó Caitríona ag 066-9156100
All are welcome to lunch ‘tré Ghaeilge’ at the Language Centre on the Mall, Dingle, at 1pm on Tuesday, January 22nd and every second Tuesday afterwards.

Record crowds in Dingle on New Year's Eve

Recession? More like a session!

Fireworks and New Year's celebrations draw record crowds to Dingle

The boom was back for a limited time only in Dingle last week as record numbers converged on the town to enjoy the New Year's celebrations last Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday night. Local guesthouses, B&Bs and hotels were packed to capacity catching pubs, shops and restaurants on the hop so to speak as they struggled to meet the demand as visitors of all ages, from young party-goers to families to the more senior, filled the town and surrounding area. The recession turned session in Dingle last Tuesday as locals were surprised to find their usual haunts jammed packed that night with visitors. Many pubs even had some punters jump behind the bar to help out with the onslaught of bodies in some of the town's most popular nightspots. People continued to arrive in the town on New Year's Eve and as B&Bs and hotels began to fill a 'no room at the Inn' scenario saw many visitors struggle to find accommodation at the last minute. A thrilling fireworks display hosted by the Dingle Business Chamber at the head of the pier at 10pm on New Year's Eve saw people turn out in their thousands. Such were the crowds that many visitors and even locals opted to park outside the town and walk in the see the amazing light-show sponsored by local businesses in the town. Pubs and restaurants were soon jam-packed as party-goers of all ages congregated in the town centre at the Mall Bridge where a digital countdown clock was beamed via a projector onto the gable of a large building. The Dingle Fife and Drum Band then marched through the town as the clock struck twelve to ring in the New Year making their way to the Mall Bridge to greet the party-goers. Cash registers rang in the New Year as publicans saw their premises come alive for the first time in many months. Local nightclub, the Hillgrove, had to close their doors early despite being one of Kerry's largest nightclubs. The town's other late nightspot, An Droichead Beag was also packed to capacity as bouncers worked to ensure the safety of its patrons. Despite the record numbers the night went off without any major incidents and a feeling of goodwill was generally in evidence as the singing and dancing went on into the early hours. New Year's Day saw many of the visitors opting to stay on as staff worked hard in pubs and restaurants around the town to feed the hungry punters which saw queues form in many establishments as people waited for free tables in many of the town's eateries. A Duck-Race was hosted on the Mall River as well as Two-Time Polka in O'Flaherty's Pub that afternoon which saw the popular trad pub packed to the rafters. The party continued on New Year's Day with another lively night out on the town.

Pictured left, Danielle Slye and Mary Farrell (Ballyferriter & Dingle), pictured right, Lorraine and Debbie Scanlon (Lispole & Dingle) in Ashe's Bar on Main Street. Pictures courtesy of Sinead Bawn Brosnan.

Dingle Wren on Song

One hell of a party!

Dingle exploded in a blaze of colour and song lastF riday as the wren boys took over the town for the annual celebration of Lá an Dreolín, or Wren's Day as it is also known. The tradition, which has been going strong in the town since the late 1800s, draws hundreds to Dingle every year to witness the spectacle for themselves. The Dingle Wrens, dressed in traditional straw rigs and brightly coloured costumes marched through the town engaging all with the powerful sound of the fife and drum. The Wrens collected funds for several worthy causes on the day as well as paying a visit to the patients in the Dingle hospital. The town's streets are home to several different wrens; the world famous Green and Gold headed off from Tigh Tabhairne Uí Flathbheartaigh on Bridge Street around midday followed by the Goats Street Wren from McCarthys Bar, the John Street Wren and the Quay Wren from the Marina. The town will also welcomed wrens that came in from the surrounding countryside west of Dingle and 'below the hill' in Cloghane, culminating to create a colourful spectacle which has to be seen to be believed with the celebrations going on into the small hours of Saturday morning. Those interested in learning more about this fantastic tradition can join the Dingle Wren Group on Facebook.

