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Rathmore student honoured as top young leader

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A fifth-year student from Scoil Phobail Sliabh Luachra has been named as one of just 20 teenagers from across Ireland to receive a prestigious Rotary Youth Leadership Development certificate.

Tommy O’Connor, a resident of Rathmore, was presented with the award at Europe House in Dublin following a competition that has been run by Rotary Ireland for over three decades. The programme rewards young people who show clear leadership potential through their community work and extra-curricular activities.
As part of his prize, Tommy took part in an all-expenses-paid trip to Belfast, Dublin, and Strasbourg. The itinerary included a tour of Stormont, visits to the Dáil and Seanad, and a private tour of the European Court of Human Rights. The highlight of the journey was a visit to the European Parliament in Strasbourg, where the group was welcomed by President Roberta Metsola and participated in "Euroscola," a simulation of how MEPs debate and vote on EU policy.
Tommy is already a well-known figure in local community circles. He is an active member of Kerry Comhairle na nÓg and the youth branch of the Rathmore Social Action Group, where he assists with local gardening, painting projects, and visiting the Rathmore Day Care Centre. He has also been a central figure in local fundraising efforts for those affected by conflict in Gaza, Ukraine, and Somalia.
A talented performer, Tommy has been a member of the Killarney Musical Society for four years, appearing in local productions of Evita and All Shook Up.
Tommy said the week provided a unique insight into how politics affects daily life. "I have learned so much about the functions of each parliament, but I also learned more about myself as a person," he said. "The highlight for me was meeting fellow teenagers from all over the island and making what I believe will be lifelong friends."

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Eric Jenkinson wins camera club award with Dingle landscape

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Eric Jenkinson wins camera club award with Dingle landscape


The stunning landscapes of Kerry continue to inspire members of the Killarney Camera Club, with this month’s themed competition, titled “Kerry Landscape,” producing a high standard of entries.


Following last week’s feature on the unrestricted category winner, Noel O’Neill, this week showcases the winning photograph in the Novice Category by Eric Jenkinson.
His striking photograph, titled “Wild Atlantic Way,” impressed the judges with its colour, composition, and sense of place. The image captures the rugged beauty of the Dingle Peninsula, featuring Clogher Beach in the foreground and the iconic Three Sisters landmarks in the background.
Eric’s success highlights his photographic talent and his appreciation of the county’s natural scenery along the Wild Atlantic Way coastline.

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End of an era as Killarney dentist Brendan Coffey retires

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End of an era as Killarney dentist Brendan Coffey retires


It marks the end of an era for local dentistry as Brendan Coffey prepares to retire after a 38-year career in Killarney.


Brendan returned from England in 1988, buying a house on New Street from Paddy Doyle and converting it into the Killarney Dental Clinic. The practice officially opened its doors on Friday May 13, 1988.
“As I had started the surgery from scratch, I had no idea when or if my first patient would come,” Brendan said. “I didn’t have to wait long, my neighbour Johnny Healy from Healy’s shop in New Street arrived first thing and gave me my start.”
In a fitting completion of the circle, Johnny is booked in as Brendan’s final patient on Wednesday of this week.
Brendan thanked the community and his former colleagues. “The people of Killarney and all around have been the most wonderful, loyal, and friendly people to have met and have the privilege to treat for the last 38 years,” he said. “I would like to give special mention to my wife Brenda, who acted as a hugely popular practice manager for many years.”
In October 2022, Brendan’s son Jack and his wife Emma took over the practice before expanding the business to a state-of-the-art facility at the Reeks Gateway.
“I feel a huge sense of satisfaction and pride in what the practice has become,” Brendan added. “So, I will sign off by saying: easy on the sweets, give up the fags, and don’t eat for two hours.”
See next week’s Killarney Advertiser for a full story on Brendan’s career.

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