Connect with us

News

Lack of clear approach leading to financial distress – Kerry TD

Published

on

Deputy Michael Healy-Rae has called on the newly appointed Minister for Higher Education, Innovation and Research, Simon Harris, to ensure a clear and consistent approach on the return to third level for students, at least during first semester is provided immediately.

“Many rural parents in particular are out of pocket putting down large deposits on accommodation which may not be needed due to the blended learning approach of colleges brought on by the COVID-19 crisis," he said this week.

"In some instances families who receive no grant support are being asked to pay a first instalment deposit of €4,100 by the beginning of August to secure accommodation, which may not actually be needed as some colleges will opt for an online approach which may see the student only attending the college one day a week.”

Due to the fact that many students have not been able to work, they are now once again over depending on their family for financial support.

“Parents will always do the very best that they can do for their children to attend college especially in rural areas. But at a time when accommodation has never been more difficult to source and never been more expensive, is it really fair to ask parents to pay for accommodation that they might only need for one night a week, while colleges are getting their COVID-19 return plans in place.”

“We need to have clear timetables and direction from all third level institutions on how they will deliver their learning to enable parents and students make informed decisions about accommodation. Currently many are being put through unneeded distress at a time when many may have already lost their jobs due to the COVID-19 crisis.”

Deputy Michael Healy-Rae hopes that the newly created Department for Higher Education, Innovation and Research gives this matter its full attention.

Advertisement

News

Gary Moynihan wins racecourse style title

Style reigned supreme at Killarney Racecourse as local resident Gary Moynihan and Offaly’s Sylwia Novak captured the top honours at the Canella Lane Best Dressed Day. Moynihan, a local neuromuscular […]

Published

on

Style reigned supreme at Killarney Racecourse as local resident Gary Moynihan and Offaly’s Sylwia Novak captured the top honours at the Canella Lane Best Dressed Day.

Moynihan, a local neuromuscular therapist, claimed Best Dressed Gentleman in a made-to-measure six-button burgundy double-breasted suit with a navy check from Saville Menswear in Cork. He completed the winning look with a shirt and paisley tie from Simply Suits Killarney and brown derby shoes from Pavers at the Killarney Outlet Centre.
Best Dressed Lady was awarded to Novak, a hospital personal assistant from Tullamore, who wore a red polka-dot ensemble and custom hat designed by milliner Rita Daly, featuring sustainable jewellery made from recycled plastic.
Canella Lane owner Ciana Aspell praised the high standard of fashion on the day, while Killarney Racecourse Manager Karl McCay thanked the sponsors and racegoers for their support.
With the summer season now wrapped up, the team at Killarney Racecourse is gearing up for the October Festival on October 4 and 5, featuring its first-ever Student Raceday with SPIN South West on the Monday. Early ticket booking is advised.

Continue Reading

News

Gleneagle Concert Band opens recruitment drive for new members

Published

on

By

The Gleneagle Concert Band is inviting new members of all ages to join the ensemble as it prepares for its new season starting this September.



Open to children, young people, and adults from Killarney and surrounding areas, the band offers specialist instrumental tuition starting from age nine. Beginners can take lessons in clarinet, flute, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, French horn, euphonium, tuba, percussion, and drums before progressing into the main band.

No previous experience is required for adults or children. The band also welcomes adults who already play an instrument or wish to return to music after a break.

“What makes Gleneagle special is that our musicians don’t just rehearse in a room and play the occasional concert,” said Music Development Officer Vincent Condon. “They perform at major events, festivals and community occasions, take part in film productions, travel internationally and, importantly, have fun together as a band. The band is open to everyone. We welcome young people who want to learn an instrument, as well as adults who have previous musical experience and would like to return to playing.”

For information on registration and lessons, contact 087 222 9513 or visit the band’s social media pages.

Busy summer of events


The Gleneagle Concert Band has concluded a busy 12 months featuring public performances, festival appearances, and charity work.

Highlights included the annual summer street concerts in Killarney town, along with performances at Puck Fair, the Rose of Tralee, and the Summer in Killarney Festival. Band members were also involved in the filming of Jimmy, an upcoming Hollywood biographical drama based on actor Jimmy Stewart.

Community fundraising remained a focus over the past year, with the band supporting local causes including the Kerry Stars Special Olympics Sports Club and Recovery Haven Kerry Cancer Support House alongside a sold-out Annual Concert.

Following a tour to Seville in 2025, the band has confirmed its next overseas trip to Bilbao and San Sebastián in northern Spain, scheduled for August 2027.

Continue Reading

Last News

Sport