Christmas sean-nós in Ballyferriter this Saturday

For a true old-time Irish Christmas join Páidí Mhárthain MacGearailt and co for an amazing evening of Sean-Nós in Ballyferriter at the Smerwick Harbour Hotel this Saturday, December 27th, starting at 9pm.

High Court action against Dingle school may be avoided

Leading SC to act as mediator in Dingle Pobalscoil talks

An end may be in sight in the saga surrounding the all-Irish teaching policy at Dingle secondary school Pobalscoil Chorca Dhuibhne as local parents group Concerned Parents of Corca Dhuibhne (CPCD) have suggested mediation talks in an effort to resolve the problem out of court. "We suggested meditation talks and both the Department of Education and the Pobalscoil agreed to take part" explained a spokesperson for CPCD. "The talks will take place in the school in either early or late January and will be mediated by Dr. Gerard Hogan Senior Counsel (pictured left). A practising barrister and a member of the Governing Council of UNIDROIT, Dr. Hogan is currently Chairman of the Law Reporting Council of Ireland. He is a former member of the Constitution Review Group, Competition and Mergers Review Group and the Offences Against the State Acts Review Group. He is currently a member of the Committee on Court Practice and Procedure and is a former member of the Competition Authority’s Advisory Panel. He is also a Judge of the OECD’s Nuclear Energy Tribunal, the author of several books and numerous articles on topics including Irish constitutional law, administrative law, conflict of laws and European Community law. Dr. Hogan has also appeared in and argued many important cases in the High Court, Supreme Court, European Court of Justice and the European Court of Human Rights.

Concerned Parents of Corca Dhuibhne lodged high court proceedings against Pobalscoil Chorca Dhuibhne earlier this year in an effort to tackle the all-Irish teaching policy at the new Pobalscoil (which opened in September 2007 amalgamating Meánscoil na Toirbhirte and Meánscoil na mBráithre) and encourage bilingual teaching methods as, according to CPCD, children who weren't proficient in the Irish language were being sidelined. "The High Court proceedings will run parallel with this mediation, hopefully we can arrive at a solution through talks at the school but if not we will have no choice but to revert to legal action" the spokesperson added. "We are currently looking at a court date in February if these talks fail, we sincerely hope that doesn't happen and that we can come to a solution." The parents group are seeking bilingual teaching as they feel that many of their children cannot achieve their full academic potential unless teaching in English and in Irish is available as the Pobalscoil is Dingle's only second level public school. The schools Board of Management have maintained that additional Irish classes have been made available to those who need extra help and the school's Gaeltacht status dictates the necessity for a strong Irish language policy. However following a series of public meetings, the signing of petitions and a sit out by some students at the school last year the Concerned Parents felt that legal action was the only avenue left for them to take with some students from the Dingle catchment area leaving the school to seek out second level education in Castlegregory and Tralee. "The best way to solve any problem is to sit down and talk about it' said Seán Ó'Suilleabháin of the school's Board of Management, "we warmly welcome this development and will give our full support to there talks."

Visit www.dingleparentsforjustice.com for more background on the issue.

Mick Galwey presents new jerseys to Cumann Rugbaí Chorca Dhuibhne

Munster rugby star and former Irish Captain Mick Galwey was in Dingle last week to present West Kerry Rugby Club, Cumann Rugbaí Chorca Dhuibhne with their new jerseys which are this year being sponsored by Siopa Londis Uí Fhlaithearta (O'Flaherty's Londis) in Milltown-Dingle. Pictured, l-r, Seán Páidí Grummel and Mick Dooley (Cumann Rugbaí Chorca Dhuibhne), Mick Galwey, Gene O'Flaherty (store proprieator and Cumann Rubgaí Chorca Dhuibhne player) and Mary Begley of Londis-Dingle. Check out Cumann Rugbaí Chorca Dhuibhne's website at http://www.rubgaicorcadhuibhne.blogspot.com/.

Siopa Uí Fhlaithearta, O'Flaherty's Londis-Dingle in Milltown-Dingle is open seven days a week, Mon-Sat 7am-10.30pm and Sunday 8am-10.30pm offering great fuel services, grocery, newsagency, Lotto, ample parking, wine, stamps and post services as well as freshly ground Coffee and the best Deli in Kerry. Tel: 066 - 915 0628 for more info; gift vouchers now available for Christmas.

