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Masks could become the new classroom accessory

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MASKS: Principal Sean Coffey says students may have to wear masks when returning to The Sem. Photo: Michelle Cooper Galvin

By Michelle Crean

Masks may become a whole new look at one Killarney secondary school as staff look at ways to safely return students and staff to classrooms.

Principal of St Brendan's College, Sean Coffey, this week told the Killarney Advertiser that he's currently working through the guidelines and is looking at ways to ensure one metre distancing can be maintained in the school for the 760 students and 85 staff.

"The emphasis is to get the schools reopened," Sean said. "We're planning a staggered return for the students and are currently finalising dates. In terms of the one metre distancing we're currently looking at the school building and how we can reconfigure it. A lot of those rooms are small."

He explained that using the bigger spaces such as the hall for classes will have an impact on the students social gathering areas.

"We're looking at masks or visors for staff and students as a last gasp if no other solution is possible."

Other changes coming down the line include parents making appointments and not dropping in, sanitisation at entry and exit points outside each classroom, the upgrading to sensor taps in the bathrooms to minimise touch in staff and student facilities.

"We're looking at lockers, social gathering of staff in the staff room bringing that down to 10, the bathrooms will have to be monitored with a tracing list.

"This will all have to be done in four weeks," Sean said. "But the overall aim is to make it work."

What teaching staff have really leaned in recent months is the importance of face to face contact.

Well-being will be a central focus for all staff and students, he added.

"We'll find solutions. The time is right and reopening is a priority."

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Deenagh Lodge to host Alzheimer’s Memory Walk

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Killarney National Park will serve as the venue for this year’s Kerry Alzheimer’s Memory Walk on Sunday, September 20.

Participants will gather at the Deenagh Lodge ahead of an 11.00am start to complete a 5km scenic route through the park.

The event takes place on the eve of World Alzheimer’s Day as part of a nationwide series of walks supported by Aviva.


Now in its seventh year, the initiative raises vital funds for The Alzheimer Society of Ireland to support local dementia services, including daycare centres, family carer training, social clubs, dementia cafés, and the national helpline.

Last year, nearly 3,000 walkers across Ireland raised over €240,000 for the cause.


The Kerry walk will be led by local champions Kathriona Sheehan, Niamh Murphy, Lynda Phillips, and Melissa Molyneaux, who are walking in support of all those living with dementia.
“We are proud to lead our annual Alzheimer’s Memory Walk supported by Aviva to help fund local dementia services in Kerry,” they said. “The event is about community and helping spread awareness by walking together to raise vital funds for care, support, and hope for the days ahead. Join us in Killarney on Sunday, 20th September to show your support.”


With over 40 walks scheduled across Ireland, members of the public can walk in memory of a loved one or to show solidarity. Further details and registration are available at memorywalk.ie.

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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 […]

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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.

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