News
Head Chef named Irish ambassador for Fair Kitchens
By Michelle Crean
The Head Chef of a popular Killarney hotel has been appointed as the Irish ambassador of a global food movement which seeks to drive change in the industry.
Chad Byrne, who works in the Brehon Hotel, is thrilled to lead the new role for Fair Kitchens to help change in the food and hospitality industry.
"The movement optimises what I value. Change by demonstrating a healthier culture makes for a healthier business, creating a fairer and more inclusive workplace to attract and retain talent for today and the future," Chad told the Killarney Advertiser.
"It's an honour that our kitchen policies have been noticed globally. Our retention rates with chefs at the Brehon, our work-life balance structure, investing in our team to grow, and initiatives such as Chef Collab and County Cooking Championships has put us on the map," he said.
"But this is also a testament to our owners and our management who encourage these values, without them it's just not possible."
Chad explained that he got involved because he understands the importance of respect and inclusion in a kitchen.
"You get the best from those around you when you listen to their ideas, respect those ideas, and challenge in a positive way to be the best they can. Generally speaking, I've had a positive experience in my career. I've been lucky to work with, and learn from, some of the best in the business. And I've watched them and how they work with and lead their teams. If you invest your time and energy in others, they'll give it back to you in spades."
Energy and enthusiasm are the most important traits he looks for.
"What I look for in my kitchen is energy and enthusiasm so taking the time to make sure your staff are content is crucially important in keeping their loyalty. Work-life balance and having freedom to express yourself and encourage others, that's what Fair Kitchens is about - creating a workplace where everyone is respected, they can enjoy their jobs and are allowed to be the best they can."
Couples across the parish of Kilcummin gathered at Our Lady of Lourdes Church for a special celebration Mass honouring milestone wedding anniversaries.
The special service, celebrated by Fr Pat O’Donnell, brought together local couples celebrating 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, and 60 years of marriage. Each couple received a commemorative certificate in recognition of their decades of commitment and companionship.
Following the ceremony, the parish committee hosted a reception in the parish hall, where attendees enjoyed tea, home baking, and an opportunity to catch up with neighbours and family members.
Organisers extended their gratitude to Fr O’Donnell, the church committee, photographer Anne Holland, and all who helped arrange the celebratory event.
ANNIVERSARY MASS: Pictured at the Kilcummin wedding anniversary mass are (front row, left to right) Michael and Mary Dorrigan, Michael and Mary Moynihan, Marion and Timmy O’Keeffe, and Clare and Sean Moynihan; (second row) Robert and Ann Marie Keane, Paudie and Kate Cahill, Hann and Denny Donnelly, Sheila and Charlie O’Neill, and Maureen and Francis O’Doherty; (third row) Maura and Cornelius Brosnan, Joan and Jeremiah Desmond, Breda and Timmy O’Leary, Noreen and Patie Nagle, and Barry and Breda Duggan; with (back row) Willie and Breda Fleming, Mary and Noel Cronin, and Fr Pat O’Donnell. Photo: Anne Holland.
PEARL ANNIVERSARY: Clare and Sean Moynihan celebrating their 30th wedding anniversary at Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Kilcummin. Photo: Anne Holland.
GOLDEN JUBILEE: Marion and Timmy O’Keeffe marking 50 years of marriage during the parish anniversary celebrations in Kilcummin. Photo: Anne Holland.
RUBY CELEBRATION: Timmy and Breda O’Leary celebrating 40 years of marriage in Kilcummin. Photo: Anne Holland.
SAPPHIRE MILESTONE: Joan and Jeremiah Desmond celebrating 45 years of marriage at the anniversary Mass in Kilcummin. Photo: Anne Holland.
CORAL ANNIVERSARY: Robert and Anne Marie Keane marking 35 years of marriage at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Kilcummin. Photo: Anne Holland.
Killarney Plaza wins top golf hotel award
Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa has been named IGTOA Large Golf Hotel of the Year at the 29th National Golf Tourism Conference and Gala Irish Golf Awards.
Organised by the Irish Golf Tour Operators Association, the annual conference brings together golf operators, hotels, clubs, and industry partners from across Ireland. The awards ceremony took place during a black-tie gala evening at Ballygarry Estate Hotel and Spa, hosted by broadcaster Des Cahill.
The category winner was selected through votes cast by IGTOA tour operator members. Established in 1996, the association promotes Ireland as an international golfing destination.
Hotel management expressed gratitude to the tour operators, regional partners, and guests who supported the venue throughout the year. The hotel operates as part of the local O’Donoghue Ring Collection.
GOLF AWARD: Representing the Killarney Plaza Hotel and Spa, part of the O’Donoghue Ring Collection, Seán Howley (Group Business Development Manager), Brian Lawlor (Group General Manager), and Tomás O’Gorman (Guest Relations Manager) at the National Golf Tourism Conference
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