Local family electrify Dingle for Christmas

Light up, light up

There was great celebration in Dingle last Sunday as local stalwart Vin Houlihan officially switched on the town's Christmas lights on behalf of Dingle Business Chamber. Vin's father Johnny made history in the early part of the twentieth century as he manged to build an electrical generator in Dingle before electricity was widespread in Ireland. Vin himself joined his father in lighting up the town bringing electricity and street lights to West Kerry for the first time long before other towns and villages in the county. The lighting of the Christmas lights marks the beginning of the festive season in the town as Dingle Business Chamber launch their annual Christmas Shopping Promotion. For the month of December to January 31st people may avail of a range of discounts on local services by using the vouchers available in local shops and businesses. Day trippers to Fungie can avail of a two for the price of one to see the world famous dolphin as well as discounts in the swimming pool at Dingle World of Leisure and the Peninsula Spa at the Dingle Skellig Hotel. Two of one deals may also be accessed using the vouchers at the new climbing wall Play at Height in Ballinaboula. Visitors to Dingle are also looking forward to the annual Wren's Day celebrations on December 26th as well as a mighty fireworks display on the Marina on New Year's Eve.

Lighting the Christmas lights on the pier in Dingle last Sunday were, pictured l-r, Gillian Sheehy, Dearbhla Sheehy, Ciarán O' Neill, Caoimhe Sheehy and Rachel O'Neill. Back, l-r, John Sheehy (Dingle Business Chamber), Marion Kavanagh, Tom O'Neill, Gráinne Kavanagh, Vin Houlihan and Veronica Houlihan-O'Neill.

Club Óige Breannáinn raises funds for Ski Lankan orphans

The gift of love

Feothneach Youth Club, Club Óige Breannáinn are sending their best wishes to Ski Lanka this Christmas as they have managed to raise almost €400 for orphans in St. Anthony's Orphanage in Ski Lanka in an effort to give them the things that we take for granted. The youth club which operates totally as Gaeilge for 11-16 year olds raised the funds through bag-packing and other activities, aware of the fact that €3 feeds a child at the orphanage for a week. The conscirntious young people presented the funds to Dónal MacGearailt of Baile an Lochaigh who is currently running a massive fundraising drive for the Orphanage in Columbo, Sri Lanka, a region devastated by civil war and the 2005 Tsunami in South East Asia.Dónal himself will travel to the orphanage in the New Year to present the funds, including €1,300 that was raised in Gallarus earlier this year when An Ghaeltacht took on Feale Rangers earlier this year. The West Kerry man was motivated to take on the task of fundraising when he travelled to Ski Lanka to act as best man at the wedding of his best friend Tony Arulanndam.The newlyweds had asked that their guests to make a donation to the Orphanage instead of giving them presents. The wedding party, including Dónal, then went to the orphanage to bestow presents on the children. "Their faces just lit up" said Donál "many of these children have no one left in the world and receiving even just a small gift means the world to them."Dónal hopes to return to the orphanage in the New Year with the funds raised in West Kerry. He is urging local people who wish to do something different for a Christmas gift this year to think of the orphanage. "It costs only €3 to feed a child at the orphanage for a week; our Euros really go a long way out there" said Donal.

An account has been opened Credit Union in Dingle for those who wish to contribute to St.Anthony's Orphanage; A/C 4996 D.

Club Óige Breannáinn presented funds raised for St. Anthony's Orphanage in Ski Lanka last Friday night in Halla na Feothneach to Dónal MacGearailt of Baile an Lochaigh. Pictured front, l-r, Alanagh Johnson, Ellen Ritson and Katie Fitzgerald. Back, l-r, Dónal MacGearailt, Shonagh Begley, Sorcha Ní Bhruic, Edel Breathneach, Natalie Johnson and Róisín Breathnach.

