News
New bench encourages kids to be kind
NEW KINDNESS BENCH: Gaelscoil Faithleann pupils sitting on their new 'Kindness Bench' that has been installed in the school. Pictured from left: James O'Conchur Pleamon, Conor O'Randal, Lily Ni She, Dearbhla Ni Chonaill and Rory Salvador. Picture: Eamonn Keogh
By Michelle Crean
The importance of friendship and kindness is the focal point of a new bench installed in one local school this week.
The Parents Council at Gaelscoil Faithleann organised a kindness bench with the message ‘Is fearr cairde ná ór’ – ‘friends are better than gold’ written across it, to remind all in the school to be kind to each other.
“We are delighted to have this bench here – it is a focal point with a strong reminder that we all need, of the importance of friends and kindness,” Chair of the Parents Council, Mary Carroll, said. “Children learn so much each day in school, but one of the most important messages for all of us is that if you can be anything in this world, be kind.”
The production of the bench was a team effort over the summer, turning it into a work of art with a message. Coupled with this, the Gaelscoil this week had a very interesting parents talk on cyber safety and behaviour online from the ‘Children of the Digital Age’ group, and according to Mary the message there was to behave online as you would in the real world – be kind in both.
“It was an amazing talk by Children of the Digital Age, with the large attendance of parents given stark insights and information into the digital world by Jason O’Mahony. He said that the biggest danger online is ourselves, and our belief that we are in control and safe. We download lots of free Apps – but there is nothing free and these Apps can garner a lot of information about us which is sold onto third parties.”
Mary added that one of the most interesting aspects of his talk that sets it apart from other cyber safety talks, was his discussion on the psychology of our online behaviour.
“We heard that the impacts of social media on young people are huge as they are looking at unrealistic lives and it has been shown that the more image based Apps they are exposed to the more comparisons they make with themselves. Communication is key – talking to your children and making sure they can come to you about anything they see online is most important.”
Green light for Torc Dinis walkway
Planning approval has been granted for a long-awaited lakeside walkway and cycleway connecting Torc and Dinis inside Killarney National Park.
An Coimisiún Pleanála confirmed permission for the elevated platform project, which will complete the popular scenic loop while removing a dangerous 800-metre section along the busy N71 Killarney to Kenmare road.
Walkers and cyclists currently have to navigate narrow bends alongside heavy vehicular traffic and tour buses to complete the circuit between the Dinis and Torc car parks.
Mayor of Killarney John O’Donoghue welcomed the decision, calling it a transformative development for the region: “Since beginning in the Council in 2021, this has been one of my priorities as an issue I inherited from my predecessor Michael Gleeson, he being the first person to initially pursue the idea. I have repeatedly kept it on the agenda at Council meetings and now delighted to see we finally have positive news as this decision, which has been long overdue and eagerly awaited, will prove transformative for the area.”
Mayor O’Donoghue added: “The path, which will be on the lakeside, will offer views to rival those anywhere in the world and I have no doubt will prove very popular with locals and visitors alike. Huge credit is due to Kerry County Council and the NPWS for their co-operation on the issue. Once the decision has passed through its statutory waiting period, the design and tender stage can begin.”
The project, which will be built on a raised platform to protect the natural habitat beneath, will also be fully accessible for people with mobility issues. Killarney Chamber of Tourism and Commerce also welcomed the green light, noting that the completed loop will create a major safe attraction showcasing Muckross Lake, Dinis Cottage, and the Old Weir Bridge.
LAKESIDE PATH: An Coimisiún Pleanála has approved planning permission for a new raised walkway and cycleway connecting Torc and Dinis in Killarney National Park.
LOCAL GOLD: Terrie O’Shea, founder and owner of Killarney-based business Sorella Berries, celebrating her Gold award win at the Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards held in Dingle last week. Her hand-crafted chocolate covered strawberries secured the top spot in national competition, earning recognition for the local food producer on the national stage.
Green light for Torc to Dinis walkway
Green light for Torc Dinis walkway Planning approval has been granted for a long-awaited lakeside walkway and cycleway connecting Torc...
LOCAL GOLD:
LOCAL GOLD: Terrie O’Shea, founder and owner of Killarney-based business Sorella Berries, celebrating her Gold award win at the Blas...
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