The parent’s council of Lissivigeen National School is urging community support for its new fundraising initiative, a Sensory Garden Raffle, aimed at developing a dedicated sensory garden and inclusive play area for all pupils.

The project is being driven by the school’s Special Class staff and the Parents Association, who are working hard to make the facility a reality.

The school’s Student Council members and two dedicated SNAs (Special Needs Assistants) were recently delighted to officially launch the raffle.

Every ticket purchased will contribute directly to creating this special space, which will provide a calm, stimulating environment for children to explore, learn, and grow, particularly benefiting those with additional sensory needs.

Marie Carroll-O’Sullivan, photographer and SNA at Lissivigeen National School stressed the importance of the project. “We are fundraising hard for a sensory garden for all children. It would mean so much to our children to have this facility at school and the Parents Association have been fantastic in raising as much funds as they can, so every little bit helps.”

The Parents Association is encouraging all members of the community to support the raffle by purchasing tickets, spreading the word, or sharing the details online.

Tickets are priced at €10 each or 3 for €20. They are available to buy from the school office or online at www.idonate.ie/raffle/LissivigeenNationalSchoolRaffle. The draw will take place on Friday, December 5th, 2025.


Sensory Garden Raffle Prizes

Prize PositionPrize Details
1st PrizeTwo-night stay in the 5-Star Hayfield Manor
2nd Prize€720 Fota Island Resort Gift Voucher
3rd Prize€500 Centre Parcs Voucher
4th PrizeTwo-night stay at Nadur Glamping Pods
Bonus

vent

An evening focusing on inspiration and mental health drew a large audience to the Killarney Avenue Hotel last week.

John Lonergan, the former Governor of Mountjoy Prison, delivered a powerful talk titled “Mental Health and Well-being – Reflections from his Life and Work.”

The event was hosted by Torc Community and Family Resource Centre (CFRC), in partnership with its Social Prescribing Service, which is supported by the HSE. Attendees from across the Killarney area gathered to hear Lonergan’s insights.
Lonergan’s address blended humour, warmth, and deep humanity as he shared key lessons learned throughout his long career in the Irish Prison Service and his ongoing community work. He spoke candidly about the mental health issues faced by inmates, emphasising the necessity of empathy, understanding, and resilience—lessons he noted apply to everyone’s daily life.

“Happiness and contentment aren’t about what we own or achieve — they’re about our relationships, our sense of purpose, and the kindness we show to others,” Lonergan stated, drawing on decades of experience supporting vulnerable people.
The audience praised the evening as both informative and entertaining, highlighting Lonergan’s ability to link real-life stories to broader reflections on personal well-being and social responsibility.

Derek O’Leary, Manager of Torc CFRC, spoke following the event: “We were delighted to host John Lonergan once again for what was a truly memorable evening. His message about empathy, resilience and connection resonates deeply with our work at Torc CFRC and within our Social Prescribing Service, where we support individuals to enhance their well-being and strengthen their sense of community.”

The event is part of Torc CFRC’s continuous commitment to promoting mental health awareness, social inclusion, and community engagement throughout Killarney and the wider region