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Irish Independent
15-06-2025
- General
- Irish Independent
Pics from Cork show a proud day for one community as its thriving Men's Shed is opened in style
Also in attendance were Cllr. Bernard Moynihan, Moira Murrell, CEO Cork County Council, Niall Healy, North Cork Divisional Manager, Cork County Council, Engineer Billy Dennehy, Minister Michael Moynihan, Leonora Kelly and Shane McHale representing IRD Duhallow. Cllr. Moynihan congratulated all involved in establishing the Shed, as well as the organisations that provided funding for the project. 'Sincere thanks also, to all those who do such great work around the village, and to those who promote the area. Everyone is deeply dedicated to community here,' he said. Paddy O'Connor, speaking on behalf of Kiskeam Development Association remarked that the Shed is 'an open door' for all the men who want to use it. 'Our aim was to develop a Men's Shed that would welcome people from all around Western Duhallow - Kiskeam, Ballydesmond, Cullen, Newmarket, Knocknagree and Rathmore, everyone is welcome. 'From the perspective of the Development Association, it was an absolute treat to work with such an enthusiastic group of people.' After cutting the ribbon and officially opening the Shed, Mayor of Cork County Cllr. Joe Carroll commended everyone involved in what he described as an exceptional project. 'I've met with so many communities all around the county and I've been hugely impressed by what they have achieved, but what you have here is exceptional, you can congratulate yourself. 'This is a marvellous day for Kiskeam, there is a fantastic community here. It's a great honour to be here today and what I'm seeing here is an inspiration to communities everywhere. 'To the people who use the Shed – I wish you great health, good conversation and plenty strong cups of tea! Thank you for inviting me,' the Mayor said. ADVERTISEMENT Learn more Denis O'Mahony, speaking on behalf of the Men's Shed group outlined the progress of the project since it was first mooted two years ago. 'Kiskeam Development Association conducted a survey amongst members of the community in 2023. Following a positive response, the group organised an open night for those who might be interested in setting up a Men's Shed. 'Following the initial meeting, a committee was formed in November 2023. With generous donations from our local community fundraising, we sourced a shed from local suppliers ProSteel Suppliers which was erected during the summer of 2024 and subsequently opened in August 2024. 'We sourced tools and equipment from various partners and funding was secured from IRD Duhallow in August 2024. Since then, we have welcomed guest speakers on diverse topics such as Emergency Medical Response, Age Friendly Ireland, Social Welfare Financial Advice, Crime Prevention and Horticulture. The Men also hosted Open Evenings for the Bealtaine Festival and Culture Night. 'Going forward, our intention is to support good health and well being, support men's mental health, increase physical activities, facilitate workshops and collaborative projects within the community, and promote volunteering opportunities,' Denis said.
Irish Independent
09-06-2025
- General
- Irish Independent
Pics show young Cork learners who mastered touch-typing and other skills recognised at ceremony
Proud family members and tutors were in the audience last week when IRD Duhallow hosted a Recognition of Learning ceremony celebrating the achievements of children who took part in the 2024/2025 Literacy Advancement and Touch, Type, Read and Spell (TTRS) children programmes. The evening was a celebration of each participant's progress, marked by the presentation of certificates, treat bags, and trophies to the children. Special recognition was given to three students—Vivien Field, Daniel Kenneally, and James Guiney, who have completed the full TTRS programme. The ceremony was attended by tutors Aoife Murphy, Sarah Jones, Katie Hickey, and Nollaig Murphy, along with programme coordinator Melissa Holland. IRD Duhallow runs weekly classes during the school year for children in the Cork and Kerry SICAP areas. The Literacy Advancement Initiative is delivered by qualified primary school teachers. It focuses on reading, writing, spelling, memory, and sequencing skills in supportive small group settings. The TTRS programme complements this with a multisensory computer-based approach that helps children develop touch typing, spelling, and reading skills. The programme uses repetition and dictation exercises to boost reading, listening, and typing proficiency while reinforcing overall learning. The Recognition of Learning event was a heart-warming reminder of the importance of empowering young learners and a testament to the dedication of both the children and their educators. If anyone is interested in signing up their child for the Autumn/Winter term, please reach out to to register.