Zambian cake-sale fundraiser organised by Dingle Med student

A student doctor from Dingle is off the Zambia next year in an effort to provide life-saving medical assistance and supplies in the Mpongwe region.
Vanessa Ní Churráin (pictured left) from Cnoc a'Brogín, Dingle is currently a 5th year medical student at NUI Galway and as part of her training she is to travel to Mpongwe in Zambia next summer for two months with Voluntary Services Abroad, (the voluntary organisation in the university) along with three other medical students and two nurses.
"We organise numerous VSA fundraising events throughout the year and last year's group raised a phenomenal E254,000 which was distributed amongst seven groups who volunteered throughout Africa and South America" Vanessa explained. "The money is used to buy medical supplies and basic equipment for the various clinics and hospitals. In Mpongwe, where I am travelling to, a group of three final civil engineering students volunteered there last year and built an out-patient's clinic."
Our plan this year isto get the clinic fully up and running and also to purchase whatever equipment that is needed."
In preparation, Vanessa has organised a fundraising cake sale in Dingle's Gháirdín Mhuire on Green St, on Sunday the 21st of December after 9am Mass.
"All contributions would be greatly appreciated be it through donations or by bringing in cakes!" Vanessa added.

"A Euro spent locally comes back twenty-fold"

"A euro spent locally comes back twenty-fold"

Dingle Business Chamber urges shoppers to support local business this Christmas

A prominent Dingle publician has spoken out about the importance of supporting local industries in the run up to Christmas in light of a recession and an uncertain economic future. According to John Benny Moriarty, Vice-President of Dingle Business Chamber, a euro spent locally will come back twenty-fold in terms of benefiting the local economy. "Its a way of injecting capital into the area which is vitally important in all small towns at the moment as we face a period of uncertainty in the marketplace" said John. "Towns like Dingle, and indeed other small towns throughout the county, offer a lot more when it comes to Christmas shopping with local artisan food producers, arts, crafts, pottery, jewellery or knitwear; you will often find unique gifts which you cannot get in the bigger towns."John also pointed out pitfalls to those travelling abroad, to New York for example, with the intention of doing a lot of Christmas shopping. "The airports are employing more customs staff than ever before and all goods being brought into the country are being scrutinised for payment of excise duty, it may end up costing even more than it had at home if you care caught with too many items" he said.

"Kerry's smaller towns offer a fantastic charm all their own and in addition you will find that there are great accommodation and restaurant deals available something you will not find in the bigger cities as they up their rates in the run up to Christmas."

"Now more than ever before small businesses have their backs against the wall; Christmas shoppers can do their part by looking at their own area's shops, food producers and services when it comes to gifts."

http://www.tripadvisor.ie/Travel-g211861-c97377/Dingle:Ireland:John.Benny.Moriartys.Pub.html

Louis Mulcahy Pottery launches Christmas web-order service

You can now purchase a range of Louis Mulcahy's bespoke pottery made in Corca Dhuibhne online at www.louismulcahy.com. To receive them in time for Christmas; for Europe order by noon Tuesday 16th, for UK order by noon Wednesday 17th, for Ireland order by noon Thursday 18th. Happy Christmas from all at Louis Mulcahy Pottery, Baile an Fheirteáraigh, Co. Ciarraí.

Other Voices 7 Line-Up Revealed

Other Voices; back with a bang...

An exciting line-up has been announced for the seventh series of the RTÉ Two music show 'Other Voices' which will be recorded at St. James' Church on Main Street Dingle for the seventh year running, from Friday 5th to Tuesday 9th December.
Damien Rice's former other musical half Lisa Hannigan makes a much anticipated appearance after her sell-out US tour along with James Morrison. Belfast's Duke Special, (pictured left) riding high at the moment with 'Sweet Sweet Kisses' has also been confirmed as well as Manchester's Elbow and Noah and the Whale.
Irish favourites Kila and Mick Flannery will also perform.
The current schedule runs as; Emiliana Torini and Duke Special will perform on Friday, with Billy Bragg, Liam Finn, Noah and the Whale, Colm Mac Con Iomaire set to appear on Saturday. Sunday's line-up has Elbow, Richard Hawley and James Morrison with Lisa Hannigan, Steve Reynolds and Mick Flannery performing on Monday. On the final night Kila, Imelda May, Eric Bibb and Jape are set to appear. The new series will be shown on RTÉ Two in January, with presenter John Kelly joined by a new co-host, BBC Radio 1 DJ Annie Mac. Past performers at Other Voices include Amy Winehouse, James Blunt, Damien Rice and Sinead O'Connor to mention just a few.
More info is available at www.rte.ie/tv/othervoices/archive.html or check out past Other Voices performances on YouTube.

