Latest news with #McKiernan
Irish Daily Mirror
03-07-2025
- Irish Daily Mirror
Ex-county council chairman pleads guilty to theft of over €170,000 from charity
A former history-making Fine Gael chairman of Cavan County Council has pleaded guilty to the theft of money from a mental health charity. Sean McKiernan, 43, from Trinity Bungalow, Virginia Road, Bailieborough, was charged with 58 counts of theft at various unknown locations within the State from Navan Mental Health Housing Association six years ago, in 2019. The sums varied between €500 and €7,500 and the total amount involved in the theft was €172,000, which was revealed at a previous court date. Carey was due to stand trial in the case before a judge and jury. However, on Thursday he appeared before Judge John Martin at Trim Circuit Court, where his counsel said 'progress can be made' in the case. McKiernan was then arraigned on two sample counts, 1 and 58, on the charge sheets. He pleaded guilty to theft under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Theft and Fraud Act that, on March 26, 2019 at a location unknown in the State, did steal €5,230 from Navan Mental Health Housing Association. He further pleaded guilty to theft under the same act that, on April 6, 2020 at a location unknown in the State, he did steal €800 from Navan Mental Health Housing Association. Counsel for McKiernan said a sentencing hearing date is required and said it 'should take 40 minutes'. Judge Martin remanded McKiernan on continuing bail to appear before the court again on October 29 'for a date for sentencing to be fixed'. The Irish Mirror's Crime Writers Michael O'Toole and Paul Healy are writing a new weekly newsletter called Crime Ireland. Click here to sign up and get it delivered to your inbox every week Dressed in a navy blazer and cream trousers, McKiernan only addressed the court to confirm his name and to enter his guilty pleas. McKiernan made history in 2011 when he was elected the youngest ever chairman, or Cathaoirleach, of Cavan County Council. He was a Fine Gael councillor for the Bailieborough electoral area from 2007 to 2014. He was also a member of Cavan/Monaghan Education Training Board (ETB) and served a term as its Cathaoirleach in 2016. He was actively involved in hosting the All Ireland Fleadh Cheoil in Cavan Town in 2010, 2011 and 2012 and in developing the West Cavan Burren Geopark as well as the Taste of Cavan Festival. McKiernan previously worked with the former Minister for Skills, Research and Innovation Damien English and was nominated to the Seanad Election 2016 by the Restaurants Association of Ireland.
RTÉ News
03-07-2025
- RTÉ News
Breaking Ex-cathaoirleach pleads guilty to €172,000 theft from charity
A former cathaoirleach of Cavan County Council has pleaded guilty to the theft of just over €172,000 from a Co Meath charity. Seán McKiernan, with an address at Trinity Bungalow, Virginia Road, Bailieborough in Co Cavan, was charged with 58 counts of theft at various unknown locations within the State. The charges relate to thefts in amounts ranging from €500 to €7,500 from Navan Mental Health Housing Association on dates in 2019. McKiernan, 43, appeared before Judge John Martin at Trim Circuit Court, where the former Fine Gael councillor pleaded guilty to two sample charges. The first sample count relates to the theft of €5,230 on 26 March 2019 at an unknown location, while the second count involves the theft of €800 from the Meath-based charity on the 6 April 2020. McKiernan was a councillor for the Bailieborough electoral area from 2007 to 2014. He made history in 2011 when, at age 29, he was elected as the youngest ever Cathaoirleach of Cavan County Council. He was a member of the Cavan Monaghan Education Training Board and served a term as its chair. McKiernan was also a member of the national executive of Fine Gael for over a decade. Free legal aid was previously granted to Mr McKiernan in the form of a solicitor and two barristers. Judge Martin remanded McKiernan on continuing bail to appear before Trim Circuit Court on 21 October next for a sentencing date to be set.
