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Minister Ring confirms cancellation of 2020 TidyTowns competition

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Mr Michael Ring TD, the Minister for Rural and Community Development, has today (Tuesday) announced the cancellation of the TidyTowns competition for 2020 in the interests of public health and safety.

“For over 60 years the TidyTowns competition has captured the imagination of communities the length and breadth of the country,” he said.

“Generation after generation of local volunteers have given their time generously to make the TidyTowns competition the success it is today.

The whole ethos of the competition is that people come together within the community and work collaboratively to make their areas attractive and welcoming.  It involves people of all ages working together outdoors in groups to enhance the environment in which they work and live.

I know that many TidyTowns Committees have been wondering if the competition will proceed this year and I believe it is important to provide certainty to all of the committees around the country at this stage.

For me, the health and welfare of the volunteers on the TidyTowns Committees is paramount. Given the current restrictions around public gatherings, travel, and adherence to social distancing, it would not be appropriate to ask voluntary groups to work on TidyTowns projects in their communities at this time. I have therefore decided that the TidyTowns competition will not go ahead this year.”

He added that his department will look at initiatives, including through the use of social media, to help sustain and maintain the spirit and ethos of TidyTowns during these difficult times.

“Hopefully, if restrictions are eased, there may be an opportunity for the TidyTowns Committees to undertake some work when it is safe to do so and in a way that is manageable later in the year. But I want to stress, this will not form part of any competition for 2020.

In the meantime, I would urge all TidyTowns Committees to follow the advice of the HSE – stay at home, don’t travel except for essential purposes, and practice social distancing.

My Department will be contacting each group directly by letter advising them of the situation and the rationale for the decision.

Finally, I want to thank the main competition sponsors, SuperValu, for their understanding of the situation we find ourselves in at this time. I know that they, too, will look forward to being able to celebrate the return of the competition in 2021.”

 

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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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