New Irish Theatre in West Kerry

New Irish Language Theatre for West Kerry
A new Irish language theatre, Lab na Mainistreach, is to open in Dingle, based in the old science room in the former Christian Brothers Secondary school in Dingle.

It'll open with a new play called Raic by Aodh Ó'Dómhnaill, which will be presented by local Irish language youth theatre group AnnÓg who are behind the venture. Newly designated Gael na Bliana, Des Bishop will officially open the theatre on Saturday, November 29th.

Whats on in the Cinema this week?

Phoenix Cinema, Dingle
066-915 1222
Listing valid for seven days from Friday November 21st.
Please note listings are always subject to change.
Movies this week;
Burn After Reading Sun - Thu 8.30pm
High School Musical 3: Senior Year
For Tralee Onmiplex movie times visit;
http://entertainment.ie/cinemas/Tralee-Omniplex/Kerry/225/13.htm
For Killarney Cineplax movie times visit;
http://entertainment.ie/cinemas/Killarney-Cineplex/Kerry/198/13.htm

Dingle Hospital on track for completion

Dingle Hospital to be completed next month
According to HSE officials Dingle's new 68-bed community hospital is on track for completion next month, however it is still unclear as to when patients will actually be transferred to the facility. Responding to a parliamentary question posed by Deputy Jimmy Deenihan, Local Health Manager for Kerry Tom Leonard released a statement this week indicating that the €16.4 million project at Farran, Dingle is poised for completion this December. Construction commenced in early October 2007 and according to the statement released this week by Mr. Leonard, "it is envisaged that it will be completed next month."
"The HSE has commenced the detailed work of commissioning the unit, i.e. purchasing equipment, commissioning of plant etc, there is also provision in the HSE's capital plan for the full equipping of the unit" he said. "As part of the 2009 budgetary process, the HSE has included provision for the pay and non-pay costs associated with the running of this unit in 2009." The statement also warned however that it is unclear as to when the hospital will become operational. "The HSE Service Plan for 2009 is currently being formulated and pending finalisation of the Service Plan it is not possible at this stage to advise when the unit will become operational and when patients can be transferred to the new facility" it read. The new hospital will replace the existing 43 bed community hospital and the project also includes a mental health day care centre, a day care centre for older people and an ambulance base.

WIN TWO TICKETS TO HARLEM GOSPEL CHOIR PERFORMANCE IN DINGLE

The world famous Harlem Gospel Choir will play a special one-off performance in Dingle on Friday December 5th in the Hillgrove Hotel. This is a fantastic opportunity to them on their world-tour. DingleNews.com has two tickets to give away, all you have to do is e-mail the answer to the following question;

Q; In which city is Harlem?

a) Chicago
b) Dallas
c) New York City

E-mail your answer to dinglenews@gmail.com before closing date, 6pm December 3rd 2008.

Dingle set for Harlem Hallelujah

World famous Harlem Gospel Choir to perform at the Hillgrove Hotel

Dingle is preparing for a soul revolution this winter as the world famous Harlem Gospel Choir perform a special one-off gig at the Hillgrove Hotel on Friday, December 5th. The Harlem Gospel Choir has been traveling the world since it was formed in 1986 by Allen Bailey who got the idea for the Choir while attending a celebration in honour of Dr. Martin Luther King at the Cotton Club in Harlem, New York. The Choir presents the finest singers and musicians from Harlem's African-American Churches and over the years they have shared the stage with some of the world's most influential figures. In 1990 the Harlem Gospel Choir performed for Nelson Mandela at Yankee Stadium shortly after his release following the end of apartheid in South Africa and in 2003 they performed for Pope John Paul II at the Vatican. The Harlem Gospel Choir have also performed with many of Ireland's greatest acts such as U2, Sineád O'Connor and the Chieftains as well as some of the world's biggest stars including Diana Ross and Lisa Marie Presley on the Oprah Winfrey Show which was broadcast from Madison Square Gardens last year. The Dingle date is the choir's only Kerry performance, more information is available at 066-9151131or at http://www.ticketmaster.ie/