Irish Independent
23-06-2025
- Sport
- Irish Independent
Sligo Rovers lose to high-flying Shelbourne as league struggles continue
Kate Mooney scored a hat-trick as Shels were comfortable winners in the end, although this may not have been the routine win that the Dubliners were expecting. Shels, managed by former Rovers player Eoin Wearen, were leading 2-1 at half-time after Anna McDaniel pulled one back for the Bit O'Red, and Rovers started the second-half brightly although ultimately Shels' experience and quality shone through. The defending FAI Cup champions were well on top early on, with Rovers stuck in their own half with a lot of defending to do. A Keeva Flynn block on six minutes denied Kate Mooney, before Roma McLaughlin's volley was saved by Bonnie McKiernan in the Rovers goals after good work from Mooney to set it up. Referee Kate O'Brien pointed to the spot on 19 minutes when Roma McLaughlin was body checked by Cara King on the goal-line, and Mooney's penalty just about crept in under McKiernan. A minute later, McKiernan did well to block Mooney's effort from close range, but there was little the Rovers goalkeeper could do to avoid the second Shels goal. In what was a lovely passing move, Rebecca Devereux burst down the right before crossing for Mooney. Mooney's touch allowed her to shake off Keeva Flynn, and the 26-year-old slotted past McKiernan to double Shels' advantage. It was the Bit O'Red who were celebrating on 32 minutes when they reduced the deficit. There was confusion over whether or not there should have been a throw, with Rovers capitalising on a quick switch-off from Shels, with Muireann Devaney's ball finding the run of Anna McDaniel. McDaniel used her pace to beat Pearl Slattery and Nia Hannon, somehow getting her shot in past Amanda McQuillan despite the angle. Rovers started the second-half brightly, with McDaniel dragging her effort wide after Slattery used all of her experience to close down the angle. It should have been 3-1 to Shels on 50 minutes when Mackenzie Anthony just had McKiernan to beat, but the Rovers keeper was well placed to make the save. Shels were appealing for a penalty on the hour mark, when Mooney went down after contact from McKiernan, but referee Kate O'Brien felt the incident didn't warrant a penalty. Mooney got her hat-trick, and Shels' third on 65 minutes when Keeva Keenan's ball into the box was cleared as far as Devereux, and the youngster's cross fell to Mooney who found the net for a third time. Shels ran out 3-1 winners in the end, but there were positive signs for Steve Feeney as his side prepare for next week's Sports Direct FAI Cup tie with DLR Waves at The Showgrounds. The Bit O'Red were beaten 1-0 by DLR Waves in the league last weekend, meaning the Waves are just one point behind Rovers in the league table now. Sligo Rovers: Bonnie McKiernan, Leah Kelly (Roise Burke, 81), Keeva Flynn (Lauren Devaney, 81), Eimear Lafferty, Cara King (Kya McKenna, 68), Sarah Kiernan, Emma Hansberry, Alana Doherty (Mairead McIntyre, 56), Muireann Devaney, Katie Melly (Morgan Burnap, 81), Anna McDaniel. Shelbourne: Amanda McQuillan, Keeva Keenan, Pearl Slattery, Nia Hannon, Leah Doyle (Jemma Quinn, 74), Alex Kavanagh, Rachel Graham (Aoibheann Clancy, 66), Roma McLaughlin (Gabby Del Pico, 70), Rebecca Devereux (Rebecca Cooke, 66), Mackenzie Anthony, Kate Mooney (Maeve Wollmer, 74). Referee: Kate O'Brien.
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Yahoo
Grant Co. Fairgrounds preparing for busy season
May 14—MOSES LAKE — The days are getting warmer and with the Grant County Fair just around the corner, the fairgrounds team is ramping up its preparations. Fairgrounds Director Jim McKiernan announced upgrades to the facility aimed at enhancing safety and overall visitor experience, while simultaneously addressing a crucial staffing shortage for seasonal positions. The legislature decided to table some bills that could have had impacts on the fairgrounds. The 187-acre facility, recognized as the largest equestrian venue in the state, is not only known for the annual Grant County Fair but is also a year-round destination for events that draw thousands from near and far. Upgrades The county is finishing approximately $1 million in upgrades to ensure the safety and satisfaction of fair attendees this season. Key improvements include new lighting, enhanced security cameras, a modern public address system and improved fencing around the property. These upgrades come in response to safety concerns stemming from a gang-related shooting incident during last year's fair. "A lot of our efforts, as far as capital projects, are having to do with safety this year as a result of last year's shooting," McKiernan said. The incident, which occurred in August 2024, left two teenagers injured and raised questions about security protocols at the outdoor venue. "Instead of installing metal detectors, the fairgrounds are focusing on visibility by using better lighting, more cameras, and more officers to watch the grounds," McKiernan said. In line with this approach, the facility is increasing its security camera presence from 19 to approximately 50 cameras