John Benny's named in Ireland's Top Three Pubs

Dingle Pub, John Benny's, was named one of Ireland's top three pubs last week at the Hospitality Ireland Awards held at the Four Seasons Hotel in Dublin, along with The John Hewitt Bar, Belfast and Cronin's Pub, Crosshaven, Cork. The event was judged by Judges a number of industry experts and food and drink writers.John Benny Moriarty's has always been known for its great food and drink and commitment to live traditional music. Pictured, l-r, Eilibhís and John Benny Moriarty (of John Benny's, Dingle) with Emily Hourican, (Editor Hospitality Ireland), Michael Murphy (Head Chef) and Yvonne Leahy (Head Waitress).

Dingle's Sex and the City fundraiser a great success

New York nights
The bold and the beautiful converged on the Dingle Skellig Hotel last Saturday night as over 200 revellers turned out to attend the Sex and the City themed Gala Ball held in aid of West Kerry childcare centre, Áiseanna na hÓige. With Dara Ó Cinnéide as MC on the night (as the evening's resident 'Mr. Big'!), the champagne flowed. The characters of the Sex and the City TV series, Carrie, Samantha, Miranda and Charlotte are feted for their unique sense of style and the highlight of the Dingle event was the selection of four local ladies that best represented the SATC vibe. Anna Scanlon was chosen as the demure Charlotte while Caroline Kelliher was announced as the flamboyant Samantha. Siobhán Ní Mhathúna took the accolade as the sharp suited Miranda while Lisa Shanahan was a deserving Carrie The high-spirited event continued into the night with entertainment The Promise who donated their services to the event for free.Those in attendance were also treated to a gift bag each on the night and several prizes were given away including €1,000 and hotel breaks. Organisers hope to tally up to €20k to improve childcare services in Dingle. (Pictured, l-r, Siobhan (as Miranda), Caroline (as Samantha), Anna (as Charlotte) and Lisa (as Carrie) with Dara (as Mr. Big!).

Poetry & Photography offer unique perspective in new book

An insightful perspective

A unique collaborative effort was launched in West Kerry last weekend as local poet Dr. Mícheál Ó Fionnáin and photographer Fiona Morgan unveiled a new book of Irish language poetry and photography entitled Briathar agus Solas. The talented pair unveiled the project to a packed house at An Bóthar pub in Cuas, Feothneach last Sunday night. According to Mícheál the book, published by Coiscéim, charters the unique archeology and spirituality of the Parishes of West Kerry. Each one of Mícheál's poems in the book is accompanied by photography by Fiona, offering unique insight and perspective on the wild and weather worn landscape of West Kerry. Mícheál's poetry is often inspired by the varying culture and customs of West Kerry's many Parishes which often sees pagan Celticism and Christian spirituality collide and co-exist.

Dingle's 'Artman' unveils new exhibition

A new exhibition of art was recently unveiled at Dingle's newest galleries, The Irish Artman, on Green Street. A large crowd attended the launch hosted by gallery owner James Thompson which saw the unveiling of new works by several of Ireland's top artists including Graham Knuttel, John Behan, Rowland Davidson, David Jenkins and Lorna Millar. There was also a local flavour to proceedings as Dingle based artist, Anne Stack exhibited some of her latest works. According to James, a native of Dingle and an avid art collector, the event was a great success. "It was a very enjoyable evening" he said, "the main purpose of the Irish Artman is to bring exciting works by a number of nationally and internationally renowned artists to Kerry."
More information is available at www.irishartman.ie