throughout the fairgrounds, with monitoring stations set up at crucial locations. Improvements to the lighting are also substantial. "We've put in new lighting in a lot of the areas ... most of the grounds have new high-intensity lighting," McKiernan said. Grant County Sheriff's Office Sheriff Joey Kriete highlighted the benefits of improved lighting, describing it as being comparable to "daylight," which will significantly enhance visibility for law enforcement during nighttime events. The installation of the public address system aims to enhance communication throughout the fairgrounds. "We're going to put speakers in the shops and everything so all the campgrounds can hear," said McKiernan. This upgrade will make it easier to notify guests in real-time regarding any incidents or safety concerns. Staffing challenges While infrastructure improvements are taking center stage, McKiernan expressed concern over staffing shortages that could jeopardize the operational readiness of the fairgrounds as the busy season approaches. Traditionally, the fairgrounds hire four to six seasonal workers to manage the increased workload during the fair. However, this year, McKiernan reported difficulties in filling these essential roles. "This year has been particularly tough for us," McKiernan said. "We usually start hiring in March, and while we've successfully filled our office positions, our search for outside crew members has not been fruitful." With very few viable applications received, the fairgrounds are at risk of being short-staffed in the weeks leading up to the fair. The seasonal positions offer a wage of $20.25 per hour for guaranteed 40-hour workweeks, with potential overtime available. The roles require applicants to be at least 18 years old and physically capable of lifting up to 50 pounds. Duties include outdoor maintenance, event setup, landscaping, and custodial responsibilities, critical for preparing the fairgrounds for a successful event. "My crew is already stretched thin, working seven days a week, 12-hour days during the fair and the week before," McKiernan stated. "If we don't hire additional seasonal staff, we may not be able to manage the events we have scheduled." He urges potential applicants to visit the Grant County government website for job postings. Legislation Senate Bill 5098 which had been set to ban firearms in public areas where children may be present, had brought up concerns for the fairgrounds, according to both McKiernan and Kriete. The bill, if it had passed, would have allowed weapons to be restricted in public buildings, parks, playgrounds and county fairs. The August fairgrounds shooting had brought up concerns for bill sponsor Javier Valdez, D-Seattle. Valdez is originally from Moses Lake and said the shooting had encouraged him to bring forth the legislation. However, Kriete and McKiernan said they did not believe the bill, if it had been in effect last year, would have prevented the shooting. "The only thing I would say is that the bill is not going to mitigate the situation we had here at the fairgrounds," McKiernan said. "A 15-year-old was illegally carrying. He was already breaking the law. Anybody that's trying to get a weapon in, when you have 187 acres and 4,000 feet of fencing, probably can." Kriete agreed. The bill did not pass through the legislature though. Instead, it had one vote in the Senate of 28 yeas and 21 nays. When it made it to the house, it was transferred back to the Senate Rules Committee on April 27 and was not seen again. Events: May 16-18 WAHSET State Finals The WAHSET State Finals are set to showcase the top high school equestrian talents at the Ardell and Harwood Pavilions. This prestigious event promises heart-pounding performances with precision maneuvers and captivating displays of horsemanship. Participants and spectators can anticipate a weekend filled with fierce competition and dedication. May 31 CBBRC Spring Classic 5D Race The Columbia Basin Barrel Racing Club will host the Spring Classic 5D Race at the Ardell Pavilion starting at 10 a.m. Attendees can expect thrilling barrel racing action with lightning-fast turns and a vibrant atmosphere. For more details, visit June 11 11th Annual Senior Picnic The 11th Annual Senior Picnic will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the commercial building, featuring entertainment, food, giveaways, and vendor booths. Seniors over the age of 55 can attend for free, while those 55 and younger will be charged $5. For further details, visit June 14 Monster Truck Nitro Tour The Monster Truck Nitro Tour offers two pit parties, one from noon to 1 p.m. and another from 6 to 7 p.m., both held in the Blue Parking lot before the main events in the Rodeo Arena. The first show starts at 1:30 p.m., with a second show at 7:30 p.m. Tickets for ages 13 and up are priced from $19.95, children's tickets, ages 2 to 12, are $10, and children under two get in free; prices might vary, and tickets are available at the gate or through June 20-22 Cavalcade of Ponies Prepare to be captivated by the Miniature Horse and Shetland Pony Show at the Ardell Pavilion, hosted by the Northwest Miniature Horse & Shetland Pony Alliance. Enjoy a weekend of charm as these tiny equines display their beauty, agility, and delightful personalities. For details, visit June 26-29 WA State Junior Horse Show Enjoy a weekend at the Grant County Fairgrounds' Harwood Pavilion, where young riders showcase their talents at the Washington State Junior Horse Show. Events include everything from elegant dressage to thrilling jumps, highlighting the grace and skill of these passionate participants. Saddle up with 4-H for an unforgettable experience; for more information, head to July 11-13 PNW Ranch Horse Show The Harwood Pavilion will host the PNW Ranch Horse Show, where riders and their horses will display skill, agility, and impressive horsemanship. Spectators can expect to be captivated by stunning maneuvers and thrilling performances. For additional details, visit July 18-19 NWJSE and WSSP Ram and Ewe Sale Visit the sales barn this weekend to explore top sheep from the Pacific Northwest at the NWJSE and WSSP Ram and Ewe Sale. Enjoy various sheep-related activities happening throughout the fairgrounds. For further details, visit July 26 CBBRC Summer Classic 5D Race Get ready for the excitement of the Summer Classic 5D Race hosted by the Columbia Basin Barrel Racing Club at the Ardell Pavilion, starting at 10 a.m. Riders and their horses will race against the clock, turning barrels into a thrilling display of speed and agility. For details, visit Aug. 12-16 Grant County Fair The Grant County Fair offers a variety of attractions, including carnival rides, games, vendor stalls and live music. Attendees can enjoy unique experiences like space-themed burgers and the chance to pet farm animals. Ticket prices range from $4.50 to $17, and more details can be found on their official website, Aug. 22-24 Western States American Breed Congress Get ready to showcase American breed excellence at the Western States American Breed Congress, hosted by the Inland Empire Buckskin Horse Association at the Harwood Pavilion. This event, held every August, features ABRA and AQHA classes along with added money open futurities, bringing breed enthusiasts together to celebrate American horse diversity. For further details, visit Aug. 29 — 31 Producers Gone Wild Producers Gone Wild presents an intense barrel racing event, organized by Best Of Barrels Only, showcasing the thrilling spectacle of top-tier riders and their skilled horses. Taking place at both the Ardell Pavilion and the Harwood Pavilion, this exciting competition promises a vibrant atmosphere as participants navigate the fast-paced course, demonstrating remarkable speed and agility. For additional details, participants and spectators can visit the official website at Sept. 6 CBBRC Fall Classic 5D Race The Columbia Basin Barrel Racing Club invites participants and spectators to the CBBRC Fall Classic 5D Race, set to commence at 10 a.m. at the Ardell Pavilion. This exciting event promises a day filled with the dynamic energy of barrel racing, showcasing riders and their horses as they navigate tight turns and thunder down the arena. For additional details about the event and registration, please visit Sept. 19 — 21 NWBHA Finals Get ready for the ultimate barrel-racing showdown at the Northwest Barrel Horse Association Finals, held at the Ardell Pavilion. This high-energy event showcases the skill and speed of riders and their trusted horses as they navigate a cloverleaf pattern around barrels, competing for top honors in the sport. For more details on this exciting competition, visit Sept. 26-28 Fall National Antique Tractor Pull The Fall National Antique Tractor Pull, hosted by Pullin' Sleds LLC, is poised to transform fields into a captivating showcase of horsepower and historical significance. This event celebrates the golden era of agriculture while offering participants and spectators a thrilling competition that highlights the power and performance of vintage tractors. Set to take place in both the Agriculture Building and Ardell Pavilion, the tractor pull promises an immersive experience into the rich legacy of farming machinery. For additional details, please visit Sept. 27 Veteran Stand Down The Veteran Stand Down is a community initiative designed to provide essential services and resources for veterans, organized by the Department of Veteran Affairs in partnership with local organizations. This event typically features a variety of services, including haircuts, clothing distribution, food assistance and valuable information on housing and job opportunities, all aimed at supporting veterans in their transition back to civilian life. Held in the 4H Building, the Veteran Stand Down is offered free of charge to all veterans. More information is available at Oct. 3-4 '90s Flannel Fest '90s Flannel Fest is an exciting outdoor music festival celebrating the iconic sounds of 1990s alternative and grunge music, featuring some of the Northwest's most impressive tribute bands. The lineup includes acts honoring popular bands such as Sublime, Alice in Chains, Alanis Morissette, Nirvana, Foo Fighters, R.E.M., The Cranberries, Tool, No Doubt, Green Day and Stone Temple Pilots. With options for overnight camping and VIP sections, attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy live performances with hundreds of fellow music enthusiasts; for additional details, visit Oct. 9-12 WA Cutting Horse Fall Show Saddle up for a cutting-edge display of precision and skill at the Washington Cutting Horse Show, hosted by the esteemed Washington Cutting Horse Association. Get ready to witness the artistry of riders and their cutting horses as they showcase breathtaking maneuvers and split-second decision-making at the Harwood Pavilion. Get ready for a weekend filled with excitement, fierce competition and the undeniable thrill of the chase. For more information visit Oct. 18-19 Team Challenge Prepare for an exhilarating competition at Team Challenge, a high-stakes barrel racing event set to take place at the Ardell Pavilion. Organized by the renowned Barrel Race producer Best of Barrels Only, this prestigious event showcases elite riders and their remarkable horses as they compete in one of the season's culminating races. For additional details, please visit Oct. 25 CBBRC NFR Winter Classic 5D Race The Columbia Basin Barrel Racing Club invites equestrian enthusiasts to experience the NFR Winter Classic 5D Race at 10 a.m., showcasing the exhilarating sport of barrel racing. Participants and their horses will navigate a challenging course, competing for prestigious honors while demonstrating their skill and speed. This exciting event, characterized by thunderous hooves and sharp turns, promises a captivating day for both veteran riders and newcomers alike, and further details can be found on the club's official website, Nov. 1 Moravida Festival The Moravida Festival, now in its fourth year, is set to take place11 a.m.-7 p.m. at the G.C. Fairgrounds, celebrating the essence of life through the lens of Dia de los Muertos traditions. This vibrant event promises an array of family-friendly activities, including live entertainment, interactive children's crafts, and a variety of food vendors showcasing diverse cuisines. Open to all attendees free of charge, the Moravida Festival invites the community to come together in a spirited observance of culture and creativity; for additional details, visit Nov. 14-16 NW Arena Champs 6.0 RC Car Races The NW Arena Champs 6.0 RC Car Races, organized by the Northwest Rage Tour, promises an exhilarating experience for spectators. This exciting event features high-speed RC car racing and is open to the public, with free admission for families and racing enthusiasts alike. To learn more about the event and to stay updated with upcoming details, interested individuals can visit
Yahoo
09-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Grant Co. Fairgrounds has urgent need of seasonal staff
May 9—MOSES LAKE — The Grant County Fairgrounds is calling for immediate applications for seasonal positions as the county prepares for its busy fair season. Fairgrounds Director Jim McKiernan said the organization typically hires four to six seasonal workers each year to help manage the increased workload but has encountered significant challenges in filling these roles for the upcoming season. "This year has been particularly tough for us," said McKiernan. "We usually start hiring in March, and while we've successfully filled our office positions, our search for outside crew members has not been fruitful." Despite receiving a few applications, none have progressed, leaving the fairgrounds at risk of not being fully staffed for the crucial period leading up to the fair. The available positions offer a wage of $20.25 per hour for a guaranteed 40 hours a week, with potential overtime for up to five months. Applicants must be 18 years of age or older. However, McKiernan conveyed that filling these roles is essential not just for the operation of the fairgrounds but for the well-being of the current staff. "My crew is already stretched thin, working seven days a week, twelve-hour days during the fair and the week before," he said. "If we don't hire additional seasonal staff, we may not be able to manage the events we have scheduled." The seasonal roles include outdoor maintenance and preparations, encompassing tasks such as event setup, landscaping and custodial duties. "We're looking for individuals who are willing to work and can lift 50 pounds," McKiernan said. "The job involves physical labor, including tasks like cleaning and maintenance, which are vital for the smooth operation of events." With the fair approaching rapidly, McKiernan advised potential applicants to visit the Grant County government website, where they can find the job postings and submit their applications. "We need people who are ready to contribute to our community and help us create a successful fair experience," he said. As the clock ticks down to the fair, McKiernan remains hopeful that the outreach efforts to local colleges and the community will yield the required applicants. "This is a great opportunity for anyone looking to earn some extra money and gain hands-on experience working at the fairgrounds," he said. For those interested in applying, visit and fill out an application.
